Cannabis-Induced Psychosis: what is it?
Many people would argue that Cannabis has been good for them. Some might say it calms them down, it releases stress, anxiety, it makes them happy, confident, and it feels good. What isn’t spoken about enough is the long term effects this can have on your mind, body and soul. So what is Cannabis induced psychosis?
In short Cannabis induced psychosis clinically known as “cannabis-induced psychotic disorder” is a temporary psychotic episode that can occur after smoking cannabis.
This means experiencing hallucinations (seeing and hearing things that are not real), paranoia, delusions (false and irrational beliefs), feelings of being outside of the body and anxiety. Smoking excessive amounts of cannabis can cause these symptoms of psychosis. Whilst not everyone experience these symptoms as there are many factors that contributes, such as, genetics and a family history of mental health. With these risk factors, smoking cannabis can worsen mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, and schizophrenia.
It is so essential to be aware what you feed your body with and what you expose it to. Cannabis contains over 100 different compounds, the main ones are cannabinol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabidiol (THC). Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive component which can affect mood, memory, and perception due to its interaction with the brain. Ultimately this is what causes that “high” feeling that is associated with cannabis. Whereas, cannabidiol CBD is a non-psychoactive which is said to have therapeutic effects that helps anxiety and relief pain. It is not only important to know what goes into the body but it also important to raise awareness of what it does to the body. Most importantly the awareness on the significant impact this can have on young people.
There is a growing number of cannabis use amongst young people. Recent research found that adolescents are three and a half times more likely to become addicted to cannabis than adults. This could be a result of higher potency of cannabis over the years as THC content has increased, which can also lead to higher risks of psychosis. Often times teenagers smoke cannabis to have a good time with their friends, completely unaware of the risks. The, adolescence years is such a critical time for the brain to develop. Considering the brain is still developing up until mid 20s, the risk to young people can be significant. With excessive use of cannabis in teenage years, it may lead to impairments in memory, learning, and functioning. It can also impact the ability to regulate emotions, leading to difficulty in managing emotional responses and social interactions. Sometimes it only takes one try to become addicted. So, ask yourself is that one time really worth the risk?
The way cannabis affects people might be hard to acknowledge when these symptoms aren’t completely visible. With new knowledge it is much easier to identify triggers and warning signs. It is much easier to help and support the ones you love. I want to encourage every reader to take care of your body. 'Don’t you realise that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, '
1 Corinthians 6:19
Research related to this blog;
High potency cannabis linked to higher rates of psychosis | King's College London
