Why Weed Makes Some People Anxious
Pot is known as nature’s chill pill. In the media, stoners are portrayed as nonchalant, blissfully unaware, and often sprawled out on the couch. This prevailing stereotype has the science to back it too – studies show that cannabis smokers react less to stressful situations.
So why is it that some people end up having the exact opposite reaction?
We’ve all met at least one person who says that cannabis makes them anxious. Rather than feeling the relaxing and euphoric benefits of the plant, these people encounter anxiety, negative thoughts, and even paranoia.
While these effects aren’t typical, they’re also not uncommon. Understanding why these reactions occur and how to manage them when consuming cannabis can be a powerful tool to help mitigate fearful thoughts and put you (or someone you know) in a better mindset.
What is weed paranoia?
As the name suggests, marijuana paranoia is a state of mind where an individual has unfounded beliefs that their environment is unsafe after consuming cannabis. Paranoia is defined as hypervigilance or increased awareness of surroundings, inability to relax or trust others, and feeling as if there is hidden meaning in others’ behaviors. Someone who is experiencing paranoia may believe they are being watched or feel self-conscious about what others think. While it is common to have paranoid thoughts from time to time, certain substances (like cannabis) can cause an increase in these feelings.
How can cannabis cause paranoia?
Cannabis has a biphasic effect on some users. This means low and high doses produce the opposite effects. In other words, a small, controlled dose can ease someone’s mind, while consuming too much will may make them feel uneasy, restless, or untrusting. Alcohol has similar effects on people. A person may enjoy a good beer or two, but if they drink six, they become depressed or angry.
First-time users may be more prone to weed paranoia. If someone is unfamiliar with the feeling of being high or does not know what to expect, the disorientation can be very anxiety-provoking for them. Research also suggests that some people may be more prone to feeling anxious while stoned than others.
It depends on your brain chemistry.
Every year we are learning more about how cannabis reacts to our brain and body’s natural systems. This pioneering research may also be the key to understanding why some people feel anxious after smoking. In a new study, researchers found evidence that suggests our psychological reactions to weed depends on which part of our brain is activated most when consuming cannabis. The study, which used rats, found that if the front region of the brain was more sensitive to THC, it would produce more rewarding effects like joy and pleasure. On the other hand, if the back region of the brain was more sensitive to THC, it was more likely to produce negative reactions like fear and anxiety.
While there is still more to learn about these reactions in human subjects, this evidence points to a compelling explanation for weed paranoia.
Along with this, scientists have another likely answer for weed’s varying effects on users. We know that THC binds to our brain’s natural cannabinoids receptors. This causes our brain’s to release dopamine, serotonin, and GABA. For some users, this increased GABA and serotonin block norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter responsible for anxiety.
But for other people, this can have a rebound effect. Rather than calming them down, it stimulates activity in the region of the brain involved with arousal and excitation. The increased activity sends the sympathetic nervous system into overdrive, creating a rise in heart rate and cortisol.
In a cruel irony, the very people who could benefit the most from weed’s relaxing effects are often the ones who don’t feel them. Cannabis can often exacerbate one’s personality, so if you tend to lean more anxious than the average person – it’s likely that smoking can turn the dial-up on those traits.
What to do if you’re experiencing weed paranoia:
These feelings can be scary, but it’s important to realize they don’t last forever. If you or someone you know is experiencing negative effects from ingesting cannabis, try these 5 things to help calm their nerves.
Breathing exercises: Deep breathing is proven to lower stress levels, blood pressure, and heart rate. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try laying on the ground and focusing on a method called “box breathing. “This is where you breathe in counting to 4 slowly, hold your breath for 4 seconds, and then slowly exhale for 4 seconds. Repeat step until you feel re-centered.
Take CBD isolate: This may seem counterintuitive, but CBD can actually block the intoxicating effects of THC. If you are experiencing THC overconsumption, taking a high dose of CBD isolate can help.
Enjoy a meal: Drink plenty of water and have a meal to help slow down THC absorption.
Adjust your environment: High levels of THC can heighten your sensitivity to, well, everything. Find a comfortable place where you can dim the lights, turn off any loud music or T.V., and relax.
Phone a friend: When in doubt, call someone you are close with who can help ground you and provide words of reassurance.
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