Treating Cannabis-Induced Psychosis
What Is Cannabis-Induced Psychosis?
Cannabis is one of the most commonly used drugs globally, and its use has been associated with several psychiatric disorders. One of these disorders is cannabis-induced psychosis, which is a severe mental health condition that can occur after using cannabis. Cannabis-induced psychosis is a rare condition that affects a small percentage of cannabis users, but it can be a serious and debilitating condition for those who experience it.
Cannabis-induced psychosis can cause symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. The symptoms can be severe and can interfere with a person’s ability to function. Cannabis-induced psychosis can occur after using cannabis for a short period or long-term use.
There are two types of cannabis-induced psychosis we can help with at our mental health treatment centers:
- Acute cannabis-induced psychosis: This type of psychosis occurs after using high doses of cannabis and usually lasts for a few days to a few weeks. The symptoms usually go away once the cannabis use is discontinued and the substance has fully left the system. Acute cannabis-induced psychosis can occur in people who have never experienced psychosis before.
- Chronic cannabis-induced psychosis: This type of psychosis occurs after long-term use of cannabis and can last for several months or even years. The symptoms are usually more severe than acute cannabis-induced psychosis, and they may not go away even after the cannabis use is discontinued. Chronic cannabis-induced psychosis is more likely to occur in people who have a history of mental health problems or who have used cannabis for a long time.
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Causes of Cannabis-Induced Psychosis
The exact cause of cannabis-induced psychosis is not known. However, research suggests that it may be due to the interaction between cannabis and the brain’s neurotransmitters. THC, the main psychoactive component of cannabis, can affect the levels of dopamine in the brain, which can lead to the symptoms of psychosis.
Other factors that may contribute to the development of cannabis-induced psychosis include:
- Genetics: Some people may be more susceptible to psychosis due to their genetic makeup.
- Age: Cannabis use during adolescence may increase the risk of developing psychosis.
- Mental health conditions: People with a history of mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety may be more likely to develop cannabis-induced psychosis.
Symptoms of Cannabis-Induced Psychosis
The symptoms of cannabis-induced psychosis can be very distressing for the person experiencing them and for their loved ones. The severity of the symptoms can vary from person to person, and some people experience them more intensely than others. Symptoms of cannabis-induced psychosis can include:
- Hallucinations: Seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there.
- Delusions: Believing things that are not true, such as that someone is out to get them or that they have special powers.
- Disorganized thinking: Difficulty organizing thoughts or making sense of information.
- Paranoia: Feeling that people are watching or following them.
- Agitation: Feeling restless or agitated.
- Confusion: Difficulty understanding or following conversations.
- Anxiety: Feeling worried or tense.
- Depression: Feeling sad or hopeless.
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Treatment for Cannabis-INduced Psychosis
The first step in treating cannabis-induced psychosis is to stop using cannabis. This can help to reduce the symptoms and prevent further episodes of psychosis. People who have developed cannabis-induced psychosis may find it difficult to stop using cannabis, and they may need support from a healthcare professional. It is important to get help as soon as possible to prevent the symptoms from getting worse and to improve the chances of recovery.
Treatment options for cannabis-induced psychosis at our Orange County mental health facility include:
- Medications: Medications such as antipsychotics may be prescribed to manage the symptoms of psychosis. These medications can help to reduce hallucinations, delusions, and other symptoms of psychosis. However, they can have side effects, and people may need to try several different medications before finding one that works for them.
- Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy can help to manage symptoms and prevent relapse. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that can be effective in treating psychosis. CBT can help people to understand their symptoms and develop strategies to manage them.
Get Help for Cannabis-Induced Psychosis at Our Luxury Mental Health Facility
People who have developed cannabis-induced psychosis may find it difficult to seek help due to stigma or fear of legal consequences. However, it is essential to remember that cannabis-induced psychosis is a mental health condition that requires treatment, and seeking help is the first step towards recovery.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of cannabis-induced psychosis, it is essential to seek help from a mental health professional who can provide a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options. At our luxury mental health treatment centers, we specialize in treating psychosis and have experts ready to help you. Give us a call today
Sources
NBC News. (2024). High-potency marijuana highlights the risk of cannabis-induced psychiatric disorders.
Child Mind Institute. (2023). Marijuana and Psychosis.
American Journal of Psychiatry. (2022). Cannabis and Psychosis: Recent Epidemiological Findings Continuing the “Causality Debate”
Clinically Reviewed by Cole Dyar, MS, LAADC, PhD Candidate
Executive Director of Neurish Wellness
Cole holds a degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz in sociology and is a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC) as recognized by CCAPP. Cole holds a Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, including Organizational Leadership and Design, and a Post-Masters in General Marriage and Family Therapy.
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FAQs About Cannabis-Induced Psychosis
What is cannabis-induced psychosis?
Cannabis-induced psychosis refers to the manifestation of cannabis-induced psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions. These symptoms can be severe and may require medical intervention.
What are psychotic symptoms?
Psychotic symptoms include hallucinations, where individuals perceive things that are not there, and delusions, which are false beliefs despite evidence to the contrary. In the context of cannabis-induced psychosis, these symptoms can be transient or persist for a longer duration.
Who is at risk of experiencing cannabis-induced psychosis?
Cannabis users, particularly those who consume large amounts of the drug or have a preexisting vulnerability to mental health issues, are at an increased risk. Factors such as untreated mental illness, family history of psychotic disorders, and substance abuse can also heighten the risk.
What role does untreated mental illness play in cannabis-induced psychosis?
Untreated mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, can make individuals more susceptible to experiencing psychosis after cannabis consumption. It’s important for individuals with mental health conditions to seek proper treatment and avoid substance abuse.
Is cannabis consumption a risk factor for developing psychosis?
Yes, cannabis consumption, especially in high doses or frequent use, is considered a risk factor for developing psychosis. This risk is particularly significant among individuals with a history of mental health issues or a family history of psychotic disorders.
How does cannabis abuse contribute to the development of psychotic disorders?
Abusing cannabis can disrupt brain function and exacerbate underlying mental health conditions, potentially leading to the onset of psychotic disorders. Chronic cannabis abuse can also increase the severity and frequency of psychotic symptoms.
Are there specific groups of individuals more vulnerable to cannabis-induced psychosis?
Yes, individuals with a family history of psychotic disorders, those diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and heavy cannabis users are among the groups more vulnerable to experiencing cannabis-induced psychosis.
Can cannabis-induced psychosis be prevented?
Prevention strategies include avoiding excessive cannabis consumption, especially for individuals with a history of mental health issues or substance abuse. Seeking timely mental health services and addressing underlying mental health conditions can also reduce the risk.
How can one differentiate between cannabis-induced psychosis and other mental health conditions?
It can be challenging to differentiate between cannabis-induced psychosis and other mental health conditions. A thorough evaluation by a qualified mental health professional is necessary to accurately diagnose and treat the condition.
What mental health services are available for individuals experiencing cannabis-induced psychosis?
There are various mental health services available, including counseling, therapy, and psychiatric treatment, tailored to the individual’s needs. Early intervention and support are crucial in managing cannabis-induced psychosis and promoting recovery.