Short answer: cannabis may feel relaxing in the moment, but regular use, especially of high-THC products, is linked to worse anxiety, depression and sleep over time, and to a higher risk of psychosis in young people and those with a family history. Being open about use helps your psychiatrist treat you well.
Anxiety and panic
Low doses can feel calming, but higher THC doses commonly trigger anxiety, racing heart and panic. Daily users often feel more anxious between uses.
Depression and motivation
Heavy use is associated with low motivation and depression, and it can make antidepressant treatment less effective.
Sleep
Cannabis can help people fall asleep at first, but it changes sleep quality. Stopping often brings a few weeks of poor sleep and vivid dreams, which is one reason people find it hard to quit.
Psychosis risk
Frequent use of high-potency THC, especially in the teens and early twenties, is linked to a higher risk of psychotic disorders. Warning signs include paranoia, hearing things others do not, or unusual beliefs. These need prompt evaluation.
Cannabis use disorder
- Using more or longer than intended
- Cravings and failed attempts to cut back
- Irritability, poor sleep and low appetite when stopping
- Use continuing despite problems at school, work or home
Potency has changed
Today’s cannabis products, especially concentrates, vapes and edibles, often contain far more THC than products from decades ago. Edibles can take one to two hours to take effect, which leads some people to take more and end up with severe anxiety or panic. Knowing the THC content and starting low matters if you do use.
Teens and young adults
The brain continues developing into the mid-twenties. Regular cannabis use during this period is associated with effects on attention, memory and motivation, and with higher risks of depression, anxiety and psychosis. Parents who notice a teen’s grades slipping, withdrawal or unusual thinking alongside cannabis use should seek an evaluation.
Cutting back
If you decide to cut back or stop, expect a few weeks of irritability, poor sleep and vivid dreams. Planning for these, with better sleep habits, exercise and support for anxiety, makes success more likely. Your psychiatrist can help treat underlying conditions that cannabis was being used to manage.
Frequently asked questions
Is CBD the same?
CBD does not cause a high and has a different profile, but product quality varies and it can interact with medications. Tell your psychiatrist if you use it.
Can I be treated without quitting completely?
Yes. Many people start by cutting back while working on anxiety, sleep or depression with their psychiatrist.
Psych Boston offers non-judgmental psychiatric evaluations for teens and adults in Lexington and by telehealth. Request an appointment.
Related reading: School Refusal and Anxiety in Children: A Parent’s Guide · CBT for Insomnia vs Sleep Medication: Which Is Better?
This article is general information, not medical advice. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 or call 911. Psych Boston is an outpatient psychiatry practice at 35 Bedford St #17, Lexington, MA781-218-9550).