Cannabis is often associated with its relaxing properties, however, for some people it can have an adverse effect, leading to paranoia.
In this guide, we’ll be explaining how cannabis can cause paranoia and why some individuals may be more affected than others.
What is Paranoia?
To begin with, it’s important to know what paranoia is. In this context, paranoia is the unfounded or excessive suspicion and fear of other people.
For example, a paranoid individual may believe that people are watching them, following them or trying to harm them in some way.
How Does Cannabis Cause Paranoia?
Experts have found that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) contributes to cannabis-related paranoia. Find out more about our cannabis addiction treatment.
When cannabis is used, the psychoactive compounds including THC bind to the endocannabinoid receptors in various parts of the brain – including the amygdala.
The amygdala is responsible for regulating human responses to fear and is associated with emotions such as anxiety, stress and – you guessed it – paranoia.
When individuals use THC rich cannabis, the brain is suddenly flooded with more cannabinoids than normal. Research suggests that this increase in cannabinoids can overstimulate the amygdala, leading to feelings of fear, anxiety and paranoia.
This also helps to explain why cannabidiol (CBD) products that don’t directly bind to the endocannabinoid receptors don’t cause paranoia.
Are Some People More Prone to Cannabis-Related Paranoia?
Not everyone who uses cannabis experiences paranoia and some people are more likely to experience it than others.
Although there is no single reason as to why, there are a few factors which can contribute to the likelihood of an individual experiencing cannabis-related paranoia.
Genetics
According to a study on animals in 2019, scientists found that cannabis typically produces positive effects such as relaxation and a decrease in anxiety when it stimulates the front region of the brain more than other parts.
Authors of the study suggest that this is to do with the great number of reward-producing opioid receptors located in the front of the brain.
However, if the back part of the brain receives greater stimulation, you can experience adverse effects including anxiety and paranoia.
THC Levels
Using marijuana that has a higher THC content can also contribute to feelings of paranoia and other feelings of negativity.
In 2017, a study found that consuming 7.5mg of THC reduced negative feelings associated with stressful tasks, whereas a higher dose of 12.5mg had the opposite effect and increased those negative feelings.
The problem with this is that people who use cannabis regularly often become tolerant, so end up taking higher doses more frequently in order to achieve the same high, however, they can actually end up feeling worse.
Female Hormones
A study conducted in 2014 found that higher oestrogen levels contributed to an increase in cannabis sensitivity by as much as 30 percent and a lower tolerance for marijuana.
This means that females are likely to be more sensitive to both the positive and negative effects of marijuana.
How to Manage Cannabis-Related Paranoia
If you experience paranoia when you use cannabis, there are a few things you can do to relieve this.
Stop Using Cannabis
Of course, the first tip is to stop using cannabis. If the negative feelings outweigh the positive effects of the drug every time you use it, it is best to stop.
If you find yourself feeling paranoid after using cannabis, try doing things that relax you, such as listening to calming music, yoga or taking a warm bath.
You can also try deep breathing exercises such as alternate nostril breathing. This involves holding one side of your nose closed and slowly breathing in and out several times before switching sides and repeating.
Use Less at a Time
If you still wish to use cannabis for its positive effects but don’t want to experience paranoia, you should try to decrease the amount you consume, taking lower doses, less frequently.
Get Professional Support for Anxiety and Paranoia
Evidence suggests that people with existing mental health issues such as psychosis, schizophrenia, anxiety and paranoia have a higher chance of exacerbating these feelings when using cannabis.
One of the best ways to address this is by getting professional help from a therapist. They can help you to identify contributing factors and teach effective coping methods to help manage paranoia and anxiety in the moment.
Although cannabis may temporarily relieve anxiety, it doesn’t address underlying issues and can actually make mental health worse in the long term, especially if a cannabis addiction develops.
How to Recover from a Cannabis Addiction
If you currently experience paranoia as a result of cannabis use and find that you cannot stop, or if you are worried that you are at risk of developing a cannabis addiction, you can get treatment to help you recover.
Cannabis Addiction Treatment at Acquiesce
At Acquiesce rehabilitation, we provide a discreet, highly supported and safe environment within the community for you to recover in.
Without being hidden from the real world, our urban recovery model allows individuals to gain all the tools and experience necessary whilst maintaining a carefully monitored level of autonomy and responsibility over their own recovery.
This makes the transitional period from treatment a much smoother process, resulting in a more sustainable recovery journey at our detox clinic.
Our Cannabis Addiction Programme
Our core programme addresses the psychological, physical, spiritual and social effects of cannabis addiction. It is delivered by our highly trained and experienced team and incorporates the latest evidence based interventions, alternative therapies and activities.
Our programmes are designed to accommodate each individual’s existing commitments and responsibilities including family and work arrangements.
If you’re ready to recover, please do not hesitate to get in touch with a member of our friendly team at Acquiesce for a free, confidential and no judgement consultation.
