I’ve used cannabis for years, and in most cases the effects of cannabis on me are wonderful, it helps me relax, unwind from a long workday, cannabis also helps me be more creative when I paint, play guitar, or write. At times, though, it has also had some negative effects on my mindset. There are occasions where I feel worried, anxious or nervous about things in my life after consuming cannabis. I’ve always wanted to know if it’s the THC itself (the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis) or if it’s my state of mind before consuming THC that makes me feel anxious. I’ve looked into it, and here is the best answer I can offer.
THC binds to specific receptors in the brain, primarily the CB1 receptors. For more detailed information from a neutral source, please see this article from the National Institute of Health. In short, CB1 receptors are responsible for cognition, memory and emotional regulations in the brain. When THC binds to CB1 receptors, it often leads to an increase in the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which can cause changes in perception, mood, and arousal. While many people enjoy the euphoric and relaxing effects of cannabis, others may experience feelings of anxiety or paranoia due to the increased activity in the brain. I've experienced all of the above.
The specific reasons why some people may experience anxiety or paranoia after using cannabis can vary, but it is most likely related to factors such as the person's genetics, prior experiences with cannabis, and the dose or potency of the cannabis consumed. Additionally, the environment in which cannabis is consumed can also play a role, as some people may feel more anxious or paranoid in social situations or unfamiliar surroundings. For me, it was the latter. I noticed that in most cases where I experienced feeling anxious were times when I was already worried about a work deadline, or about a social interaction that I had, or worrying about my Mom coming to my house while I happened to be high, etc.
But I am fortunate enough to have a relatively healthy mental wellbeing, and that is not the case for everyone.
In some cases, individuals who have preexisting mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, may be more prone to experiencing negative effects from cannabis use. It's worth noting that these negative effects are generally temporary and will often subside as the effects of the THC wear off. However, in rare cases, some people may experience longer lasting or more severe symptoms. If you think you may have a pre-existing mental condition please be very careful with consuming cannabis, start slow, give your mind time to react.
A dear friend of mine in college had a rare condition called cystic fibrosis which did not allow him to smoke cannabis, so he tried edibles instead. The first time he tried edibles he consumed way too much because he didn’t have the proper guidance, these were the old days of gray markets and no regulatory oversight. The effect that the overconsumption of edible THC had on my friend was unforgettable. He locked himself in a room out of fear that his roommates were trying to harm him, he stayed in there for hours and vowed to never consume THC edibles again. I’m happy to announce that he did eventually try edibles again. This time, in a much more measured dose and with help from his loved ones, he thoroughly enjoyed the experiences from there on out.
If you take nothing else away from reading this post, I would like you to consider that overall, while cannabis can have many positive effects on mood and perception, it's important for individuals to be aware of their own personal reactions and to consume cannabis in a safe and responsible manner. Start slow, be careful, and enjoy the ride!
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