Cannabis-Induced Hallucinations: Just a High, or a Sign of Something More Serious?
Why Cannabis-Induced Hallucinations Are an Important Reason to Learn the Right Way to Quit Cannabis
Cannabis and Its Effects on the Brain
Cannabis is a drug that directly affects the nervous system, with THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) as its main active compound. THC can stimulate the brain in ways similar to a neurotransmitter, producing feelings of intoxication, relaxation, or heightened enjoyment. However, for some people, cannabis use can lead to more severe symptoms, such as hallucinations and psychiatric disorders.
What Do Cannabis-Induced Hallucinations Look Like?
Hallucinations caused by cannabis use can vary from person to person, and may be temporary or become a permanent condition. Common symptoms include:
- Seeing or hearing things that aren’t there
- Paranoia, believing someone is trying to harm you
- Feeling followed or controlled
- Loss of ability to perceive reality
- Severe anxiety and panic
- Aggressive behavior or loss of self-control
These symptoms may occur after just a single use of cannabis, or as a result of continuous long-term use, which can lead to substance-induced psychosis, or trigger an existing psychiatric condition such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
Does Cannabis Increase the Risk of Psychiatric Disorders?
Medical studies have found that cannabis use, particularly in high doses or over a long period, can increase the risk of developing schizophrenia, especially among those with a family history of psychiatric conditions. Cannabis use may also cause depression, anxiety, and severe mood changes.
According to data from The ASAM Principles of Addiction Medicine, regular cannabis users may be 2–3 times more likely than the general population to develop psychosis, and are more likely to progress to schizophrenia if cannabis use continues.
How to Respond to Cannabis-Induced Hallucinations
If you or someone close to you experiences hallucinations after using cannabis, it’s important to respond correctly:
- Stop using cannabis immediately – continued use can worsen symptoms
- Stay in a safe environment – avoid places with triggers and stay with people you trust
- Drink water and rest – this helps the body recover from cannabis’s effects
- Seek help from a specialist – if symptoms are severe or persistent, see a psychiatrist or seek treatment at an addiction treatment center right away
How can a treatment center help you?
If you or someone close to you is experiencing cannabis-induced hallucinations, Day One Rehabilitation Center specializes in treating addiction and related mental health issues, with an experienced team of psychiatrists and psychologists and holistic treatment programs to help you recover and return to a normal life.
Cannabis-induced hallucinations may not just be a temporary high, they can be a sign of a serious psychiatric condition. If you or someone close to you is facing this issue, don’t wait. Seek guidance from a specialist. Day One Rehabilitation Center is ready to support you every step of the way.
Contact us for counseling and treatment
Phone: +66 64-645-5091, +66 64-645-5092
LINE: @dayone
Location: 99/1 Moo 6, Si Chula, Mueang Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Nayok 26000, Thailand (only a 1-hour drive from Bangkok)