Cannabis-Induced Psychosis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Types of Cannabis-Induced Psychosis

Cannabis-induced psychosis can appear in different forms, each with its own pattern and risk profile.  

• Acute type: Symptoms manifest following the consumption of cannabis and are usually controlled by non-consumption of cannabis.  

• Chronic type: Ongoing signs that persist from extended or chronic usage of cannabis.  

• Latent type: Use of cannabis brings to life latent psychosis already present in some individuals.  

• First episode type: Use of cannabis may lead to the onset of psychosis in already sensitive users.  

Repeated acute episodes may lead to chronic cannabis induced psychosis disorder if not addressed early.

THC Potency and Its Impact on Psychosis Risks  

The high concentration of THC can cause brain damage from uncontrolled dopamine excretion due to the extra activation of cannabinoid receptors. These increase the chances of being psychotic, especially among cannabis users or first-time users at a younger age. Many individuals seeking cannabis psychosis treatment report exposure to highly potent THC products.

Genetics Factors and Cannabis Psychosis  

THC is a psychoactive compound that may increase the likelihood of experiencing psychosis in people with mutations in the COMT and AKT1 genes. These genes affect dopamine balance in the body, and their alterations may make an individual more susceptible to THC.  In individuals with such mutations, cannabis induced psychosis can manifest even with mild use.

The Role of Family Mental Health History 

Familial mental disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar make an individual prone to cannabis psychosis. These genetic factors triad with THC factors, which is a strong reason for close supervision of cannabis usage among potential risk groups. When mental illness runs in the family, the chances of experiencing cannabis induced psychosis increase significantly.

Gene-Environment Interaction in Cannabis-Induced Psychosis

Genetic vulnerability alone doesn’t always trigger psychosis — it’s the interaction with environmental factors like stress, trauma, or early cannabis use that can increase the risk. When someone with a genetic predisposition is exposed to high-THC cannabis or stressful life events, the chances of developing psychosis become significantly higher. Understanding this connection is key to prevention.

Cannabis-Induced Psychosis Symptoms: Acute vs Chronic 

Acute symptoms only appear when cannabis is consumed. Chronic symptoms last for long and are due to prolonged exposure.  

Both acute and chronic symptoms are part of the broader range of cannabis induced psychosis signs and symptoms.

Acute Symptoms of Cannabis-Induced Psychosis 

Some of the symptoms that arise due to Cannabis-Induced Psychosis are: 

• A person experiencing cannabis induced psychosis may face mental turmoil in the form of sound and picture hallucinations.  

• Extreme paranoia and anxiety.  

• Disorganised speech.  

• Increased agitation and aggression.  

• Loss of reality. 

Chronic Symptoms and Long-Term Impacts 

Symptoms of Chronic Cannabis-Induced Psychosis are: 

• Constant hallucination and unrelenting paranoia.  

• Impaired cognition and memory.  

• Rapid changes in emotion.  

• Isolation.  

• Inability to function normally. 

Chronic sufferers often require long-term cannabis psychosis treatment and emotional support.

Age-Related Vulnerability to Cannabis-Induced Psychosis 

Due to a developing brain, younger people, especially teenagers, are highly impressionable to the effects of THC. Studies indicate that early cannabis use increases the risk of developing cannabis induced psychosis later in life.

Adolescent Brain Development and Increased Risk 

Decision making, emotional control and memory are permanently hampered because of mental development during formative years. Because of the high level of neuroplasticity, teenagers are highly sensitive to THC which significantly increases the chances of psychosis. Experts believe that early intervention can significantly support cannabis psychosis recovery in teens.

Why Young Adults Are More Susceptible 

Due to peer pressure, experimentation, and stress children face, they are more susceptible to using cannabis. Young brains are sensitive to THC, whereas its stronger counterparts are life-threatening. Immediate action in the form of educating and guiding them is crucial. 

Awareness about cannabis induced psychosis signs and symptoms can help prevent long-term consequences.

Cannabis-Induced Psychosis vs Schizophrenia: Key Differences 

While schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that requires specific treatment for an extended time, cannabis-induced psychosis can be cured with therapies aimed at substance-driven roots. The distinction is important in guiding appropriate cannabis psychosis treatment and recovery plans.

Distinguishing Cannabis-Induced Psychosis from Schizophrenia

Understanding the key differences between cannabis-induced psychosis and schizophrenia is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

• Aspect: Trigger
  - Cannabis Psychosis: Cannabis use
  - Schizophrenia: No specific external trigger
• Aspect: Duration
  - Cannabis Psychosis: Temporary, revolves around abstinence
  - Schizophrenia: Chronic, Long term
• Aspect: Treatment
  - Cannabis Psychosis: Abstinence with therapy
  - Schizophrenia: Comprehensive Psychiatric Care

Shared Symptoms and Diagnostic Criteria

Shared symptoms and diagnostic criteria can help differentiate cannabis-induced psychosis from schizophrenia in clinical assessments.

• Aspect: Hallucinations
  - Cannabis Psychosis: Common, often visual/auditory
  - Schizophrenia: Common, more persistent
• Aspect: Delusions
  - Cannabis Psychosis: Often substance-induced
  - Schizophrenia: Typically, more severe and chronic
• Aspect: Cognitive Impairment
  - Cannabis Psychosis: Short-term, resolves with abstinence
  - Schizophrenia: Long-term, progressive if untreated

Understanding these differences plays a key role in developing the right cannabis psychosis recovery strategy.

Cannabis Psychosis Treatment: Approaches and Recovery 

Abstinence, therapy, and medical care are combined for cannabis psychosis treatment for effective results. Chronic mental health problems must be avoided through early intervention. A personalised plan for cannabis psychosis treatment can make a big difference in long-term outcomes.

Immediate Medical Interventions for Cannabis-Induced Psychosis 

Timely medical interventions are crucial to stabilise acute episodes of cannabis-induced psychosis and prevent complications.

• Antipsychotics: Used to lessen acute symptoms. 

• Therapy: Provided to aid individuals in grasping triggers adeptly and identify coping mechanisms. 

• Support: Family engagement eases recovery. 

• Hospitalisation: Recommended to maintain safety and reduce risk. 

• Monitoring: Complete check-up on mental health to ensure reoccurrence does not take place. 

These are critical steps in effective cannabis psychosis recovery especially for severe cases.

Long-Term Treatment and Recovery Strategies

Long-term recovery from cannabis-induced psychosis relies on consistent care, supportive environments, and proactive strategies. 

• Lifestyle Changes: Least stressful conditions are encouraged. 

• Medical Supervision: Dealing with recurring symptoms while keeping them under strict control. 

• Support Discussion Groups: Providing help and guidance. 

• Preventative Measures: Keeping an eye out for early signs of relapse. 

Can Cannabis Cause Permanent Psychosis? 

For people prone to mental illness, cannabis poses a serious risk of developing persistent forms of mental illnesses. There are common situations where people ask: can cannabis cause psychosis, especially when symptoms persist.

Insights into Persistent Psychosis and Risk Factors 

Using cannabis at a younger age puts one at risk for using it aggressively as they age. This results into the use of supplements that contain high levels of THC. Family history increases chances of escape episodes which leads to strains close to schizophrenia. Hence the need for early diagnosis. 

Preventive Measures and Policy Considerations 

Effective prevention of cannabis-induced psychosis requires a mix of public education, policy action, and early intervention.

• Public Awareness: Putting people at risk for high THC benefits through education was a concern.  

• Regulations: They should restrict the amount of THC in cannabis products. 

• Youth Prevention Programs: Address the early use risks. 

• Research: Examine the association of cannabis use and mental health. 

• Healthcare Access: Encourage mental health treatment and proactive measures. 

Can Cannabis Withdrawal Cause Psychosis? 

Withdrawal effects vary, but they include anxiety, mood changes, sleep issues, and in extreme cases, psychosis. Chronic users who quit too quickly may have the worst experiences. Slowing down usage, with medical guidance, will lessen the schizophrenic tendencies during withdrawal. In some individuals, especially chronic users, can cannabis withdrawal cause psychosis is a valid concern requiring medical guidance.

Preventive Strategies for Cannabis-Induced Psychosis 

Early education, cannabis monitoring, as well as avoiding high THC-containing substances, are practical measures against psychosis cannabis-induced. These steps also answer the frequently asked question: Can cannabis cause psychosis or worsen mental health?

Avoiding High-Potency Cannabis 

Cutting back on high content THC strains is advocated since it greatly lowers psychosis chances. Switch to moderated levels of THC-CBD. The latter reduces the powers of THC. Knowing the strength reduces the chances of psychosis. Lowering THC intake has shown positive results in cannabis psychosis recovery and prevention.

Recognising Personal and Family Mental Health Risks 

Every person with a relative with a mental disorder should be careful in using cannabis. There is a high chance they have a genetic psychosis disposition to psychosis. Prevention starts by discussing with medical practitioners and understanding their mental health issues. 

Educating the Public on Safe Cannabis Use 

Public campaigns should work to target the dangers that may come with the use of cannabis and, especially, those that come with the use of over-potent products. Also, promoting mental health support systems can help better inform individuals of safe cannabis use. One of the main goals is to prevent individuals from asking, can cannabis withdrawal cause psychosis, after it’s too late.

Get Expert Help for Cannabis-Induced Psychosis at Cadabam's 

Cadabam's has a well-equipped hospital for the treatment of cannabis-induced psychosis. The use of a well-trained multidisciplinary team enables the use of many methods, such as therapy and rehabilitation, to treat Cadabam's. Consult now and get the guidance that is highly compassionate and thorough in approach. 

If you are searching for a solution to your problem, Cadabam’s Anunitha’s De-Addiction Centre can help you with its team of specialised experts. We have been helping thousands of people live healthier and happier lives for 30+ years. We leverage evidence-based approaches and holistic treatment methods to help individuals effectively manage Cannabis-Induced Psychosis. Get in touch with us today. You can call us at +91 96111 94949.

FAQs 

What is the difference between schizophrenia and cannabis-induced psychosis? 

Cannabis-induced psychosis often lasts for shorter amounts of time and is influenced by the consumption of cannabis. On the other hand, schizophrenia is a mental illness characterised by negative symptoms that include memories of delusions, hallucinations and may last forever. Such symptoms stem from biological or genetic reasons. 

Can cannabis-induced psychosis be reversed? 

Psychosis brought on by the influence of cannabis is highly reversible so long as the issue is diagnosed, treated and resolved at an early stage. 

 If the episode is long and recurrent, then medication combined with abstinence from cannabis usage and therapy is the best course of action. Long-term management may be required, on the other hand, to prevent possible effects. 

How do you know if you're going into psychosis? 

Being able to identify the disorder that creates deeper, severe issues is what leads to staying healthy. If left untreated, earlier stages of psychosis can lead to newer issues, which include paranoia, confusion, hallucinations or even an altered sense of reality. 

 It is without a doubt vital that one seek professional medical help as they see these symptoms come to fruition. Injuries that have previously remained untreated may feel detached or overly fearful. 

How long does cannabis-induced anxiety last? 

The use of marijuana can cause a distorted sense of fear and anxiety, which goes away after a couple of hours, but does increase along with withdrawal symptoms. 

Chronic use of the drug induces heavy anxiety, which can persist for a day or sometimes a week. Individual usage and mental health determine how fast a person can recover from anxiety.