How Long Does Cannabis Induced Psychosis Last?

While marijuana is often deemed a relatively safe substance, it can have negative effects on both physical and mental well-being. One such consequence that has garnered attention from marijuana users lately is cannabis-induced psychosis.

How long does cannabis-induced psychosis last? In this article, we will learn about the duration of cannabis-induced psychosis, its symptoms, and the potential treatment options available.

If you or someone you know is suffering from cannabis-induced psychosis and experiencing a medical emergency, please contact your doctor and do not hesitate to reach out to emergency medical services.

Understanding Cannabis-Induced Psychosis

Cannabis-induced psychosis refers to the development of psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions, as a result of using marijuana. Hallucinations are sensory experiences that are not based in reality, while delusions are fixed, false beliefs. These symptoms can be distressing and disruptive to daily life.

It's important to note that cannabis-induced psychosis is different from other forms of psychosis, such as schizophrenia. While individuals with a pre-existing mental illness may be more susceptible to cannabis-induced psychosis, the condition can also occur in individuals without any prior history of mental health issues.

Symptoms of Cannabis-Induced Psychosis

The symptoms of cannabis-induced psychosis can vary from person to person, but they often include:

1. Hallucinations: Hallucinations refer to perceptual experiences involving the perception of sensory stimuli, such as seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not present in the external environment. These sensory perceptions can be vivid and compelling, often indistinguishable from real sensory experiences. Hallucinations can occur in any sensory modality, including visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory, or gustatory, and may vary in content and intensity. They can be disturbing, frightening, or disorienting, leading to significant distress and impairment in daily functioning.
2. Delusions: Delusions are false beliefs that persist despite evidence to the contrary. These beliefs are firmly held and resistant to change, even in the face of contradictory evidence or logical reasoning. Delusions can take various forms, such as persecutory delusions, where individuals believe they are being targeted, spied on, or harmed by others, or grandiose delusions, where individuals hold inflated beliefs about their own importance, power, or abilities. Delusions can significantly impact behavior, decision-making, and interpersonal relationships, contributing to functional impairment and distress.{{CTA}}
3. Disorganized thinking: Disorganized thinking refers to difficulties in organizing thoughts or expressing oneself coherently, resulting in speech that may be fragmented, tangential, or illogical. Individuals experiencing disorganized thinking may exhibit speech patterns characterized by abrupt topic shifts, derailment, or incoherence, making it challenging for others to follow their train of thought. Disorganized thinking can impair communication, hinder problem-solving abilities, and interfere with daily tasks and social interactions.
4. Paranoia: Paranoia involves intense and irrational mistrust or suspicion of others, often accompanied by feelings of persecution, threat, or conspiracy. Individuals experiencing paranoia may believe that others are plotting against them, spying on them, or intending to harm them in some way, despite a lack of evidence or justification for these beliefs. Paranoia can manifest in various contexts, including interpersonal relationships, work environments, or public spaces, leading to social withdrawal, hypervigilance, and defensive behaviors.
5. Disconnection from reality: Disconnection from reality, also known as derealization or depersonalization, involves feeling detached from one's surroundings or having a distorted perception of reality. Individuals experiencing disconnection from reality may describe feeling as though they are observing themselves from outside their body, or that the world around them appears unreal, dreamlike, or distorted. This sense of unreality can be distressing and disorienting, leading to feelings of confusion, alienation, or existential angst.
6. Agitation and irritability: Agitation and irritability refer to heightened states of restlessness, frustration, or emotional tension. Individuals experiencing agitation and irritability may feel on edge, easily provoked, or unable to relax or calm down. These emotional states can be accompanied by physical symptoms such as muscle tension, fidgeting, or pacing, as well as verbal or physical outbursts of anger or frustration. Agitation and irritability can impair social functioning, disrupt interpersonal relationships, and contribute to conflicts or misunderstandings.
7. Difficulty concentrating: Difficulty concentrating involves challenges in focusing attention or maintaining mental focus on tasks or activities. Individuals experiencing difficulty concentrating may find it hard to stay engaged, follow instructions, or complete tasks requiring sustained attention. This cognitive symptom can manifest as distractibility, forgetfulness, or mental fatigue, making it difficult to process information, solve problems, or make decisions effectively. Difficulty concentrating can interfere with academic or occupational performance, impairing productivity and task efficiency.
8. Changes in behavior: Changes in behavior refer to alterations in an individual's actions, habits, or demeanor that deviate from their usual patterns or norms. These changes may be subtle or profound and can affect various aspects of behavior, including social interactions, daily routines, and personal habits. Examples of changes in behavior may include increased impulsivity, withdrawal from social activities, changes in sleep or eating patterns, or engaging in risky or reckless behaviors. Changes in behavior can signal underlying psychological or emotional distress and may warrant further assessment or intervention.

Risk Factors for Cannabis-Induced Psychosis

Several factors can increase the risk of developing cannabis-induced psychosis. These include:

1. Family history: Having a family history of mental health disorders or substance abuse can increase the likelihood of experiencing cannabis-induced psychosis.
2. Personal history: Individuals with a history of mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety, may be more susceptible to cannabis-induced psychosis.
3. Age of first use: Starting marijuana use at a younger age has been associated with a higher risk of developing psychosis.
4. Genetic predisposition: Certain genetic factors may make some individuals more vulnerable to the effects of marijuana on mental health.
5. Frequency and potency of use: Regular and heavy use of high-potency marijuana has been linked to an increased risk of psychosis.

It's important to note that not everyone who uses marijuana will develop cannabis-induced psychosis. The occurrence of psychosis is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and individual factors.

How Long Does Cannabis-Induced Psychosis Last?

One of the key questions individuals may have is how long cannabis-induced psychosis lasts. The duration of cannabis-induced psychosis can vary depending on several factors, including the individual, the amount and potency of marijuana used, and the presence of other substances in the body. However, cannabis- induced psychosis is not permanent, but if symptoms are lasting please reach out to a health care provider.

For most individuals, the symptoms of cannabis-induced psychosis will resolve once the drug is out of their system. The effects of marijuana can be felt almost immediately after smoking and can last for a few hours. Ingesting marijuana, on the other hand, can take longer to produce effects, typically a few hours.

[Can marijuana-induced psychosis be permanent?](https://www.altamirarecovery.com/blog/is-cannabis-induced-psychosis-permanent-answers-for-college-students-and-parents/#:~:text=In the event that marijuana,Relapses are always possible.) The duration of cannabis-induced psychosis itself can vary from a few days to several weeks. It's important to seek professional help if experiencing psychosis symptoms, as they may indicate the presence of an underlying mental health issue. Individuals who have a history of mental illness or are using other substances should seek comprehensive treatment that addresses both the substance use and any co-occurring mental health conditions.

Seeking Treatment for Cannabis-Induced Psychosis

There are currently no specific treatment regimens for cannabis-induced psychosis. However, the first step in managing this condition is to stop using marijuana altogether. It's also crucial to seek professional help from mental health experts who can provide appropriate guidance and support.

If an individual is using other substances in addition to marijuana or has a co-occurring mental health disorder, a comprehensive treatment approach, such as dual diagnosis treatment, may be necessary. This involves addressing both the substance use and the underlying mental health condition.

Treatment for cannabis-induced psychosis may include therapy, medication, support groups, and other evidence-based interventions. The goal is to help individuals regain stability and manage their symptoms effectively. With proper treatment and support, individuals can recover from cannabis-induced psychosis and work towards long-term mental health and well-being.

So, is Marijuana-Induced Psychosis Permanent?

While attitudes towards marijuana have become more accepting, it's important to recognize that cannabis-induced psychosis is a real and potentially serious condition. Understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and duration of cannabis-induced psychosis is crucial for individuals who use marijuana regularly or are considering using it. Seeking professional help is essential for those experiencing psychosis symptoms, as it may indicate an underlying mental health issue that requires proper treatment.

If you or someone you know is struggling with cannabis-induced psychosis or substance use, it's important to reach out to a trusted healthcare professional or recovery program for guidance and support. Remember, recovery is possible, and seeking help is the first step towards a healthier and happier life.

Sources

NHS- Overview - Psychosis

Mind- What is psychosis?

Web MD- Psychosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

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