We’ve all sat through those lectures-schools, or some random “concerned adult”- warning us about how smoking marijuana will ruin our lives. Yet here we are, fully aware that, for most people, a little weed never hurt anyone.
You’ve probably heard the stories of your friends who’ve become better people from their “mind-blowing” experiences, or they regale you with stories of becoming a Jedi or being a child again and experiencing childhood with the knowledge of an adult.
And for the most part, weed is fun, relaxing until it’s not.
While most cannabis experiences are benign or even beneficial, there’s a darker side that’s not often talked about. It was revealed in a study that 19–21% of people who used cannabis experienced a severe psychotic episode. That’s nearly one in five users, highlighting the importance of understanding the potential risks associated with cannabis use.
In this article, we’ll break down the differences between a bad cannabis trip and psychosis, discuss how you can enjoy cannabis responsibly, and answer how to get rid of a bad high.
Let’s dive in!
What is a Bad Trip?
A bad trip with weed, also known as cannabis-induced anxiety or paranoia, is a temporary but intense reaction to consuming too much cannabis or reacting poorly to its effects.
While cannabis is often associated with relaxation and euphoria, overconsumption-especially for those new to cannabis or with a low tolerance- can flip the experience into something distressing.
Symptoms can include:
- Racing thoughts
- Extreme paranoia or fear
- Increased heart rate
- Sweating
- A sense of impending doom
Why Do Bad Trips From Weed Happen?
- High THC levels
- Low tolerance
- Unfamiliar setting
What is Psychosis?
Psychosis, on the other hand, is a severe mental health condition characterized by a detachment from reality. While psychosis can have various causes (e.g., schizophrenia, brain injuries, or substance abuse), Cannabis-Induced Psychosis is a rare but serious occurrence.
Unlike a bad trip, psychosis often persists beyond the immediate effects of cannabis and requires medical attention.
Symptoms can include:
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Disorganized thinking or speech
- Loss of connection with reality
Why does Psychosis Happen?
- Mental health history
- Frequent use
- High-potency products
Key Differences
Aspect | Bad Cannabis Trip | Psychosis |
Onset | Immediate or within minutes of use | Gradual; linked to prolonged or high-dose use |
Duration | Temporary (a few hours) | May last days or require treatment |
Symptoms | Anxiety, paranoia, increased heart rate | Hallucinations, delusions, detachment |
Resolution | Subsides, without medical help | Often needs medical attention |
Risk Factors | High THC, low tolerance, unfamiliar setting | High THC, predisposed mental health issues |
How to Avoid a Bad Trip
Using cannabis responsibly can enhance your experience and help you avoid unpleasant outcomes like a bad trip or, in rare cases, psychosis. Here’s how to approach cannabis with mindfulness and care.
1. Start Low, Go Slow
A study in JAMA Psychiatry found that individuals who consumed doses above 10 mg of THC were significantly more likely to experience anxiety, paranoia, or other adverse effects. So, the golden rule here is to start with a low dose and increase gradually.
Begin with 2.5-5 mg of THC for edibles or a small puff when smoking or vaping.
2. Choose Balanced Strains
Not all cannabis strains have the same effect. Research the strain you’re planning on doing. Read everything: what the trips are like, side effects, the coming down.
THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, can lead to heightened anxiety or paranoia if taken in large quantities. In contrast, CBD has calming properties that can counteract these effects.
Look for strains with balanced THC-to-CBD ratios or those higher in CBD. For example, a strain like Harlequin (THC:CBD ratio ~5:2) can provide relaxation without overwhelming psychoactive effects.
3. Stay Mindful of Your Environment
Some users feel better in a quiet and familiar environment, such as a cozy living room, whereas others prefer a location in nature. Find an environment that feels safe and peaceful to you.
Tips:
- Use cannabis in a safe, familiar place with people you trust.
- Avoid crowded or noisy spaces if you’re prone to anxiety.
4. Avoid indulging in Edibles
Edibles can feel like the perfect way to get high since you don’t have to smoke them. However, they work slowly, and when they hit, they hit hard. The delay often tricks users into consuming more than they should, leading to an unexpectedly intense high.
How to Use Safely:
- Start with a low dose (2.5-5 mg THC).
- Wait at least 2 hours before consuming more, as edibles take time to metabolize.
5. Know When to Stop
Getting high safely is a learned skill like everything else. Everyone learns from experience. This means you must know how much you can endure and the best method to consume that suits you. Every individual reacts differently to cannabis, and understanding your own tolerance is crucial.
Signs to stop using:
- Rapid heartbeat or dizziness.
- Overwhelming feelings of anxiety or paranoia.
- Discomfort that persists despite efforts to relax.
6. Understand Your Mental Health History
Besides the obvious, don’t get high when you’re sad. There are other things as well you must look into beforehand. If you have a personal or family history of mental health conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or psychosis, cannabis use may carry heightened risks.
A study also highlights that frequent cannabis use increases the risk of psychotic disorders like schizophrenia.
Recommendation:
- Consult a doctor before indulging.
- Avoid high-THC products altogether if you have a known mental health predisposition.
7. Always Buy From Trusted Dispensary
A recent study revealed that over 71% of Canadians who used cannabis in the past year chose legal sources, citing product safety, convenience, and compliance with the law as their top reasons.
To make sure you stay safe, make sure to buy only the premium and original cannabis from trusted online dispensaries such as Green Ace. Here, we offer premium edibles crafted to deliver the perfect experience every time.
What To Do If You Suspect Psychosis Or Bad Trip
Unlike Psychosis, which rarely ever gets triggered. Bad tripping on weed will happen eventually- to everyone- no matter what, there’s not much you can do about it. Sometimes, you can reverse the trip if you can fill yourself with positive experiences. If not, here are some tips on how to get rid of being high and ensure you or your friend is safe during such an experience.
1. Stay Calm and Aknowledge What’s Happening
Understanding what’s happening is the first step to managing it. Both a bad trip and psychosis can feel overwhelming, but staying calm can make a big difference.
Remind yourself that this is a medical condition, not a personal failure. It might be frightening, but help is available.
A Mantra you can remember: “This will pass, I am safe.”
2. Move to a Safe, Comfortable Space
When you’re high as a ball, everything is dangerous. Even the most minimal thing can trigger you. So, you must first move to a safe and comfortable space with fewer distractions.
- Bad Trip: Choose a quiet, familiar spot away from loud noises or distractions.
- Psychosis: If you or someone else feels unsafe, move to a secure location where external triggers are minimized.
Key Tips
- Dim bright lights and reduce noise.
- Turn off the TV, loud music, or anything overstimulating.
- Avoid large crowds or chaotic settings.
3. Focus on Your Breathing
Anxiety from a bad trip or psychosis can lead to shallow, rapid breathing, which worsens discomfort. Deep breathing can help your mind and body. Here’s how you can practice deep breathing:
- Deep Breathing:
- Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 6–8 seconds. Repeat until you feel calmer.
- 5-4-3-2-1 Technique:
- Name 5 things you see, 4 you can touch, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, and 1 you taste.
- Engage Your Senses:
- Hold a comforting object, drink water, or eat something mild like crackers.
4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Something Light
Cannabis can dehydrate you, and low blood sugar can exacerbate symptoms. How long does being stoned last? It depends on the type of strain you’ve taken. Make sure to stay well-hydrated and well-fed to maintain blood sugar levels. A simple snack or drink can go a long way.
- Drink: Water, herbal tea, or electrolyte drinks. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen symptoms.
- Snack: Something easy on the stomach, like fruit, toast, or crackers, can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
5. Avoid Triggers
If you’re wondering how to get unhigh, there is not much you can do except just to wait. However, you can improve the experience by avoiding stimulations and similar triggers. Bad trips or psychosis can intensify paranoia or fear. So make sure to avoid overanalyzing or focusing on negative thoughts and Certain actions or environments.
- Mirrors: Seeing your reflection can amplify paranoia or disorientation.
- Overthinking: Don’t dwell on the symptoms; focus on calming strategies.
- Overcrowded Places: If possible, move to a quieter, less chaotic space.
Instead, focus on positive distractions like watching a light-hearted show, talking to a trusted friend, or engaging in a simple activity like colouring or doodling.
6. Avoid Cannabis or Other Substances
High-THC products often trigger both of these conditions. If you suspect your psychosis is linked to cannabis use, stop consuming it immediately. THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis, can worsen psychotic symptoms.
Steps for Recovery:
- Avoid high-THC products in the future, especially if you have a history of psychosis.
- Consider strains with higher CBD levels or 100% CBD tinctures if using cannabis for medical purposes.
7. Support Recovery
After the experience, take time to reflect and recover. Rest, hydrate, and avoid cannabis until you feel completely back to normal.
- Bad Trip: Use the experience as a learning opportunity. Next time, start with a lower dose and choose a comfortable setting.
- Psychosis: Work with professionals to create a long-term plan, which may include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
Wrap up
That’s it! Cannabis can be a source of relaxation, creativity, and fun when used responsibly. But it’s essential to approach it with care, knowing your limits and understanding the risks. Don’t let a bad trip or, in rare cases, psychosis overshadow the positives.
When it comes to enjoying cannabis the right way, trust The Green Ace for premium-quality products that deliver a safe, satisfying experience every time. Explore our range of edibles, strains, and CBD-rich options, all crafted to help you enjoy the moment without compromising your peace of mind.