As of: April 2, 2024, 8:30 p.m
By: Juliane Gutmann
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Cannabis has been used as an intoxicant by many cultures for centuries. The relaxing and pain-relieving effect is offset by the risk of psychosis.
Like any other intoxicant, cannabis poses potential health risks. The debate is particularly loud about the effects of regular consumption on mental health. The psychoactive substance TCH in cannabis can trigger psychoses. In addition to schizophrenia, this also includes behavioral changes that are accompanied by a changed perception of the self and the environment. Typical symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, bizarre beliefs and thought disorders.
Psychological disorders resulting from THC consumption are increasing
“This experience is shocking for those affected because they not only lose touch with the real world, but also their innermost self,” explains Professor Carlos Schönfeldt-Lecuona from the Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy III at the Ulm University Hospital. A press release from Ulm University further states that the number of psychiatric patients with cannabis psychosis at the university hospital has increased many times since 2011. High THC levels in new cannabis varieties are cited as a possible cause.
Anyone who smokes cannabis increases their risk of developing psychosis. (Symbolic image) © Michael Bihlmayer/Imago
Only the next few months and years will show how the legalization of cannabis in Germany since April 1, 2024 will have an impact on the number of cannabis psychoses. However, it is scientifically proven that THC consumption increases the risk.
What is cannabis psychosis?
Cannabis psychosis is a special form of psychosis that is caused by the use of the drug. The symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, anxiety and panic attacks as well as ego disorders, as the
My Way Betty Ford
addiction clinic further informs. How long cannabis psychosis lasts varies from person to person. It can last for weeks or even remain permanent, making it impossible to live independently.
Frequent cannabis use increases the risk of delusions and panic attacks
“There is increasing evidence that high doses of cannabis and high concentrations of THC are simply dangerous, causing psychoses,”
Bayerischer Rundfunk
quotes Professor Peter Brieger, medical director of the kbo Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy in Haar.
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How often you smoke cannabis and how high the THC level is is crucial in terms of the risk of psychosis. Adults who smoke weed less than once a week have a slightly increased risk, according to a report on the
WDR
format
Quarks
. On the other hand, those who smoke joints with a low THC content every day triple their risk of psychosis. People who consume cannabis with a high THC content every day have a fivefold increased risk compared to people who do not smoke weed, the
Quarks
report continues.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions about medical conditions.