Cannabis can be a helpful tool for managing various health conditions. Still, it’s not uncommon to face unexpected side effects, including anxiety. Experiencing anxiety while using prescribed cannabis is frustrating, especially when it’s meant to help you relax or alleviate other symptoms. This article explains why anxiety might occur and offers actionable steps to ease your mind.
Why Does Cannabis Sometimes Cause Anxiety?
Cannabis interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating mood. However, individual tolerance levels, THC content, or even specific environmental factors can tip the balance and change how the cannabis affects a user. Consuming high-THC products or overindulging may leave you feeling overwhelmed or uneasy. Personal triggers, like stress or unfamiliar settings, can also magnify these effects, turning a calm experience into an anxious one.
Choosing the Right Product and Dose
Your cannabis prescription works best when tailored to your specific needs. Opt for lower THC strains or products featuring a balance of THC and CBD, as CBD may help counteract anxiety-inducing effects. Ask your prescriber to start with a minimal dosage if possible, giving yourself time to gauge how it feels before increasing your intake. A “start low, go slow” approach helps you use cannabis with confidence.
Creating the Ideal Environment
Your surroundings play a significant role in shaping your cannabis experience. Choose a familiar, comfortable space where you feel safe and at ease. Pair cannabis use with calming activities, like listening to relaxing music or practicing deep breathing. Avoid combining it with caffeine or environments where potential stressors are present, as these can heighten feelings of anxiety.
When It’s Time To Seek Help
Experiencing a panic attack while using cannabis can be an extremely difficult situation, and you may feel a pressure to simply let it pass despite how serious it feels in the moment. The truth is that for many cannabis users, waiting it out is the right solution. And in the moment, you may face additional worries about issues like emergency room malpractice or expenses that keep you from seeking help.
That said, if you do not feel well, it is always best to get professional assistance. It is unlikely that you will experience a medical emergency while using this medication, but it isn’t impossible, and you shouldn’t write off symptoms such as difficulty breathing or chest pain. Trust how you feel and contact a healthcare provider if something feels off.
Take the Next Step With Confidence
If you experience anxiety while using prescribed cannabis, know that it’s more common than you might think, and there are ways to address it. By understanding the possible causes, choosing targeted products, and staying aware of your environment, you can reclaim a sense of ease. You deserve to feel well, both in mind and body, as you explore the benefits of prescribed cannabis.
