One of the top reasons why people smoke weed is because they want to feel more relaxed, uplifted, and less anxious. While these are common effects of weed, some people will develop slight anxiety and paranoia. Instead of feeling relaxed, they feel anxiety from smoking weed.

Cannabis-induced anxiety and paranoia are normal and nothing to panic about, and it has something to do with the strain’s THC content.

THC, the Psychoactive Cannabinoid

THC is the main psychoactive cannabinoid and produces the “high” as it stimulates the endocannabinoid systems found in the amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for controlling anxiety, stress, and fear.

Some people do feel relaxed after smoking weed. Unfortunately, some also feel more anxious and develop paranoia after consuming cannabis. Studies show that those who have more endocannabinoid systems in the amygdala are prone to this effect. So the higher the THC content of the strain, the more it produces anxiety and paranoia.

But weed’s paranoia and anxiety-inducing effects can be controlled though. Knowing how can help reduce these side effects so you can enjoy weed. Our goal is to help you use cannabis properly so that you don’t get anxious from weed. 

Tips in Reducing Cannabis-Induced Anxiety

Don’t worry too much if you feel some anxiety after smoking weed. This is completely normal and can be controlled. Moreover, this feeling goes away after a while once the effects of THC wear off. But there are some things that you can do to prevent this from happening or, at least, reducing its effects.

Compared to decades ago, modern cannabis strains have a higher THC content. So if you want a less anxiety-inducing strain, choose a strain that has a higher CBD content. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t get people high nor does it produce any psychoactive effects. In fact, according to experts, CBD also has properties that lessen THC’s side effects.

Low-THC, high-CBD strains like Charlotte’s Web and Harlequin are perfect for those who want to smoke weed to control their symptoms. These high-CBD strains also give them the therapeutic benefits of the Entourage Effect.

Let’s say you chose the wrong strain, one that has a high THC level, and you’re now feeling a little anxious and paranoid, what can you do?

The simplest way to get rid of these negative side effects is to relax. It may be hard, but doing something relaxing like watching a movie or even taking a warm bath can help take your mind off of it. If you feel a bit sleepy, then sleep it off. When you wake up, you’ll feel a lot better.

As mentioned earlier, CBD counteracts THC’s side effects. So if you feel really uncomfortable, you can place a few drops of CBD oil under your tongue. This will help reduce the anxiety from smoking weed. 

Other methods that can help reduce anxiety induced by high THC levels include taking a whiff of pepper, chewing black peppercorn, drinking plenty of fluids, or drinking lemonade. These have terpenes that also counteract THC’s psychoactive properties.

High THC levels can make you feel uncomfortable, but know that these go away after a while though. You can prevent anxiety from smoking weed by doing the tips above.

Click here to learn how to choose the best strain for any moment.