How to Get Through a Marijuana Panic Attack

For many cannabis consumers, marijuana is a great tool to ease anxiety, pain, and other ailments. However, for some people, smoking weed can have the opposite effect and trigger a panic attack. If you’ve ever felt sudden dread or anxiety after consuming cannabis, you’re not alone. A marijuana-induced panic attack can feel terrifying, but there are ways to handle it and prevent it from happening in the future. This guide will walk you through how to recognize, handle, and prevent these panic attacks while continuing to safely consume cannabis.

How to Deal With Panic Attacks After Smoking Weed

When a marijuana-induced panic attack strikes, the symptoms may resemble a heart attack or extreme stress, causing racing thoughts, chest tightness, dizziness, and even shortness of breath. These reactions are due to the brain’s overstimulation from THC. Here are some strategies to help manage a cannabis-induced panic attack:

1. Stay Calm and Breathe
   Focus on slow, deep breathing. This will help calm your nervous system and slow your heart rate. Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth. Doing this for several minutes can significantly reduce panic symptoms.
2. Find a Quiet Space
   If you’re in a busy or overstimulating environment, try to move to a calmer, quieter place. Sensory overload can worsen feelings of panic, so reducing noise and light can help.
3. Hydrate and Stay Cool
   Drinking water and staying hydrated may ease some symptoms, such as dry mouth or dizziness. Cooling your body with a fan or by splashing your face with cold water can also provide quick relief.
4. Remind Yourself It’s Temporary
   A key aspect of handling a panic attack is reminding yourself that the discomfort is temporary. The effects of cannabis will wear off, and you’ll start feeling better soon. Grounding techniques, such as focusing on objects in your surroundings, can help keep you anchored.

Who Is at the Greatest Risk of Weed Panic Attacks?

Not everyone who uses cannabis will experience panic attacks, but certain groups are more prone to them. Here are some factors that may increase the likelihood:

1. First-Time Users or Inexperienced Consumers
   People who are new to cannabis or consume higher doses than their tolerance allows may experience anxiety or panic. The body’s unfamiliarity with THC can lead to overstimulation.
2. High-THC Consumption
   Strains or products high in THC, particularly without balancing cannabinoids like CBD, are more likely to cause anxiety in users. THC stimulates areas of the brain responsible for fear and anxiety, making panic more likely at high doses.
3. Preexisting Anxiety Disorders
   Individuals who already struggle with anxiety or panic disorders may be more vulnerable to these effects. THC can exacerbate symptoms and cause these individuals to experience heightened reactions.
4. Stressful Environment or Setting
   Consuming cannabis in stressful environments or situations can amplify anxiety. Using marijuana in a crowded place or during a stressful time can lead to negative emotional responses.

Signs You Might Be Having a Panic Attack

Recognizing the signs of a weed-induced panic attack is important. These can include:

• Racing heart or palpitations
• Shortness of breath or hyperventilating
• Chest tightness or discomfort
• Sweating or chills
• Dizziness or feeling faint
• Nausea or stomach discomfort
• Fear of losing control or a sense of impending doom
• Feeling detached from reality or your surroundings

If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming cannabis, it’s likely you’re having a panic attack. It’s crucial to understand that these feelings, though distressing, are temporary and will pass as the cannabis leaves your system.

How to Best Consume Cannabis if You’re Prone to Anxiety or Panic

If you’re prone to anxiety or panic attacks, the way you consume cannabis can significantly impact your experience. Consider these tips:

Sativa Strains

Sativa strains are known for their uplifting and energizing effects but can also trigger anxiety in some users. If you’re prone to panic attacks, it’s best to avoid sativas or use them cautiously in small doses. Instead, consider mixing them with CBD for a more balanced experience.

Indica Strains

Indica strains are typically associated with relaxation and can be helpful for reducing anxiety and promoting sleep. If you experience panic attacks, indica strains might be a safer option as they generally have more calming effects.

Hybrid Strains

Hybrid strains offer a blend of both sativa and indica effects. Depending on the ratio, they can provide a balanced experience. Look for strains with a higher CBD content to help mitigate THC’s anxiety-inducing effects.

Summary

Experiencing a marijuana-induced panic attack can be overwhelming, but knowing how to manage it makes all the difference. By recognizing your risk factors and selecting cannabis products that are less likely to cause anxiety, you can enjoy the benefits of cannabis while minimizing the risk of panic attacks. Remember to start with low doses, choose strains with higher CBD content, and avoid consuming cannabis in stressful environments.

Veriheal can assist in helping you find the right medical marijuana card and resources to make informed decisions about your cannabis use. With professional support and access to licensed providers, Veriheal can guide you in selecting the best strains and products to manage anxiety safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Does Cannabis Cause Panic Attacks?

THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, can overstimulate the amygdala, which is responsible for regulating fear and anxiety. For some users, especially those consuming high doses, this overstimulation can trigger a panic attack.

Does Weed Help Anxiety or Cause It?

Cannabis can both help and cause anxiety, depending on the strain, dose, and individual. While CBD is known for its calming effects, THC, especially in high amounts, can induce anxiety and panic in certain users.

How to Best Consume Cannabis if You’re Prone to Anxiety or Panic?

To avoid panic attacks, start with low doses of cannabis and opt for strains with higher CBD content. Indica or CBD-rich hybrids are generally safer options for individuals prone to anxiety.

How to Handle Panic Attacks?

Handling a panic attack involves deep breathing, finding a quiet space, and reminding yourself that the feelings are temporary. Staying hydrated and using grounding techniques can also help ease symptoms.

How Can I Stop Having Panic Attacks While Smoking Cannabis?

Lower your THC intake, choose strains with a higher CBD-to-THC ratio, and consume cannabis in a calm, comfortable setting. Pay attention to your body and stop using cannabis if you feel anxious or uncomfortable.