Marijuana use has become increasingly normalized nationwide in recent years – especially in California, where it is legal for medical and recreational purposes. But marijuana’s potency has increased, raising concerns about its impact on mental health. In particular, marijuana schizophrenia has drawn attention in recent years.

Public awareness about the potential risks of high-potency cannabis is vital, especially for people who are vulnerable to psychosis and schizophrenia.

The Link Between Cannabis Use and Psychosis

Today’s cannabis products are far different than they were a few decades ago. Modern marijuana often contains significantly higher levels of the primary psychoactive compound THC. Some strains and concentrates available in today’s dispensaries now contain THC levels above 90%, compared to an average of 3% to 4% in the 1980s.

This increase in potency has coincided with a rise in psychosis and schizophrenia diagnoses, especially among frequent cannabis users. Researchers are now examining whether high-THC marijuana may trigger schizophrenia in vulnerable people, or at least contribute to worsening symptoms.

Scientists are still working to fully understand the relationship between cannabis and schizophrenia. Here’s what we know:

• THC can trigger psychosis, particularly if you have a personal or family history of mental illness.
• Marijuana may exacerbate existing schizophrenia symptoms or make them appear earlier than they would have otherwise.
• Using marijuana to self-medicate anxiety or isolation may worsen your condition over time.

What Is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental illness that affects your thoughts, feelings and behavior. Its hallmark symptoms include:

• Hallucinations
• False beliefs that don’t align with reality
• Disorganized thinking and speech
• Emotional flatness or social withdrawal
• Difficulty concentrating, memory problems

One of the hallmark symptoms of schizophrenia is psychosis, which is a temporary or ongoing break from reality.

What Is Psychosis?

Psychosis isn’t a mental illness by itself – it’s a side effect of various mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and severe depression. During a psychotic episode, you may:

• Hear voices or see things that aren’t there
• Have paranoid or bizarre thoughts
• Struggle to differentiate between what’s real and what’s not

High-potency marijuana strains can induce psychotic symptoms, even in people with no history of mental health conditions. These symptoms may disappear as the drug wears off, but in some cases, especially with repeated use, they can become long-term or lead to a first episode of psychosis.

What Does This Mean for Californians?

Living in California, where cannabis is widely accessible and socially accepted, can make it easy to overlook the potential risks – especially for young adults and those with underlying mental health vulnerabilities.

• Just because marijuana is legal doesn’t mean it’s safe for everyone.
• Cannabis products may put you at significant risk if you have a history of psychosis, schizophrenia or other mental health disorders.
• People with a family history of mental illness should avoid THC products, including edibles like gummies and desserts.
• If you have co-occurring behavioral health concerns, you should only use marijuana under a medical professional’s guidance.

What to Do if You’re Struggling

It’s time to reach out for help if you’ve experienced paranoia, hallucinations or erratic thoughts after using marijuana, or if you worry about your mental health in general.

Serene Behavioral Health provides four levels of care for people living with substance use disorders, mental health conditions or dual diagnoses. Our expert team offers:

• Evidence-based therapies
• Medication management
• Supportive, personalized care plans
• A safe environment for healing and recovery

Marijuana schizophrenia is not an official diagnosis – but it is a real concern. As cannabis becomes more potent and accessible, you should recognize the mental health risks that come with frequent or high-dose use, especially if you are susceptible to psychosis or schizophrenia. Fortunately, early intervention can make a profound difference. Reach out to us today to achieve clarity, wellness and lasting recovery.