Know the Link- Understanding Psychosis

Know the link

Cannabis might seem like a common way to relax or fit in, but it's important to know how it can affect your brain, especially when you're young.

One serious risk linked to cannabis use is something called psychosis.

What is psychosis?

Psychosis is when someone loses touch with reality. This can include:

• Hallucinations: Seeing or hearing things that aren't there
• Delusions: Believing things that aren't true or real
• Confused or disorganized thinking

It can feel scary and overwhelming, and it's not just a "bad trip".

Psychosis is a real mental health condition that can last for weeks, months or longer if left untreated.

Cannabis risks and ways to lower them

• How cannabis increases risk

  Using cannabis (commonly known as weed) can raise your chances of developing psychosis. Here's why:

  • Your brain is still developing until around age 25. Cannabis can interfere with that process.
  • Stronger weed, more risk: Today's cannabis often has higher levels of THC, the chemical that makes you feel high, Fiand it also increases the risk of psychosis
  • The more you use, the more the risk grows, especially if you use daily or start young
  • Some people are more vulnerable, especially if you have a family history of mental illness or you’ve had anxiety, depression or trauma
• Lower your risk
  • To reduce your risk of developing psychosis, avoiding cannabis use is safest. If you're not ready or able to stop using, practice harm reduction, follow lower-risk guidance and cut back on how much you use.
  • People use cannabis for many reasons, such as socializing, exploring, cope with stress or mental health challenges. However, cannabis use can harm your health. Consider safer ways to manage stress, anxiety or trauma.
  • Understand the product you're using. Learn how to read a cannabis product label and understand the THC level and potency of the product you're using.
• Where to get help
  • If your safety is at risk, call 911 right away
  • Call or text 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline for a safe space to talk 24/7
  • Need help with mental health or addiction but don't know where to start? Call the Access Line at 1-866-550-5205.
  • Contact the Early Psychosis Intervention Service if you meet the following criteria:
  • Age 14 to 35 years of age
  • Experiencing symptoms of psychosis or have been diagnosed with first episode of psychosis
  • Submit a mental health referral online or call 905-688-2854 ext. 7356

  Early Psychosis Intervention Service

  This service provides:

  • Assessment and treatment for those experiencing first episode of psychosis (first time someone experiences psychotic symptoms)
  • A free education group to those who are supporting a family member with psychosis
• Resources
  • Does cannabis use increase the risk of developing psychosis or schizophrenia?
  • Cannabis and Psychosis - Exploring the Link
  • Early Psychosis Intervention Ontario Network
  • Take a free 90-minute certificate course created by youth, for youth to gain a strong understanding on mental health and cannabis