Is using cannabis to self-medicate risky?
Yes, using cannabis to treat problems can be risky. The drugcom drug encyclopedia describes that mental health problems such as depression or anxiety increase the risk of using cannabis for self-medication. This article explains the cycle behind this and shows ways to tackle the problem at its root.
Why cannabis seems to ease tension
Drugcom lists calm and well-being as pleasant effects of cannabis, and low mood as an unpleasant effect. Anyone who uses cannabis against tension or low mood may therefore achieve exactly the opposite.
According to drugcom, the underlying psychological problem is often the real issue. Cannabis then becomes a crutch to get through everyday life, and the cause remains untreated.
Why the cycle turns against you
Drugcom describes that low mood is one of the effects experienced as unpleasant. Anyone who uses cannabis against low mood can end up with exactly the opposite. In addition, there is a risk of psychological dependence. According to the BIÖG, roughly one in eight people who use cannabis become dependent.
If use increases, everyday life shifts too. School, training, work or friendships come under pressure. The BIÖG page lists poorer performance at school or in training as a possible sign of addiction. This pattern is an important signal that self-medication is not working.
When psychological problems are behind it
Depression and anxiety are serious illnesses. They need a medical assessment and often a treatment that goes beyond what a conversation can achieve. The article Does cannabis worsen depression and anxiety? explains how use and these illnesses are linked.
Psychosis is also a concern. According to the BIÖG, people who use cannabis develop psychosis more often. If you experience confusion, disturbed perception or strong anxiety after using cannabis, seek medical help immediately. The article What warning signs point to psychosis? covers these warning signs in more detail.
Recognising stress as a trigger
If you are under pressure, act early. Note the situations in which you use cannabis and the pressure you feel beforehand. The article Does using cannabis for stress relief become a problem? shows when stress relief turns into a problem.
Warning signs of self-medication
- You use cannabis regularly to manage your feelings.
- Without cannabis, you notice marked restlessness or low mood.
- Your use increases even though the problems stay the same or get bigger.
- You feel that you can no longer cope without cannabis.
If several of these points apply to you, counselling is a sensible step. The article Can mental health problems increase cannabis use? describes this link in more detail.
Finding better ways
A problem needs a solution that actually addresses it. This includes a conversation with a doctor, a psychotherapy assessment where needed, and a counselling service that puts your use into context. Talking with people you trust also helps, because they can take pressure off your everyday life.
Write down which strain you feel and what help you would like. This note is a good basis for the first appointment with a doctor.
Prevention in everyday life
Prevention means raising strain early, before it leads to use. If you openly name stress, sleep problems or worries, you have more options for help. A counselling service can help you make a plan that does not rely on cannabis alone.
If you are in a crisis
A crisis can show up as intense restlessness, sleeplessness or the feeling that you do not know what to do. If you use cannabis in this state, the situation can get worse. It therefore makes sense to seek help before using cannabis becomes a habit.
People you trust can give you support in this situation. Tell them directly what you need, such as a conversation, company on the way to a doctor or simply time. If there is an acute danger to you or others, call the emergency number 112. The article When does cannabis use require an emergency call? shows which warning signs require immediate action.
Preparing for the conversation with your doctor
Write down in advance which complaints you have, how long they have lasted and how often you use cannabis. Also note what effect you hope for and what you actually experience. This information helps to assess the situation.
- Name your complaints in one sentence, such as restlessness, low mood or sleep problems.
- State your use openly, even if this is difficult for you.
- Write down questions about possible treatments.
Being open about your use helps the treatment match your actual condition.
What you can do now
- Write down which strain concerns you most.
- Note when and how often you use cannabis to calm yourself.
- Book an appointment with a doctor.
- Bring in a counselling service if cannabis use is shaping your life.
For a first conversation by phone, you can reach the Sucht & Drogen Hotline on 01806 313031. In an acute emergency, call 112.
Frequently asked questions
Is it risky to use cannabis for stress or anxiety?
Yes, it can be risky. Drugcom reports that mental health problems such as depression or anxiety raise the risk of using cannabis for self-medication. The short-term relief can be followed by low mood and psychological dependence. If you feel stress or anxiety, have it assessed by a doctor and use a counselling service.