As cannabis becomes more accessible through legalization, its use continues to rise across the country, including right here in New Jersey. Many people turn to marijuana for relaxation, sleep support, pain relief, or simply to take the edge off during stressful times. But as cannabis becomes normalized, especially among younger adults and teens, its risks often go overlooked.

At Family Psychiatry and Therapy, we are seeing more clients with mental health concerns either linked to or worsened by frequent cannabis use. While cannabis may feel harmless to some, research increasingly shows that it can impact mental health in serious and lasting ways, especially for certain high-risk groups.

How Cannabis Affects the Brain

Cannabis contains compounds known as cannabinoids, the most well-known being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC is what produces the “high,” and it interacts with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, a network that plays a key role in mood regulation, memory, appetite, and stress response. Because the endocannabinoid system is deeply intertwined with how we process emotions and cope with challenges, frequent cannabis use can disrupt that balance. This can lead to both short- and long-term mental health challenges, depending on how often and how early someone uses it.

Common Mental Health Concerns Linked to Cannabis Use

Research shows that increased cannabis use can trigger or worsen a variety of psychiatric symptoms. While not everyone who uses marijuana will experience mental health issues, the following are among the most commonly reported effects:

Anxiety: Though some people use cannabis to relax, many experience increased anxiety, especially when using high-THC strains. Panic attacks, racing thoughts, and social withdrawal are common reactions.
Depression: Regular use has been linked to depressive symptoms, especially in individuals who begin using in their teenage years. Motivation loss and emotional numbing are frequently reported.
Psychosis and Schizophrenia: High-potency cannabis can increase the risk of psychotic symptoms, such as paranoia, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking. This risk is particularly high in individuals with a family history of schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders.
Cognitive Issues: Chronic cannabis users may notice problems with memory, attention, and decision-making. These symptoms can persist even when a person is not actively under the influence.

It’s also important to note that self-medicating with cannabis may mask deeper emotional struggles that remain unresolved and untreated.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Cannabis doesn’t affect everyone the same way. Certain individuals are more vulnerable to the negative mental health consequences of frequent use. These high-risk groups include:

Teenagers and Young Adults: The human brain continues to develop until around age 25. THC can interfere with this process, increasing the likelihood of long-term mood disorders and impaired brain function.
People with a Personal or Family History of Mental Illness: Those with a predisposition to anxiety, depression, or psychosis may experience symptoms earlier or more intensely after cannabis use.
Individuals Dealing with High Levels of Stress or Trauma: Cannabis can offer temporary relief, but long-term use may worsen emotional resilience and increase emotional dysregulation.

People in these groups may start using cannabis to manage symptoms but find that, over time, their mental health becomes more difficult to manage, not less.

Warning Signs That Cannabis May Be Affecting Mental Health

It’s not always obvious when cannabis use has become harmful. Many users don’t associate their emotional challenges with their marijuana consumption, especially when it feels like the only thing helping them get through the day. Here are warning signs that cannabis may be contributing to emotional or psychological distress:

Frequent mood swings, irritability, or feelings of hopelessness
Increased isolation from friends and family
Difficulty concentrating at work or school
Using cannabis daily or multiple times per day to “feel normal”
Experiencing paranoia, fear, or distorted thinking

If these symptoms sound familiar, professional help can make a significant difference. Identifying the relationship between cannabis use and mental health is a key part of building lasting emotional stability.

How Family Psychiatry and Therapy Can Help

At Family Psychiatry and Therapy, we work with adolescents, young adults, and adults who are struggling with mental health symptoms related to substance use, including cannabis. Our team provides a compassionate and comprehensive approach, offering:

Psychiatric evaluations to assess mood, cognition, and substance impact
Therapy to explore emotional triggers and improve coping strategies
Personalized treatment plans that may include behavioral therapy and medication support
Family counseling and education, especially for teens and their parents

We believe in meeting our clients where they are. Whether you’re considering cutting back or want to stop using cannabis altogether, we’re here to support your goals without judgment.

Call Family Psychiatry and Therapy for Support – You Are Not Alone

Cannabis use is often discussed casually, but for many people, the emotional cost is anything but casual. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or unwanted side effects from cannabis, professional treatment can help you reclaim control of your mental health. You don’t have to figure it out on your own. If you’re ready to take a closer look at how cannabis is affecting your mental health or your child’s emotional well-being, reach out to us today. The team at Family Psychiatry and Therapy is here to listen, understand, and guide you toward real, lasting relief.