Greening Out: The Increased Risks Of Cannabis Use
September 27, 2024
"Greening out" is a new phrase alluding to a state of feeling ill or experiencing unfavorable effects after taking too much cannabis, particularly when the THC concentration is high. As cannabis strains have gotten more potent, this phenomenon has become noticeably more common. Greening out often involves symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, sweating, anxiety, and sometimes even panic.
Below, we’ll explore what greening out feels like, how to circumvent it, and the dangers of marijuana use. Being knowledgeable of the threats and knowing how to take cannabis sensibly is essential.
What Are The Possible Hazards Of Marijuana Use?
Although cannabis use can be beneficial under medical guidance, its potential to turn into a substance use disorder is considerable. Some hazards connected to cannabis include:
- Impaired cognitive function and memory: Regular marijuana use can make it difficult to retain information, learn, and focus.
- Heightened risk of psychiatric illness: Cannabis use, specifically in high doses, has been tied to anxiety, depression, and bouts of psychosis in vulnerable individuals.
- Dependency and substance use disorder: Although deemed less addictive than other substances, cannabis may still lead to a dependency, where someone feels unable to function without consuming it.
- Respiratory issues: Cannabis use through inhalation might cause irritation of the lungs and more respiratory ailments, similar to the impact of smoking tobacco.
Being aware of these risks is crucial, particularly for people more vulnerable to dependency or mental health conditions.
What Does Greening Out Mean?
Greening out, also called "whiteying," refers to the physical impact of taking too much marijuana in a brief time. Whiteying is the way the cannabis-using subculture perceives, and sometimes mocks, the discernable greening effects. Users might feel distressed, overly sleepy, and unable to enjoy the high they wanted.
In small doses, cannabis can relax users and amplify senses. Slightly higher doses could lead to new viewpoints and the well-known "munchies." However, sizeable quantities increase the danger of greening out, leading to a range of unwanted symptoms.
What Does Greening Out Look Like?
Greening out generally manifests with a combination of these symptoms:
- Stomach issues, nausea, and vomiting: An overindulgence of THC can upset the stomach. While this feeling often passes, in some situations, it might lead to vomiting, particularly if someone has consumed a significant quantity of cannabis.
- Shaking, sweating, and distinct paleness: Muscle twitches and shakes, particularly in the legs, are normal after consuming excessive THC. Sweating and a lack of color in the face are also common symptoms.
When Is Greening Out Most Likely To Take Place?
Greening out can arise with any marijuana user, regardless of experience. Even so, eager beginners are much more at risk. Here is when greening out is most common:
- Novice users: Individuals new to cannabis are still finding out how it affects their bodies. This might result in overconsumption, specifically when people are eager to get the full effect of the drug.
- Empty stomach: Taking cannabis without eating earlier can enhance the risk as there isn’t any food to help absorb the drug.
- Potent strains: Experienced smokers looking for more intense highs might try dabs or high-powered edibles, which may cause greening out.
- Edibles: Edibles are notorious for causing greening out. Dissimilar to smoking, which produces a swift high, edibles start slower but last a good deal longer—frequently as long as 8 hours. The potent, lasting effects may cause the experience to be overpowering.
What To Do If A Person Is Greening Out
Despite the fact it’s usually short-lived, greening out is unpleasant. If you've experienced it, you might have asked yourself, "Could I possibly die from this?" Thankfully, while it may feel horrendous, it’s not life-threatening. Even so, there are a few things you might do to help yourself or someone else feel better:
- Stop using: If you or someone you’re with is greening out, quit cannabis at once.
- Get fresh air: Taking a break outdoors for a bit of air might decrease feelings of nausea and dizziness.
- Remember to breathe: Take deep breaths and attempt to calm down. Going into a panic will only make the situation worse.
- Lie down: Find a cozy area to kick back and let the effects go away. Resting can help your body overcome the sensation.
- Remain calm: Know that the unpleasant sensations will end. Don’t let panic take over and talk to a friend for reassurance.
Request Help For Cannabis Use Near Monmouth Junction
Are you frequently greening out? Do you feel like you aren’t able to stop taking marijuana regardless of the unpleasant consequences? If you want to halt this pattern of use, The Counseling Center at Monmouth Junction is here to help. Contact us 732-605-6353 day or night, and we’ll find the support you need, whether that’s detox, inpatient rehab, or outpatient treatment.