Can Weed Cause Panic Attacks? Understanding Weed-Induced Anxiety
Introduction
Cannabis is often used to relax, but for some, it can have the opposite effect. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “can weed cause panic attacks?”, the answer is yes—it can. Research shows that a weed-induced panic attack may occur in certain individuals, especially at higher doses of THC or in those with underlying anxiety vulnerabilities. Understanding why this happens, and how to cope, can make cannabis use safer and less distressing.
Can Weed Cause Panic Attacks?
Evidence suggests cannabis can trigger panic in some users. For example, an emergency department study found that 17.3% of patients with acute cannabis toxicity had cannabis-induced anxiety, with 11.7% of those presenting with panic attacks (Keung et al., 2023). THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, can have both calming and anxiety-producing effects depending on the dose (Stoner, 2017).
Why Do Weed-Induced Panic Attacks Happen?
Several factors increase the likelihood of panic after cannabis use:
High THC Content. Strains with high THC and little CBD are more likely to produce anxiety (Sharpe et al., 2020).
New or Infrequent Use. People who are inexperienced with cannabis may be more sensitive to its effects (Stoner, 2017).
Preexisting Anxiety. Individuals with anxiety or panic disorder are at higher risk. Case reports show that cannabis can even uncover latent panic disorders in vulnerable individuals (Langs et al., 1997).
Set and Setting. Stressful environments or negative mindsets can amplify cannabis-induced anxiety.
Dosage. Higher doses of THC increase the likelihood of panic symptoms (Sharpe et al., 2020).
Symptoms of a Weed-Induced Panic Attack
A weed-induced panic attack often mirrors a typical panic attack and may include:
Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
Dizziness or feeling faint
Sweating or shaking
Intense feelings of dread
Fear of losing control or “going crazy”
Derealization (feeling detached from reality)
These symptoms usually peak within 10–30 minutes but may feel overwhelming in the moment (Keung et al., 2023).
How Long Do Weed-Induced Panic Attacks Last?
While frightening, these panic attacks are temporary. Most subside as THC is metabolized, though lingering anxiety may last for several hours depending on the dose and individual sensitivity (Stoner, 2017).
How to Cope With a Weed-Induced Panic Attack
A weed-induced panic attack can feel terrifying, but it’s important to remember: the experience is temporary and not life-threatening. While symptoms may peak quickly, they usually fade as THC is metabolized. Here are several strategies that can help you ride out the experience:
Ground Yourself in the Present
Panic attacks often come with racing thoughts and a sense of losing control. Try simple grounding strategies:
Look around the room and name five things you see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.
Carry a small object (like a stone or bracelet) and focus on its texture and weight.
These techniques interrupt spirals of fear and bring your attention back to the present.
Slow and Steady Breathing
Cannabis-related panic often includes rapid breathing or a sense of choking. Practice paced breathing:
Inhale gently through your nose for 4 seconds.
Hold for 2 seconds.
Exhale slowly through your mouth for 6 seconds.
Repeat until your heartbeat slows. This calms the body’s “fight-or-flight” response.
Create a Safe, Calm Environment
Overstimulation can worsen panic. If possible:
Move to a quiet, familiar space.
Dim bright lights or step away from crowds.
Play soothing music or a calming podcast to shift focus.
A reassuring environment can reduce sensory overload and help symptoms pass more quickly.
Use Reassuring Self-Talk
Remind yourself:
“This is just a panic attack—it will pass.”
“These feelings are uncomfortable but not dangerous.”
“Many people experience this; I’m not alone.”
CBT research shows that how we talk to ourselves in anxious moments can significantly reduce the intensity of fear (Zvolensky et al., 2006).
Stay Hydrated and Ground Your Body
Drinking water helps with dry mouth and can also serve as a grounding ritual. Light movement, like stretching your arms or walking slowly around the room, can reduce physical tension.
Distraction and Comfort
Gentle distractions shift your attention away from symptoms:
Watch a lighthearted TV show or listen to music you enjoy.
Wrap yourself in a blanket for physical comfort.
Talk with a trusted friend who can reassure you until symptoms ease.
Prevent Escalation With Mindfulness
If panic escalates, mindfulness exercises can help you observe the sensations rather than fight them. For example:
Notice your racing heart and think, “This is just my body reacting to THC; it’s not dangerous.”
Allow the sensations to rise and fall like waves rather than resisting them.
Long-Term Coping and Prevention
If you’ve experienced a weed-induced panic attack, you may want to take steps to prevent future ones:
Use lower-THC, higher-CBD strains.
Start with smaller doses and wait to see how your body responds.
Avoid cannabis if you already feel anxious, stressed, or in an unfamiliar setting.
Consider talking with a mental health professional if panic attacks persist.
When to Seek Help
If panic attacks happen repeatedly—whether linked to cannabis or not—seeking professional help is important. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is effective for panic and anxiety, helping individuals challenge fearful thoughts and reduce avoidance (Zvolensky et al., 2006).
Conclusion
So, can weed cause panic attacks? Yes—particularly in high doses, stressful environments, or among people already prone to anxiety. A weed-induced panic attack can feel overwhelming, but the experience is temporary and treatable. With awareness, prevention strategies, and professional support when needed, individuals can reduce the risks and manage anxiety more effectively.
References
Keung, W., Perrott, J., Dinis-Oliveira, R. J., Monteiro, J., & Lynch, M. (2023). Cannabis-induced anxiety disorder in the emergency department. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 14, 1168125. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1168125
Langs, G., Fabisch, K., Fabisch, H., & Zapotoczky, H. G. (1997). Cannabis-induced panic attacks and panic disorder with cannabis as a causal factor. European Psychiatry, 12(7), 348–352. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0924-9338(97)83568-7
Sharpe, L., Sinclair, J., & Ciarrochi, J. (2020). Cannabis and anxiety: A critical review of the evidence. Journal of Translational Medicine, 18, 374. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12967-020-02518-2
Stoner, S. A. (2017). Effects of marijuana on mental health: Anxiety disorders. Alcohol & Drug Abuse Institute, University of Washington. https://adai.uw.edu/pubs/pdf/2017mjanxiety.pdf
Zvolensky, M. J., Bernstein, A., Sachs-Ericsson, N., Schmidt, N. B., Buckner, J. D., Bonn-Miller, M. O., & Marshall, E. C. (2006). Lifetime associations between cannabis, use, abuse, and dependence and panic attacks in a representative sample. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 40(6), 477–486. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2006.04.002