Greening Out: The Growing Hazards Of Cannabis Use
September 27, 2024
"Greening out" is a new saying alluding to a state of feeling sick or experiencing unpleasant effects after overindulging on cannabis, especially when the THC level is high. As cannabis has gotten stronger, this phenomenon has become increasingly common. Greening out often involves symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, anxiety, sweating, and even panic attacks.
Below, we’ll examine what greening out can feel like, how to prevent it, and the perils of marijuana use. Being aware of the threats and knowing how to use cannabis in a sensible manner is essential.
What Are The Known Hazards Of Marijuana Use?
Even though marijuana can offer benefits under medical supervision, the chances of it leading to a substance use disorder are significant. Some hazards linked to marijuana include:
- Impaired memory and cognitive function: Frequent cannabis use might make it harder to learn, retain information, and focus.
- Heightened threat of psychiatric conditions: Cannabis use, specifically in higher doses, has been connected to anxiety, depression, and bouts of psychosis in at-risk users.
- Dependency and substance use disorder: Even though it’s deemed less addictive than other substances, cannabis might still lead to a dependency, where users feel unable to live without it.
- Respiratory issues: Smoking marijuana can cause lung irritation and additional respiratory ailments, much like the results of smoking tobacco.
Awareness of these risks is critical, specifically for people more vulnerable to dependency or mental health conditions.
What Is Greening Out?
Greening out, also called "whiteying," alludes to the physical side effects of consuming too much THC in a short time. Whiteying is the way the marijuana-using subculture looks at, and occasionally mocks, the discernable greening effects. Users might feel uncomfortable, very tired, and unable to savor the high they sought.
In small doses, cannabis may relax the body and sharpen the senses. Medium doses may bring new mindsets and the well-known "munchies." On the other hand, large amounts elevate the risk of greening out, leading to a range of unpleasant symptoms.
How Does Greening Out Appear?
Greening out generally arises with a mix of these symptoms:
- Stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting: Excess THC might cause stomach trouble. While this sensation often subsides, in some cases, it can be a precursor for vomiting, particularly if someone has consumed a large amount of cannabis.
- Distinct paleness, sweating, and shaking: Muscle shakes and quivers, especially in the legs, are normal after taking excessive THC. A loss of color in the face and sweating are also typical symptoms.
When Will Greening Out Most Likely Occur?
Greening out can arise with any person who uses marijuana, no matter their experience. However, eager beginners are more prone to experience it. Here are scenarios when greening out is more likely to take place:
- New users: Individuals new to cannabis are still figuring out how it influences their bodies. This may result in taking too much, especially when people are eager to get the full force of the drug.
- Empty stomach: Smoking without eating earlier can enhance the likelihood as there isn’t any food to help absorb the drug.
- More powerful products: Veteran smokers searching for stronger highs might try dabs or high-potency edibles, which can cause greening out.
- Edibles: Edibles are frequently associated with greening out. Different from smoking, which produces a swift high, edibles start slower but last much longer—sometimes up to 8 hours. The intense, lasting effects may make the sensation overpowering.
What Might You Do If An Individual Is Greening Out
Although it’s fleeting, greening out isn’t pleasant. If you've experienced it, you might have wondered, "Is there a possibility I might die from this?" Thankfully, while it feels horrible, it’s not life-threatening. But, there are some things you can do to help yourself or a friend feel better:
- Quit using: If you or someone else is greening out, halt the use ofcannabis immediately.
- Get outside: Going out-of-doors for fresh air might reduce feelings of nausea and dizziness.
- Breathe and relax: Breathe in slowly and attempt to stay calm. Going into a panic will only make the situation worse.
- Lie down: Find a comfortable spot to kick back and allow the effects to pass. Resting will help the recovery process.
- Stay calm: Don’t forget that the uncomfortable feelings will end. Avoid letting panic take hold and chat with a friend for support.
Find Help For Cannabis Use Near Yorktown Heights
Do you often green out? Do you feel like you are unable to stop taking cannabis in spite of the unfavorable ramifications? If you would like to stop this cycle, The Counseling Center At Yorktown Heights is here to help. Dial 914-977-0608 day or night, and we’ll find the support you require, whether that’s inpatient rehab, outpatient treatment, or detox.