Derealization is a dissociative experience where individuals feel detached from their surroundings. This article explores the link between cannabis and derealization, defining the experience, discussing contributing factors, and offering guidance on managing such episodes.
Understanding Derealization
Derealization is a subjective experience where the world feels unreal, dreamlike, foggy, or distant. It involves a sense of detachment from people, objects, or your environment, with surroundings appearing distorted, artificial, or unfamiliar. For instance, objects might look blurry, unusually clear, flat, or have altered sizes or shapes. Time can also seem to speed up or slow down, and sounds might appear louder or softer.
This experience differs from depersonalization, which involves feeling detached from one’s own thoughts, feelings, body, or actions. While both are dissociative symptoms, derealization focuses on the external world, and depersonalization focuses on the self. These feelings can be brief and temporary, occurring in various contexts, and do not always indicate a standalone disorder. However, if they persist, recur, or cause significant distress, they may point to depersonalization-derealization disorder.
Cannabis’s Role in Derealization
Cannabis, particularly its main psychoactive compound, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), can trigger episodes of derealization in some individuals. These experiences typically manifest during or shortly after consumption, often peaking approximately 30 minutes after ingestion and subsiding within about two hours. Anecdotal reports and some research indicate a connection, especially with higher doses or specific strains.
While a link exists, not all cannabis users will experience derealization. The occurrence of derealization after cannabis use is often temporary, resolving as the substance’s effects wear off. However, for a subgroup of individuals, these symptoms might persist for weeks, months, or even years, even after discontinuing cannabis.
Why It Happens: Contributing Factors
Several factors influence why cannabis might induce derealization. The concentration of THC plays a significant role; higher potency strains increase the likelihood of these dissociative effects. The method of consumption also matters, as rapid absorption methods like dabbing or edibles can intensify THC’s effects.
Individual susceptibility is another element. People with pre-existing anxiety, panic disorders, or a history of trauma may be more prone to cannabis-induced derealization. Using cannabis during periods of significant distress can also heighten the risk. The user’s mental state (“set”) and environment (“setting”) also influence the experience. Mood, expectations, and physical surroundings can shape how cannabis affects them, potentially contributing to feelings of detachment if the set or setting are uncomfortable or anxiety-provoking.
Neurobiologically, THC interacts with the brain’s endocannabinoid system by binding to CB1 receptors. These receptors are abundant in areas of the brain involved in perception, mood, and memory. This interaction can alter the normal regulation of physiological and cognitive processes, leading to changes in how reality is perceived and potentially manifesting as derealization.
Managing Derealization and Seeking Support
When experiencing derealization, immediate strategies can help regain a sense of connection. Grounding techniques, such as the “5-4-3-2-1 method,” involve identifying five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste, to re-engage senses and focus on the present. Deep breathing exercises can also help calm the nervous system and refocus the mind. Reminding oneself that the feeling is temporary and linked to cannabis use can provide reassurance.
For individuals who frequently experience derealization after cannabis use, reducing or discontinuing consumption is often the most direct way to prevent recurrence. Cannabis use can worsen anxiety and other mental health conditions, which often co-occur with derealization. Avoiding other substances, such as alcohol or hallucinogens, can also be beneficial as they may exacerbate symptoms.
If derealization is persistent, causes significant distress, interferes with daily life, or if there are concerns about underlying mental health conditions, seeking professional help is important. A healthcare professional, like a doctor or therapist, can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate support. Therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help individuals understand and manage symptoms by addressing negative thought patterns and developing coping strategies. These therapies can also help process any trauma or anxiety that may contribute to derealization.