What is greening out?

"Greening out" refers to a negative reaction to cannabis use, characterized by intense feelings of anxiety, panic, and discomfort. It's not a medically recognized term, but it's commonly used among cannabis users to describe this unpleasant experience. It's important to distinguish it from simply feeling high, which is a subjective experience that can be pleasant or unpleasant depending on the person and the circumstances.

Here's what we know about greening out:

• Symptoms: Symptoms can vary widely but typically include intense anxiety, paranoia, racing heart, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and feelings of fear or dread. Some users report feeling detached from reality or experiencing visual distortions. The experience can be extremely overwhelming and frightening.

• Causes: Several factors can contribute to greening out:

  • High Potency Cannabis: High THC content (the psychoactive component of cannabis) significantly increases the likelihood of a negative reaction. Concentrates like shatter, wax, or edibles, which often contain very high levels of THC, are particularly risky.
  • Individual Sensitivity: People react differently to cannabis. Some individuals are naturally more sensitive to its effects and are therefore more prone to experiencing negative side effects. Pre-existing anxiety or mental health conditions can exacerbate the risk.
  • Set and Setting: The environment and the user's mental state play a crucial role. Using cannabis in a stressful or unfamiliar environment can increase the chances of a negative reaction. Using it alone can also be riskier.
  • Method of Consumption: Edibles are often associated with more intense and longer-lasting effects, increasing the risk of greening out compared to smoking or vaping. This is because edibles are metabolized differently by the body.
  • Tolerance: People with a low tolerance to cannabis are more likely to experience negative side effects.

• Treatment: There's no specific treatment for greening out, but the symptoms generally subside on their own within a few hours. Strategies to manage the experience include:

  • Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or mindfulness can help manage anxiety and panic.
  • Distraction: Focusing on something else, like listening to calming music or engaging in a quiet activity, can help shift attention away from the negative feelings.
  • Hydration and Fresh Air: Staying hydrated and getting fresh air can help alleviate some symptoms.
  • Supportive Environment: Having a trusted friend or family member present can offer comfort and reassurance.

• Important Note: If the symptoms are severe or prolonged, seeking medical attention is crucial.

It's vital to remember that cannabis is a psychoactive substance and its effects can be unpredictable. Starting with low doses, especially with edibles, and using in a comfortable, familiar environment with trusted people around are crucial steps to minimizing the risk of greening out. If you have any concerns about cannabis use, it's advisable to talk to a healthcare professional.