Greening Out: The Growing Risks Of Cannabis Use
September 27, 2024
"Greening out" is a slang phrase referencing a state of feeling nauseous or suffering adverse effects after overindulging on cannabis, especially when the THC content is high. As cannabis has grown more powerful, this phenomenon has become noticeably more prevalent. Greening out usually includes symptoms like dizziness, nausea, vomiting, sweating, anxiety, and even panic.
We’ll investigate what greening out feels like, how to circumvent it, and the hazards of marijuana use. Being knowledgeable of the potential threats and knowing how to take cannabis in a responsible manner is essential.
What Are The Potential Risks Of Cannabis Use?
Although marijuana can be beneficial under medical supervision, the odds of it leading to a substance use disorder are significant. Some risks linked to marijuana include:
- Impacted memory and cognitive function: Ongoing marijuana use might make it harder to learn, retain information, and focus.
- Heightened risk of psychiatric disorders: Cannabis use, especially in larger doses, has been linked to anxiety, depression, and even psychosis in certain users.
- Dependency and addiction: Although considered not as addictive as other substances, cannabis can still lead to dependency, where users feel unable to live without using.
- Respiratory difficulties: Cannabis use through smoking may cause lung irritation and more respiratory problems, comparable to the impact of smoking tobacco.
Being aware of these dangers is vital, particularly for those more prone to dependency or mental illness.
What Is Greening Out?
Greening out, also termed "whiteying," is a reference to the physical impact of consuming too much marijuana in a short time. Whiteying is how the cannabis-using subculture looks at, and sometimes mocks, the noticeable greening consequences. Users could feel uncomfortable, very drowsy, and unable to enjoy the high they were after.
In small doses, cannabis is able to induce relaxation and heighten senses. Slightly higher doses could give rise to new perspectives and the infamous "munchies." On the other hand, sizeable doses pose the threat of greening out, leading to a variety of unpleasant symptoms.
How Does Greening Out Appear?
Greening out generally manifests with an assortment of these symptoms:
- Upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting: Too much THC can cause stomach trouble. While this often goes away, in some situations, it might be a precursor for vomiting, especially if the individual has taken a significant quantity of cannabis.
- Distinct paleness, sweating, and shaking: Muscle twitches and shakes, specifically in the legs, are normal after taking a great deal of THC. An absence of color in the face and sweating are also frequent symptoms.
When Is Greening Out Most Likely To Occur?
Greening out can happen to anyone who consumes cannabis, no matter their experience. However, eager beginners are more prone to experience it. Here are circumstances when greening out is more likely to occur:
- New users: Individuals new to cannabis are still learning how it affects their bodies. This may lead to overconsumption, particularly when users are determined to experience the full effect of the drug.
- Empty stomach: Taking cannabis without eating earlier can elevate the likelihood as there isn’t any food to help absorb the substance.
- More powerful products: Veteran smokers searching for stronger highs might try dabs or high-potency edibles, which might lead to greening out.
- Edibles: Edibles are commonly associated with greening out. Unlike smoking, which delivers a swift high, edibles start slower but last a good deal longer—often up to 8 hours. The intense, long-lasting effects can make the sensation overpowering.
What Might You Do If A Person Is Greening Out
Even though it’s usually short-lived, greening out is not pleasant. If you've endured it, you may have asked yourself, "Is there a possibility I could die from this?" Thankfully, while it may feel terrible, it’s not a threat to your life. Even so, there are steps to help yourself or someone else feel better:
- Stop using: If you or someone you’re with is greening out, stop the use ofcannabis right away.
- Get some air: Stepping outdoors for fresh air may decrease feelings of dizziness and nausea.
- Remember to breathe: Take deep breaths and attempt to calm down. Losing control will only worsen the situation.
- Take a rest: Find a comfortable place to recline and let the effects go away. Resting will facilitate the recovery process.
- Remain calm: Don’t forget that the distressing feelings will end. Don’t let panic take over and speak with a friend for reassurance.
Request Support For Cannabis Use Near Roxbury
Do you occasionally green out? Do you feel like you can’t stop using cannabis despite the unpleasant consequences? If you wish to stop this cycle, The Counseling Center at Roxbury-Succasunna is here to help. Contact us 862-707-2469 day or night, and we’ll provide the support you need, whether that’s inpatient rehab, outpatient treatment, or detox.