Greening Out: The Modern Risks Of Cannabis Use
September 27, 2024
"Greening out" is a new saying alluding to a state of feeling sick or suffering unpleasant effects after overindulging on cannabis, specifically when the THC level is high. As cannabis has become more potent, this phenomenon has become increasingly common. Greening out typically involves symptoms like nausea, vomiting, dizziness, anxiety, sweating, and sometimes even panic attacks.
Keep reading to investigate what greening out feels like, how to circumvent it, and the hazards of cannabis use. Being knowledgeable of the potential risks and knowing how to use cannabis in a responsible manner is essential.
What Are The Known Risks Of Marijuana Use?
While marijuana can offer benefits under medical guidance, the chances of it causing a substance use disorder are considerable. Some risks connected to cannabis include:
- Impeded memory and cognitive ability: Regular marijuana use can make it difficult to retain information, learn, and concentrate.
- Elevated threat of psychiatric disorders: Cannabis use, especially in higher doses, has been linked to anxiety, depression, and bouts of psychosis in at-risk individuals.
- Dependency and substance use disorder: Although it’s thought to be not as habit-forming as other drugs, cannabis might still cause a dependency, where a person feels unable to function without consuming it.
- Respiratory difficulties: Cannabis use through smoking may cause irritation of the lungs and additional respiratory ailments, comparable to the effects of smoking tobacco.
Being cognizant of these hazards is vital, particularly for individuals more vulnerable to dependency or mental health disorders.
What Is Greening Out?
Greening out, also known as "whiteying," is a reference to the physical side effects of consuming too much marijuana in a limited time. Whiteying is the way the cannabis-using subculture sees, and sometimes mocks, the noticeable greening ramifications. Users might feel uncomfortable, very drowsy, and unable to appreciate the high they were after.
In lower doses, cannabis may relax users and amplify senses. Slightly increased doses could give rise to new perspectives and the well-known "munchies." However, sizeable amounts increase the threat of greening out, leading to various unwanted symptoms.
What Does Greening Out Look Like?
Greening out generally manifests with a mix of the following symptoms:
- Stomach issues, nausea, and vomiting: An overindulgence of THC may upset the stomach. While this often subsides, in some instances, it can lead to vomiting, particularly if the user has taken a large amount of cannabis.
- Distinct paleness, sweating, and shaking: Muscle shakes and twitches, specifically in the legs, are common after ingesting a great deal of THC. A loss of color in the face and sweating are also typical symptoms.
When Is Greening Out Most Likely To Occur?
Greening out can happen to anyone who takes cannabis, no matter their experience. But, new users are more likely to experience it. Here are situations when greening out is more likely to occur:
- Novice users: People new to cannabis are still figuring out how it affects their bodies. This might lead to excess consumption, especially when individuals are determined to experience the full force of the drug.
- Empty stomach: Ingesting on an empty stomach can elevate the odds as there is no food to help absorb the substance.
- High-potency strains: Experienced smokers searching for more intense highs might try dabs or high-potency edibles, which can lead to greening out.
- Edibles: Edibles are often linked to greening out. Dissimilar to smoking, which delivers a quick high, edibles take longer to kick in but last quite a bit longer—frequently as long as 8 hours. The intense, long-lasting effects may cause the experience to be overpowering.
What Actions To Take If A Person Is Greening Out
Although it’s usually short-lived, greening out is not pleasant. If you've endured it, you might have wondered, "Is there a chance I could die from this?" Thankfully, while it feels terrible, it’s not lethal. Even so, there are some things you can do to help yourself or another person feel better:
- Quit using: If you or someone you’re with is greening out, halt the use ofcannabis at once.
- Get some air: Going out-of-doors for some air might lower feelings of nausea and dizziness.
- Breathe and relax: Breathe in slowly and make an effort to calm down. Losing control will only worsen the situation.
- Get comfortable: Find a comfortable place to lie down and let the effects pass. Resting will aid the recovery process.
- Remain calm: Know that the distressing feelings will eventually subside. Avoid letting panic take over and speak with a friend for reassurance.
Request Guidance For Cannabis Use Near Fair Lawn
Do you sometimes green out? Do you feel like you aren’t able to quit taking cannabis regardless of the unpleasant effects? If you would like to halt this cycle, The Counseling Center at Fair Lawn is standing by to help. Contact us 201-389-5326 night or day, and we’ll get you the guidance you require, no matter if that’s detox, inpatient rehab, or outpatient treatment.