Greening Out: The Modern Hazards Of Cannabis Use
September 27, 2024
"Greening out" is a slang saying alluding to a state of feeling sick or suffering unfavorable effects after overindulging on cannabis, particularly when the THC level is high. As cannabis has grown more powerful, this occurrence has become noticeably more common. Greening out usually features symptoms such as anxiety, nausea, vomiting, sweating, dizziness, and sometimes even panic attacks.
We’ll investigate what greening out feels like, how to circumvent it, and the perils of cannabis use. Being aware of the potential health risks and knowing how to use cannabis in a sensible manner is vital.
What Are The Possible Dangers Of Cannabis Use?
Although marijuana can offer benefits under medical supervision, the chances of it leading to a substance use disorder are considerable. Some risks linked to cannabis include:
- Impeded memory and cognitive function: Ongoing marijuana use may make it harder to retain information, learn, and concentrate.
- Heightened risk of psychiatric disorders: Cannabis use, particularly in high doses, has been connected to anxiety, depression, and even psychosis in certain users.
- Dependency and substance use disorder: Even though it’s deemed not as habit-forming as other drugs, cannabis may still lead to dependency, where a person feels unable to live without it.
- Respiratory issues: Smoking marijuana might cause irritation of the lungs and additional respiratory ailments, similar to the results of smoking tobacco.
Awareness of these hazards is critical, especially for people predisposed to dependency or mental health conditions.
What Does Greening Out Mean?
Greening out, also termed "whiteying," alludes to the physical impact of ingesting too much marijuana in a brief time. Whiteying is how the stoner subculture sees, and occasionally mocks, the visible greening consequences. Users might feel distressed, very sleepy, and unable to appreciate the high they were after.
In low doses, cannabis is able to relax the body and heighten senses. Slightly increased doses could give rise to new viewpoints and the infamous "munchies." On the other hand, larger amounts elevate the danger of greening out, prompting various distressing symptoms.
What Are The Symptoms Of Greening Out?
Greening out typically arises with a combination of the following symptoms:
- Stomach issues, nausea, and vomiting: An overindulgence of THC can cause stomach trouble. While this feeling often passes, in some cases, it may prompt vomiting, specifically if someone has taken a substantial quantity of cannabis.
- Distinct paleness, shaking, and sweating: Muscle shakes and quivers, particularly in the legs, are commonplace after taking excessive THC. An absence of color in the face and sweating are also frequent symptoms.
When Will Greening Out Most Likely Occur?
Greening out can happen to any person who consumes cannabis, regardless of experience. Even so, eager beginners are much more at risk. Here are circumstances when greening out is more likely to take place:
- New users: Those new to cannabis are still figuring out how it influences their bodies. This may lead to overconsumption, specifically when users are determined to get the full effects.
- Empty stomach: Smoking without eating beforehand can elevate the likelihood as there isn’t anything to help absorb the substance.
- High-potency strains: Veteran smokers searching for new highs might experiment with dabs or high-potency edibles, which might result in greening out.
- Edibles: Edibles are often associated with greening out. Unlike smoking, which delivers a rapid high, edibles start slower but last quite a bit longer—often 6-8 hours. The potent, long-lasting effects can cause the experience to be overpowering.
What To Do If Someone Is Greening Out
Even though it’s usually short-lived, greening out isn’t pleasant. If you've been through it, you may have thought, "Is there a possibility I could die from this?" Thankfully, while it might feel horrendous, it’s not lethal. Even so, there are steps to help yourself or a friend feel better:
- Quit consuming: If you or another person is greening out, stop the use ofcannabis at once.
- Get fresh air: Taking a break outside for a bit of air may reduce feelings of dizziness and nausea.
- Relax and breathe: Take deep breaths and try to stay calm. Going into a panic will only make the situation worse.
- Get comfortable: Find a comfy area to lie down and let the effects go away. Resting will facilitate the recovery process.
- Keep calm: Don’t forget that the distressing feelings will subside in time. Don’t let panic take hold and speak with a friend for reassurance.
Get Support For Cannabis Use
Do you sometimes green out? Do you feel like you can’t stop using cannabis regardless of the unpleasant consequences? If you would like to halt this downward spiral, The Counseling Center is standing by to help. Contact us 866-850-5001 at any hour, and we’ll get you the guidance you require, no matter if that’s detox, inpatient rehab, or outpatient treatment.