Cannabis psychosis

There is growing evidence indicating a link between cannabis and psychotic conditions.

Cannabis use, particularly heavy and frequent use, has been linked to a condition called 'cannabis psychosis'. Episodes of cannabis psychosis are characterised by delusions, confusion, memory loss and hallucinations, and could last several days.

Cannabis can also bring forward pre-existing or latent psychosis. A person who is vulnerable or pre-disposed to depression or schizophrenia might have these conditions made worse. It can also trigger a psychotic episode in someone who already has a mental illness.

An Australian study, published 2006 in the British Journal of Psychiatry, showed that the more cannabis that a person with mental illness used, the worse their condition becomes. It also found that when they suffer a relapse in psychotic conditions, they were more likely to turn to cannabis to cope.