Why Those Diagnosed with Bipolar Shouldn’t Use Marijuana

Marijuana, or cannabis, is sometimes used by people diagnosed with bipolar disorder and other mental disorders. Even more so now that cannabis has become decriminalized and more readily available in most states —with quite a few allowing it to be used for recreational purposes. Still, marijuana is illegal at the federal level, which means there is minimal country-wide regulation on the quality of this substance in many states. 

More than 4% of Americans experience symptoms of bipolar disorder sometime during their lifespan. Being bipolar means you have unusal changes in mood, energy, activity levels, which can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks. In general, marijuana is known for its euphoric and relaxing effects, which can make it attractive to those with bipolar disorder. While this might provide some short-term benefits, it can do more harm than good in the long run. If you are bipolar, you should not be using marijuana.

Marijuana May Increase the Chance of Becoming Bipolar 

Early marijuana use is linked to the onset of a range of cognitive and psychological problems.

Worldwide, adolescents are known for using marijuana. In 2019, reports on high school marijuana use indicated that 37% of U.S. high school students had used it in their lifetime, and 22% used it in the past 30 days. These statistics are alarming because the brains of children in this age group are still developing. This early use puts them at risk of permanent psychological effects of marijuana, especially when used regularly and long term.

Some of the negative consequences of marijuana use that teenagers face include: 

Previous studies have shown an association between marijuana use and bipolar disorder. A more recent study suggests adolescent cannabis use and onset of bipolar disorder. In adults, marijuana use has been linked to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia following psychosis that was caused by substance abuse. 

Marijuana Is a Risk Factor for Manic Episode  

Bipolar disorder is also called manic-depressive illness because patients experience intense mood swings. These range from feeling elated (manic episode) to feeling down (depressed episode) or a combination of both (mixed episode). Out of the three main types of bipolar disorders, bipolar disorder commonly involves depressive and mixed episodes but is characterized by more severe manic episodes that can last seven days or require hospitalization.

Marijuana Makes Bipolar Disorder Worse 

Not only can cannabis increase the likelihood of severe bipolar manic episodes, but it also can make bipolar symptoms worse overall. A recent study on cannabis use in bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder found that marijuana use can increase the severity, type, and frequency of all episodes, including manic episodes, depressive episodes, and mixed episodes. In addition, bipolar marijuana users showed an increased risk of suicidal behavior and decreased function in both bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder. 

Marijuana is More Commonly Used by Bipolar People

There is no agreeance among researchers that marijuana is a gateway drug — a substance that can lead you to use more dangerous drugs. However, the previously-mentioned research on marijuana and bipolar disorder uncovered a higher risk of other types of substance misuse and abuse. Those who were users of marijuana and bipolar were more likely to use tobacco (80%) or alcohol (55%) as compared to those who did not use marijuana. Bipolar cannabis users also showed an increased frequency of using various substances. This indicates that users may have a propensity for becoming dependent on substances to help them cope with bipolar. 

A study examined patients who had been hospitalized for bipolar disorder. It found that marijuana and bipolar were associated with not adhering to prescribed treatments. Failure to take their medications as intended means bipolar patients are more likely to experience worse outcomes than those who do not use cannabis. This can lead to increased severity of symptoms and decreased response to treatments. 

Are you bipolar and a user of marijuana? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for more information about the treatment programs we offer.  

Treatment Options for Marijuana and Bipolar Disorder 

Many people with mental health issues perceive that marijuana helps with their symptoms. Of those who reported using cannabis to manage symptoms, more than 90% of marijuana users were bipolar. A significant number of bipolar users (10%) sought treatment for adverse effects of marijuana, like panic attacks, nausea, and dizziness. It’s clear that marijuana and bipolar do not mix well, so it is vital for you to consider the various treatment options. 

Pharmacological Therapy 

Psychosocial Therapy 

Get Treatment for Marijuana and Bipolar Today! 

As marijuana becomes more popular medically and recreationally, it stands to reason why many people with bipolar may use it to suppress their symptoms. Unfortunately, mixing marijuana and bipolar disorder can lead to a myriad of problems. These could include everything from making bipolar symptoms worse and increasing the frequency of manic episodes to not taking required bipolar medications and opting for other dangerous drugs. The good news is that there are many treatment options that you can take advantage of, including pharmacological therapy and psychosocial therapy.

At Transformations Treatment Center, we accept substance abuse and primary mental health clients. We can help you or a loved one, whether struggling with both marijuana and bipolar as well as one or the other. Speak with an expert at Transformations Treatment Center by calling (877) 711-4551.