What Happens When You Sleep High on Weed?

What Happens When You Sleep High?

Marijuana is increasingly used as a remedy for sleep issues. Many people turn to cannabis for sleep, hoping it will help them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

But how does smoking weed really affect your sleep cycle? When you sleep after consuming marijuana, various effects can occur in your body, influenced by factors like the strain, dosage, and tolerance.

This article explores the effectiveness of cannabis as a sleep aid, its side effects, and the risks involved in using medical marijuana for sleep.

Marijuana and Sleep

Understanding the relationship between marijuana and sleep starts with knowing how it affects your sleep cycle. Sleep is divided into several stages, including REM sleep and non-REM sleep. REM sleep is the stage where dreaming occurs and is essential for mental health. Non-REM sleep includes stages of light sleep and deep sleep, both of which are crucial for physical restoration.

THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, impacts these sleep stages. Research shows that THC can reduce the amount of time spent in REM sleep. This reduction in REM sleep may result in fewer dreams, but it also means that your brain isn’t getting the full restorative benefits it needs from a natural sleep cycle.

Does Marijuana Help You Sleep?

Many people report that marijuana helps them fall asleep faster. But does it improve sleep quality overall? The effectiveness of cannabis for sleep can vary based on several factors, including the strain, dosage, and individual response.

Strain Differences

Different strains of marijuana have different effects on sleep. Indica strains are often recommended for sleep because they are known for their calming effects. Sativa strains, on the other hand, are more stimulating and may not be as effective for sleep.

The strain plays a significant role in how well marijuana helps you fall asleep and stay asleep.

Dosage

The dosage of marijuana also affects its effectiveness as a sleep aid. Lower doses may help some people relax and fall asleep, but higher doses can have the opposite effect. In fact, higher doses of THC can lead to increased anxiety, which can make it harder to fall asleep.

Side Effects of Using Cannabis for Sleep

While marijuana may help some people fall asleep faster, it’s important to consider the side effects and potential sleep problems it can cause. These may include:

• Fragmented or Disturbed Sleep: Waking up multiple times during the night, leading to poor sleep quality.
• Next-Day Grogginess: Feeling sluggish, dizzy, or disoriented the morning after using cannabis.
• Tolerance and Dependence: Needing higher doses to achieve the same sleep-inducing effects.

What Happens To Your Brain When You Sleep High?

Using marijuana leads to common side effects such as slowed breathing, increased heart rate, and relaxation. Aside from these, the brain undergoes several changes influenced by the active compounds in the drug, particularly THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

Neurochemical Effects

THC stimulates the release of dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, which contributes to the euphoric effects of marijuana. However, after the initial high, dopamine levels may drop, potentially affecting mood and motivation. Marijuana also interacts with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating sleep, mood, appetite, and pain.

Memory and Learning

Using marijuana can impair memory consolidation,  making it harder to retain new information or learn new skills. The reduction in REM sleep, which is linked to memory consolidation, also contributes to this effect.

Brain Activity

Marijuana can alter brain wave patterns during sleep. For example, it may reduce alpha waves (associated with wakeful relaxation) and increase delta waves (associated with deep sleep). These changes can influence how restful your sleep feels.

The reduction in REM sleep caused by marijuana can also affect how the brain processes emotions. This decrease might lead to issues with mood regulation, emotional resilience, and decision-making.

Risks of Using Marijuana for Sleep

For people suffering from chronic pain, marijuana may provide some relief, making it easier to fall asleep. The pain-relieving properties of cannabis can help reduce discomfort that might otherwise keep you awake at night.

Using marijuana for sleep may seem helpful, but it comes with risks that shouldn’t be overlooked. Some risks include long-term impact on sleep cycles, rebound insomnia, and other health risks that may affect the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

Marijuana use, especially without a prescription for medical marijuana, can carry legal risks depending on where you live.

Alternatives to Marijuana for Sleep

There are several ways to improve sleep quality without relying on cannabis.

Sleep Hygiene

Improving your sleep hygiene can have a significant impact on your sleep quality. This includes maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and optimizing your sleep environment for comfort.

Natural Sleep Aids

Natural sleep aids like melatonin, valerian root, or chamomile tea can help you fall asleep without the side effects associated with marijuana. These remedies support your body’s natural sleep cycle and can be a safer option for long-term use.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Insomnia

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is a proven method for treating sleep problems without medication. CBT-I helps you change negative thoughts and behaviors that interfere with sleep, leading to lasting improvements in sleep quality.

Marijuana Rehab Near Me

Marijuana can be a helpful tool for some people dealing with sleep issues, especially for those struggling with chronic pain. However, it’s essential to understand the risks and side effects before using cannabis for sleep. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your needs.

If you or someone you know is struggling with marijuana addiction, our state-of-the-art addiction treatment centers in Scottsdale offer a safe sanctuary for recovery. Begin the next stage of your recovery journey today and discover comprehensive treatment by connecting with our team.