Marijuana and paranoia: how cannabis can trigger anxiety, distrust, and psychosis risk in some people

Cannabis use can be associated with paranoia, especially in people who are already prone to anxiety or psychosis. The relationship is often linked to THC dose and potency, individual vulnerability, and the context of use (for example, using high THC products or using while stressed can increase the chance of suspicious or frightening thoughts). For safety, the guidance emphasizes screening risk factors, avoiding high dose THC, and seeking professional help if paranoia or other concerning mental symptoms occur, rather than treating it as a normal side effect.