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Can cannabis cause psychosis in your loved one?

The short answer

Cannabis is linked to psychosis, and the risk is highest with daily, high-potency use and in young men.

It can also make existing psychosis worse. Calm, honest talks work better than ultimatums. Tell the treatment team about any use.

Call or text 988 any time, day or night.

Call 911 if there is immediate danger.

Last reviewed: Oct 26, 2026
Written by: Salleha Chaudhry, Founder, Inaya Health

What does the research say?

  • Daily use of high-potency cannabis (10% THC or more) was linked to about 5 times the odds of psychosis compared with never using (Di Forti et al., Lancet Psychiatry, 2019).
  • In Denmark, up to 30% of schizophrenia in men aged 21 to 30 might have been prevented without cannabis use disorder, if the link is causal (Hjorthoj et al., Psychological Medicine, 2023).

These studies show a strong link. They do not prove cannabis alone causes psychosis.

What are warning signs?

  • Hearing or seeing things others don't
  • New, fixed beliefs, like being watched
  • Sudden withdrawal, confused speech, or not sleeping

What can you do now?

  1. Call 988 if your loved one seems unsafe or out of touch with reality.

  2. Tell the doctor about any cannabis use, even if your loved one won't. You can always share information with clinicians (HIPAA FAQ 2095).

    What this step unlocks: better diagnosis and medication choices.

  3. Ask about a first-episode psychosis program (coordinated specialty care).

    What this step unlocks: early, team-based care (NIMH RAISE).

  4. Call SAMHSA's National Helpline for substance use treatment options.

    SAMHSA National Helpline1-800-662-4357

  5. Talk at a calm time. Say what you've seen, not what they are.

    What this step unlocks: a conversation instead of a fight.

Don't. Don't buy, share, or "allow" cannabis as a calming tool for a loved one with psychosis.

Where can you find help in your state?

Illinois | Wisconsin | DC | Maryland | Virginia | California

Related: after a crisis, when a loved one denies the illness, and when relatives deny the illness.

This is general information, not legal or medical advice.

FAQ

Q: Can cannabis cause psychosis?

Cannabis is strongly linked to psychosis, especially daily high-potency use, but studies do not prove it is the only cause.

Q: Who is most at risk?

Young men and people who use high-potency cannabis daily.

Q: Should I tell the doctor about cannabis use?

Yes. You can always share information with your loved one's clinicians.

Q: Can cannabis make psychosis worse?

Yes. It can worsen symptoms in someone who already has psychosis.

Sources

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