The #1 Powerful Guide to What Happens When You Sleep High in 2024

Understanding the Effects of Sleeping High on Marijuana

What happens when you sleep high on marijuana? When you sleep high after smoking weed or consuming cannabis edibles, you may experience several immediate and long-term effects. Here’s a quick summary:

• Immediate Effects:

  • Euphoria and relaxation
  • Altered perception
  • Increased heart rate
  • Dry mouth
  • Impaired coordination and memory

• Long-Term Effects:

  • Respiratory issues
  • Cognitive effects
  • Mental health problems
  • Addiction and withdrawal symptoms

Understanding these effects is crucial because while marijuana can help with relaxation and pain relief, it can also disrupt your sleep quality and lead to dependence.

My name is Ben Trapskin, and I founded Yawnder to help people achieve better sleep. Having struggled with sleep issues myself, I’ve researched and written extensively about sleep and its impact on health, including what happens when you sleep high on marijuana.

What Happens When You Sleep High?

Short-Term Effects

When you sleep high, the immediate effects can be quite noticeable. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the active compound in marijuana, plays a significant role in these changes. Here are some common short-term effects:

Euphoria and Relaxation: Many people experience a sense of euphoria and deep relaxation. This can make it easier to fall asleep initially.

Altered Perception: THC can change your sensory perception, making time feel distorted and altering your sense of space.

Increased Heart Rate: Smoking marijuana can cause an increased heart rate, known as tachycardia. This can be a concern for individuals with heart conditions.

Dry Mouth and Red Eyes: Commonly referred to as “cottonmouth,” marijuana can cause dryness in the mouth and throat. Your eyes may also become red and irritated.

Impaired Coordination: Your motor skills and coordination can be affected, making it difficult to perform tasks that require precision.

Impaired Memory: Short-term memory and concentration can be impaired while you’re high, which might affect your ability to remember your dreams.

Long-Term Effects

While the short-term effects might seem manageable, the long-term effects of sleeping high can be more concerning. Let’s break down some of these impacts:

Respiratory Issues: Regular marijuana use can lead to respiratory problems, such as chronic bronchitis and respiratory infections. This is due to the inhalation of smoke and other irritants.

Cognitive Effects: Prolonged use can impair memory, attention, and other cognitive functions. This can affect your ability to process and retain new information.

Mental Health Effects: Long-term marijuana use has been linked to an increased risk of developing mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, and psychosis.

Addiction and Withdrawal: Marijuana can be habit-forming. Withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability, sleep disturbances, decreased appetite, and cravings, can occur if you try to quit.

Sleep Patterns and REM Sleep Suppression: THC can alter your sleep architecture, particularly by suppressing REM sleep. REM sleep is crucial for processing emotions and consolidating memories. Reduced REM sleep can lead to less restful sleep and cognitive impairments over time.

Dependency Risks: Using marijuana regularly to fall asleep can lead to dependency. You might find it difficult to sleep without it, creating a cycle of reliance.

Cognitive Impact

The cognitive impact of long-term marijuana use shouldn’t be underestimated. Studies have shown that frequent use can lead to:

• Impaired Memory: Difficulty in forming new memories and recalling information.
• Reduced Attention Span: Trouble focusing on tasks and maintaining attention.
• Slower Cognitive Processing: Slower reaction times and reduced problem-solving abilities.

Understanding these effects can help you make informed decisions about using marijuana as a sleep aid.

Next, let’s dig into the benefits and risks of using marijuana for sleep.

Benefits and Risks of Using Marijuana for Sleep

Using marijuana to help with sleep is a mixed bag. It comes with both benefits and risks. Here’s what you need to know:

Benefits

1. Relaxation: Marijuana, especially strains high in THC, can make you feel relaxed. This can help you wind down at the end of a long day.

2. Reduced Anxiety: Some people find that marijuana helps reduce anxiety, making it easier to fall asleep. This is especially true for those who struggle with nighttime worries.

3. Pain Relief: Marijuana can be effective for pain management. If chronic pain keeps you awake, marijuana might help you get the rest you need.

Risks

1. Impaired Sleep Quality: While marijuana can help you fall asleep, it might not improve the quality of your sleep. Studies show that it can reduce the time spent in REM sleep, which is crucial for cognitive functions like memory and learning.

2. Disruption of REM Sleep: Reduced REM sleep means fewer dreams and less restorative sleep. Over time, this can affect your overall health and well-being.

3. Next-Day Effects: Waking up groggy or feeling “hungover” is common for some users. This can affect your alertness and increase the risk of accidents.

4. Drug Dependence: Regular use of marijuana can lead to dependence. About 3 in 10 users develop a marijuana use disorder, according to the CDC. This makes it hard to quit and can lead to withdrawal symptoms like irritability and insomnia.

5. Mental Health Issues: Long-term use can worsen existing mental health problems. It can increase the risk of anxiety, depression, and even psychosis in some cases.

Understanding these benefits and risks can help you decide whether using marijuana for sleep is right for you. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Next, we’ll explore how different strains of marijuana affect sleep.

How Different Strains Affect Sleep

Indica Strains

Indica strains are often praised for their relaxing and sedative effects. They are typically high in a terpene called myrcene, which contributes to their calming properties. Myrcene is known for its earthy aroma and is believed to improve the sedative effects of THC.

• Relaxation and Sedation: Indica strains are commonly associated with a “body high,” making you feel heavy and relaxed. This can be ideal for winding down after a stressful day.
• Pain Management: Many users report that indica strains help alleviate chronic pain, making it easier to fall asleep.
• Insomnia Relief: Due to their sedative effects, indica strains are often recommended for those struggling with insomnia. Strains like Northern Lights and Granddaddy Purple are popular choices.

Sativa Strains

Sativa strains, on the other hand, are known for their energizing and uplifting effects. They usually have higher levels of terpenes like limonene and terpinolene, which can make you feel more alert and creative.

• Energizing Effects: Sativa strains can boost your energy and creativity, making them a poor choice for bedtime. They are better suited for daytime use.
• Creativity Boost: Some people use sativa strains to improve creativity and focus. This can be great for brainstorming sessions but not for getting restful sleep.
• Potential Sleep Disruption: Due to their stimulating effects, sativa strains can keep you awake and make it hard to fall asleep. Avoid using these strains close to bedtime.

Hybrid Strains

Hybrid strains are a mix of indica and sativa genetics, offering a balance of effects. They can be custom to provide the best of both worlds, depending on their specific genetic makeup.

• Balanced Effects: Hybrids can offer relaxation without complete sedation or a mild energy boost without overstimulation. This makes them versatile for various needs.
• Customized Experience: Depending on the dominant strain, hybrids can be more relaxing or more energizing. Strains like Gelato offer a balanced high that combines euphoria with relaxation.

THC and CBD Effects

• THC: High-THC strains can induce euphoria and relaxation but may also cause anxiety and paranoia in some users, especially in high doses. They can alter your sleep cycles, often reducing the amount of REM sleep.
• CBD: High-CBD strains are less likely to make you feel “high” but can help reduce anxiety and lower cortisol levels, promoting better sleep. Strains like Harlequin offer a balanced ratio of CBD and THC, providing mild sedation without intense psychoactive effects.

Understanding how different strains affect sleep can help you choose the right one for your needs. Next, we’ll dive into the role of CBD in sleep.

The Role of CBD in Sleep

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the main compounds found in cannabis. Unlike THC, it doesn’t get you high. Instead, it has several effects that can help with sleep.

CBD Effects

CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system helps regulate sleep, mood, and other functions. By influencing the ECS, CBD can help balance these processes.

Cortisol Reduction

Cortisol is a stress hormone. High levels can keep you awake at night. Research shows that CBD can lower cortisol levels, making it easier to fall asleep. For example, a study found that CBD significantly reduced cortisol in participants, promoting a more restful night.

Anxiety Alleviation

Anxiety is a common cause of insomnia. CBD has been shown to reduce anxiety by interacting with receptors in the brain. This can help calm your mind, making it easier to drift off to sleep. A survey of CBD users found that many reported reduced anxiety and better sleep quality.

Sleep Promotion

CBD can also help improve overall sleep quality. It has been found to increase the amount of time spent in deep sleep stages. Deep sleep is crucial for feeling refreshed in the morning. Additionally, CBD may help those with sleep disorders like REM sleep behavior disorder and excessive daytime sleepiness.

For example, a study on individuals with insomnia found that CBD helped them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. This makes it a promising natural remedy for sleep issues.

By lowering cortisol, reducing anxiety, and promoting deeper sleep, CBD can be a valuable tool for improving sleep quality. Next, we’ll explore the potential for dependency and withdrawal when using marijuana for sleep.

Potential for Dependency and Withdrawal

When using marijuana for sleep, there’s a real risk of dependency. Regular use can make your body rely on THC to fall asleep. Over time, this can lead to needing more of the substance to achieve the same effect, a phenomenon known as tolerance.

Dependency Risks

Dependency on marijuana can develop faster than many people realize. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 9% of adult marijuana users and 17% of those who started as teens will develop a dependency. This means that nearly 1 in 10 adult users could find themselves unable to quit without experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

Withdrawal Symptoms

If you become dependent and then stop using marijuana, you might face withdrawal symptoms. These can include:

• Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep without marijuana.
• Restlessness: Feeling agitated and unable to relax.
• Anxiety: Increased levels of anxiety, sometimes severe.

These symptoms can make it very challenging to quit, as they often drive individuals back to using marijuana to alleviate their discomfort.

Case Study: Jane’s Experience

Take Jane, for example. She started using marijuana to help with sleep during college. Initially, it worked wonders. She fell asleep quickly and felt rested. But over time, Jane found she needed to smoke more to get the same effect. When she tried to stop, she couldn’t sleep at all and felt constantly anxious. Jane realized she had become dependent.

Insomnia and Restlessness

Insomnia is one of the most common withdrawal symptoms. When you stop using marijuana, your body needs time to readjust to falling asleep naturally. This can lead to several sleepless nights, which can be very frustrating. Restlessness often accompanies insomnia, making it even harder to relax and fall asleep.

Anxiety

Anxiety is another significant withdrawal symptom. Marijuana can mask underlying anxiety issues, and when you stop using it, these issues can resurface, sometimes more than before. This heightened anxiety can make it even more challenging to quit marijuana.

Seeking Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with marijuana dependency, it’s important to seek professional help. Treatment options are available, and many people find success through a combination of therapy and support groups.

Next, we’ll look at common sleep disorders and how marijuana use fits into the picture.

Common Sleep Disorders and Marijuana Use

Understanding how marijuana interacts with common sleep disorders can help you make informed decisions about its use. Let’s explore how marijuana affects conditions like insomnia, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome, and parasomnias.

Insomnia

Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, affecting millions of people. It involves difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. Many people use marijuana to combat insomnia because THC can help you fall asleep faster. However, long-term use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. This can disrupt your natural sleep cycle and degrade sleep quality over time.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea involves repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. There are two main types: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA). While some studies suggest that THC can reduce sleep apnea episodes, the evidence is not conclusive. Moreover, smoking marijuana can irritate the airways, potentially worsening OSA symptoms.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks. Some narcoleptics use marijuana to manage symptoms like cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness). While THC might help with symptom management, it can also impair cognitive function and exacerbate daytime sleepiness, complicating the condition.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. This usually happens at night, making it difficult to fall asleep. Some people find relief from RLS symptoms using marijuana, as it can relax muscles and reduce discomfort. However, the relief is often temporary and may require increasing doses over time.

Parasomnias

Parasomnias are abnormal behaviors during sleep, such as sleepwalking, night terrors, and sleep talking. The impact of marijuana on parasomnias is less studied, but it can potentially worsen these conditions by disrupting the natural sleep cycle. THC’s effect on REM sleep could also exacerbate night terrors and vivid dreams.

Understanding how marijuana affects these common sleep disorders can help you weigh the pros and cons. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Next, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about sleeping while high.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sleeping High

Is it Safe to Sleep While High?

Sleeping while high on marijuana is generally considered safe for most people. However, it can have some side effects:

• Impaired Sleep Quality: Marijuana, especially THC, can disrupt your sleep cycle, particularly REM sleep. This can lead to feeling less rested even after a full night’s sleep.
• Next-Day Effects: You might wake up feeling groggy or less alert, which can affect your daily activities.
• Potential Dependence: Regular use can lead to dependency, making it harder to sleep without marijuana.
• Mental Health Impact: For some, marijuana can worsen anxiety or other mental health issues.

Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about using marijuana for sleep.

Can You Sleep Off a High?

Sleeping off a high is a common approach, but it doesn’t necessarily shorten the duration of being high. Here’s why:

• THC in the Bloodstream: The THC remains in your bloodstream for a set period, typically 3-4 hours for smoking and up to 12 hours for edibles.
• No Impact from Sleep: Whether you’re awake or asleep, the THC will metabolize at the same rate.

So, while sleep might help you feel better, it won’t speed up the process of sobering up.

Why Do I Still Feel High After Sleeping?

Feeling high after sleeping can happen, especially if you consumed a strong dose or an edible. Here’s what might be happening:

• High Potency: Strong strains or high doses of THC can have prolonged effects.
• Edibles: These can take longer to metabolize, extending the duration of the high.
• Sleep Duration: If you didn’t sleep long enough, the THC might still be active in your system.

If you frequently feel high after sleeping, consider adjusting your dosage or the timing of your marijuana use. Always prioritize safety and consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Conclusion

Understanding what happens when you sleep high is essential for making informed decisions about marijuana use. While some strains can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, others may disrupt your sleep patterns and impact your REM sleep. High doses of THC can lead to impaired coordination, memory issues, and even next-day drowsiness.

The long-term effects of using marijuana for sleep include potential respiratory issues, cognitive effects, and mental health concerns. It’s crucial to weigh these risks against the short-term benefits like relaxation, reduced anxiety, and pain relief. Dependency and withdrawal symptoms are also important factors to consider.

Consulting a medical professional is vital. They can help you determine if marijuana is a suitable sleep aid for you and guide you on the appropriate strains and dosages. Self-medicating without professional advice can lead to more harm than good.

At Yawnder, we are committed to helping you achieve better sleep. Our expertise in sleep products and our sleep study services can provide you with personalized recommendations for improving your sleep quality.

In summary, while marijuana can offer temporary sleep benefits, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and consult healthcare providers for custom advice. Your long-term health and well-being should always come first.