When you suffer from psychotic episodes, your mind isn’t attached to reality. Mental illnesses aren’t the only cause of this state of mind; many people can experience this from drug use or physical trauma. With the possibility of severe longterm side effects associated with antipsychotic medications, it should come to no surprise that many are choosing to use cannabis oil instead.

While there is evidence that suggests that THC can trigger psychosis, cannabidiol as shown to counteract those effects which have lead to researchers studying its effects on psychosis in general. Studies have shown that a malfunctioning endocannabinoid system may be behind psychotic symptoms, which is why CBD can have such powerful benefits.

What Disorders Harbor Psychotic Symptoms?

While schizophrenia is one of the most popular disorders associated with psychosis, it is found in other disorders as well. Bi-polar disorder, delusional disorder, and depression can also bring on psychosis, as well as drug abuse and head trauma. Experiencing something traumatic or undergoing extreme stress can also bring up psychotic symptoms. However, they don’t tend to last very long. It’s important to know the signs of psychosis to be aware whether you or a loved one are suffering from this condition.

Symptoms Of Psychosis

• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Incoherent or Nonsense Speech
• Inappropriate Behavior
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Social Withdrawal
• Lack of Motivation
• Difficult Functioning Overall

Psychosis And The Brain

The part of the brain that is affected by psychosis is the basal ganglia. To be more specific, there is higher connectivity between the substania nigra and the striatum. There are cannabinoid receptors all over the basal ganglia which is why cannabidiol is so effective.

How CBD Helps With Psychosis

The research states that people who have psychotic episodes have more anandamide in their brain fluid. Researchers believe that this is the brain's way of trying to combat the psychosis. In further studies, while testing patients who suffer from psychotic episodes taking CBD, they noticed an increase in anandamide levels which has been associated with reduced symptoms.

Having a psychotic disorder can be terrifying not knowing what is real and what isn’t. Delusions can make people experience the worst reality. If you are struggling with a disorder that is making you delusional and you want to get off your meds, talk to your doctor first before just switching over. Getting off of medication incorrectly can exacerbate your symptoms. Taking CBD while you get off of them may be suggested and could change your life for the better.