Using Cannabis to Escape Pain or Trauma May Increase Paranoia
A study led by King’s College London and the University of Bath found that people using cannabis to cope with emotional pain, trauma, or anxiety face a significantly higher risk of developing paranoia compared to recreational users. Participants who used cannabis for self-soothing reasons consumed higher levels of THC, and those with childhood trauma were more likely to experience heightened paranoia later in life.
Researchers from King’s College London and the University of Bath published findings in *BMJ Mental Health* and *Psychological Medicine* linking cannabis use for emotional distress to increased paranoia. The study, part of the *Cannabis & Me* project, analyzed data from over 3,300 adults who had used cannabis, finding that those who turned to it for anxiety, depression, or trauma reported higher paranoia levels than recreational users. Participants who used cannabis to self-medicate consumed an average of 206 THC units weekly—equivalent to 10–17 joints—with higher consumption linked to greater mental health risks. Modern cannabis products, now far stronger than decades ago, were cited as a contributing factor to increased paranoia. The study also revealed a strong correlation between childhood trauma and paranoia, particularly among those who used cannabis to cope. Over half of participants reported past trauma, including emotional abuse or household conflict, which intensified paranoia risks when combined with cannabis use. Lead researcher Dr. Giulia Trotta noted this was the first large-scale study examining the interplay between childhood trauma, cannabis use, and paranoia in the general population. Senior author Professor Marta Di Forti warned that while many use cannabis to relieve suffering, it may worsen psychological effects for some individuals. The findings highlight growing concerns about cannabis’s mental health impacts, especially for vulnerable populations.
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