Marijuana and Mental Health: What Long Island Families Need to Know

In 2021, New York State became the 15th state to legalize marijuana for recreational use. Since then, there have been many questions and concerns raised from mental health and drug addiction counselors, and rightfully so. According to Stony Brook University,  there has been an increase in emergency room visits here on Long Island related to THC use. While marijuana may be safe for some to use recreationally, many people that are prone to obsessive behaviors (or other mental health disorders) could be at a greater risk of addiction. At Gooding Wellness, we’re seeing more and more young people using marijuana to “manage anxiety” across Long Island, but the truth is, THC-heavy marijuana may actually be making anxiety worse.

Marijuana As A Treatment For Anxiety

While marijuana may provide temporary relief from anxious feelings, studies show that chronic or high-potency THC use can increase anxiety symptoms over time. The short-term effects of relaxation and euphoria are often countered by feelings of anxiety, irritability, and emotional dysregulation once the drug wears off. 

In fact, research suggests a strong link between frequent marijuana use and increased anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, adolescents and young adults who use cannabis are significantly more likely to develop anxiety disorders. One study even found that daily use of high-potency cannabis increases the risk of developing psychotic disorders by nearly fivefold compared to non-users.¹ We are seeing these same results across Long Island.

Avoiding Anxiety Doesn’t Build Resilience

Using marijuana to manage anxiety is like skipping leg day at the gym—you may avoid discomfort for now, but you’re not building the strength needed to face life’s challenges. Emotional resilience is a muscle. To grow it, we have to put ourselves through a bit of discomfort, such as facing hard truths, tolerating anxious thoughts, and learning how to self-regulate.

When young people reach for THC to avoid those uncomfortable emotions, they miss opportunities to practice key coping skills. The anxiety doesn’t go away—it’s just numbed. And like any skill left unused, emotional resilience will weaken over time.

Mental Health Consequences of Regular THC Use

Many teens and young adults assume marijuana is harmless, especially when it’s labeled “natural” or sold legally. But long-term or heavy use can have serious consequences including:

• Worsening anxiety and mood disorders

• Increased risk of psychosis

• Memory and concentration issues

• Poor emotion regulation

• Disrupted sleep patterns

• Higher rates of depression and suicidal thoughts

  
  

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also notes that marijuana use is linked to a higher likelihood of social anxiety and suicidal behavior—particularly in adolescents and young adults.²

Dependency and Teen Use

Many still believe the myth that marijuana is non-addictive. We hear this often at our practice here in Cold Spring Harbor. But studies show that nearly 1 in 6 teens who use marijuana will develop a cannabis use disorder.³ The adolescent brain is still developing, especially in areas related to memory, decision-making, and emotional regulation, making it more vulnerable to the long-term effects of THC.

Here are a few signs and symptoms of a use disorder that families need to look out for:

• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns

• Increased secrecy or dishonesty

• Neglecting responsibilities or hobbies

• Declining performance in school or work

• Sudden mood swings, irritability, or aggression

• Paranoia or anxiety

• Red eyes, dry mouth, or increased heart rate

• Memory problems or difficulty concentrating

• Withdrawal from family and friends

• Strong cravings for marijuana

• Continuing use despite negative consequences

• Developing tolerance, needing more to achieve the same effect

If you notice you or a loved one experiencing these symptoms related to marijuana use, it might be time to consider reaching out for help.

Debunking Common Misconceptions about Marijuana 

MYTH #1: “If it’s legal, it’s safe.”

While legalization reduces criminal penalties, it does not mean marijuana is harmless—especially for teens. Alcohol and tobacco are legal too, yet both are associated with long-term health risks and early mortality. Legal doesn’t always mean safe.

MYTH #2: “Marijuana is a healthier alternative to alcohol.”

While both substances come with risks, high-THC marijuana use is now associated with more ER visits related to anxiety and psychosis than alcohol among young adults.⁴ THC is also more likely to be used during the day and combined with other substances like nicotine.

MYTH #3: “Marijuana helps with anxiety.”

As we have already mentioned, THC can temporarily numb anxious feelings, but it often makes anxiety worse in the long run, particularly in high doses. Studies show chronic use of marijuana is associated with increased risk of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.⁵ True anxiety relief requires skill-building and emotional processing, not just symptom avoidance.

MYTH #4: “It’s the same weed people used in the 80s and 90s.”

Not even close. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, THC concentrations in marijuana products have more than tripled in the past 25 years.⁶ Today’s cannabis products—especially edibles, vapes, dabs, and waxes—can contain 60–90% THC. That potency increases both the likelihood of addiction and negative mental health effects.

The Bottom Line

At Gooding Wellness, we want young people to feel empowered, not dependent. Coping with anxiety isn’t about avoiding discomfort. It’s about showing up, even when it’s hard. Therapy and coping skills are not much different from going to the gym: the more consistently you practice, the stronger and more resilient you become. It’s important to take care of your mental health just like you take care of your physical health. Skipping the work won’t help you when life gets heavy.

We’re here to support teens, young adults, and families with expert care rooted in evidence-based strategies. If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety or marijuana use, you’re not alone — help is available. If you’re interested in clinical treatment, please reach out to us here at Gooding Wellness and we will pair you with the right clinician and treatment plan for you, either within or beyond our practice.

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Submitted by Gordon Gooding, LCSW, Founder and Director of the Gooding Wellness Group

Sources:

1. Di Forti, M. et al. (2019). The contribution of cannabis use to variation in the incidence of psychotic disorder across Europe (EU-GEI study). The Lancet Psychiatry.

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). Marijuana and Public Health.

3. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (2020). Is marijuana addictive?

4. Hines, L. A., Freeman, T. P., et al. (2020). Association of High-Potency Cannabis Use With Mental Health and Substance Use in Adolescents. JAMA Psychiatry.

5. Crippa, J.A.S. et al. (2009). Cannabis and Anxiety: A Critical Review of the Evidence. Human Psychopharmacology.

6. ElSohly, M.A. et al. (2016). Changes in Cannabis Potency Over the Last Two Decades (1995–2014). Biological Psychiatry.