What Happens To Your Brain When You Sleep High?

Cannabis has long been used as a remedy for sleep issues, with many users reporting improved sleep quality, especially for people in the United States. However, the relationship between cannabis and sleep is complex, influenced by factors like dosage, frequency of use, and individual physiology. 

Whether for insomnia symptoms, stress, or chronic pain, many believe that marijuana and sleep go hand in hand. But what happens to your brain when you sleep high? 

This article explores the cannabis effects on sleep, including the potential benefits and the risks. We'll also look at what science says about cannabis and sleep so you can make informed decisions. 

At Soberman’s Estate we do not recommend marijuana for sleep and in fact we have developed our own sleep program for men in recovery.  

Questions Answered: 

• How Does Marijuana Affect Sleep? 

• What Happens to Your Brain When You Sleep High? 

• Who Should Avoid Using Cannabis for Sleep? 

How Does Marijuana Affect Sleep? 

Marijuana interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating sleep, mood, appetite, and memory. The active compounds of marijuana play distinct roles: 

• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): A psychoactive compound known for its sedative effects at lower doses. THC can help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. However, higher doses may disrupt sleep by increasing wakefulness or anxiety. 

• CBD (Cannabidiol): At lower doses, CBD may promote alertness, while higher doses have sedative effects that improve total sleep time and reduce nighttime awakenings. 

When you consume marijuana, especially strains high in THC, you may fall asleep faster. This is due to the sedative effects THC has on the brain. It influences brain chemicals like dopamine and GABA, which are linked to relaxation and sleep. 

However, cannabis also disrupts normal sleep architecture. Research shows that it can reduce REM sleep, the stage where dreaming and memory consolidation happen. This can have long-term effects on brain function. 

What Happens to Your Brain When You Sleep High? 

When you go to sleep high, your brain doesn't follow the same sleep pattern as it does naturally. Here’s what happens: 

Changes in Sleep Architecture 

REM sleep is essential for dreaming and emotional health. THC significantly reduces this stage, which can have downstream effects on memory and learning. 

Cannabis also boosts deep sleep (slow wave sleep) levels. This may sound good, but deep sleep without enough REM can throw off your cognitive balance. Deep sleep is crucial for physical restoration and memory processing. 

Additionally, marijuana alters the flow of normal sleep cycles. Instead of a healthy progression through light, deep, and REM sleep, users may stay too long in some stages while skipping others. 

Brain Fog and Cognitive Effects 

Sleep is essential for memory consolidation and clearing toxins from the brain. Disruptions caused by marijuana may impair these processes, potentially affecting learning and cognitive performance. 

The morning after smoking cannabis, many people feel sluggish or mentally foggy. This may be linked to reduced REM and changes in brain chemistry. 

Reduced Dreaming 

Because cannabis reduces REM, you dream less or may not remember any dreams at all. Some users find this helpful, but others may miss the mental clarity and creativity that dreaming can bring. 

Neurochemical Changes 

Cannabis interacts with the brain's endocannabinoid system, influencing neurotransmitters like dopamine and GABA. The interaction between marijuana and dopamine may contribute to feelings of relaxation. Meanwhile, cannabis enhances GABA activity, which may facilitate falling asleep. 

The Benefits of Using Cannabis for Sleep 

Despite the risks, many cannabis users report potential benefits when using marijuana for sleep. Cannabis offers several potential benefits for individuals struggling with insomnia symptoms or other medical conditions: 

• Faster Sleep Onset: Studies suggest that low doses of THC can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. 

• Improved Sleep Quality: Marijuana may increase deep sleep duration, helping users feel more rested. 

• Relief from Chronic Conditions: Cannabis has shown promise in alleviating insomnia symptoms related to chronic pain, PTSD, restless legs syndrome (RLS), and multiple sclerosis. 

• Nightmare Reduction: By suppressing REM sleep, cannabis can help individuals with PTSD avoid distressing dreams. 

• Alternative to Prescription Medications: Many cannabis users report reduced reliance on traditional sleep aids. 

These potential benefits make cannabis an attractive option for those seeking natural remedies to improve sleep. 

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The Dangers of Using Marijuana for Sleep 

While the effectiveness of cannabis for sleep shows promise, it also comes with risks. The body can quickly build a tolerance to THC, making it harder to sleep without cannabis over time. Here's what you should watch out for: 

• Sleep Quality Issues: Long-term use or high doses can lead to fragmented sleep patterns. Research shows that frequent cannabis users often experience increased wakefulness after falling asleep and reduced overall sleep efficiency. 

• REM Sleep Suppression: Prolonged suppression of REM sleep may impair emotional regulation and memory consolidation. 

• Dependency and Withdrawal Symptoms: Chronic use can lead to tolerance and dependency. Withdrawal symptoms include difficulty falling asleep and vivid dreams due to rebound REM activity. 

• Cognitive Impairments: Heavy use over time may result in structural changes in brain regions associated with memory and emotion processing. 

• Mental Health Issues: For some, it may actually increase anxiety or cause mood swings, particularly with strains high in THC. This can create a cycle where the underlying issues contributing to poor sleep are not addressed. 

• Respiratory Issues: Smoking marijuana, as opposed to other consumption methods, can irritate the respiratory system and lead to issues similar to those seen with smoking tobacco. 

• Interaction with other Medications: Marijuana can interact with various medications. If you’re using other drugs for sleep or any other condition, these interactions could pose additional health risks. 

People with existing medical conditions should be especially cautious. The effects on sleep can vary depending on the condition, dosage, and frequency of use. Studies suggest that while occasional use may improve sleep quality temporarily, habitual use often exacerbates existing sleep issues. 

Who Should Avoid Using Cannabis for Sleep? 

Certain groups should approach cannabis use for sleep with caution: 

• Individuals prone to dependency or substance abuse. 

• Adolescents and young adults due to potential long-term cognitive effects. 

• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. 

• People who experience anxiety or paranoia at high THC doses. 

Consulting a healthcare professional is essential before using cannabis as a sleep aid. 

Tips for Safe Use of Cannabis as a Sleep Aid 

If you’re considering using cannabis to improve your sleep, follow these guidelines: 

• Start with Low Doses: Begin with small amounts of THC or CBD to gauge their effects on your body. 

• Choose Balanced Strains: Strains with equal THC-CBD ratios may offer sedative effects without overwhelming psychoactive effects. 

• Avoid Daily Use: To prevent tolerance buildup and dependency, limit usage to occasional nights when needed. 

• Time Your Use Wisely: Smoking cannabis or consuming edibles 2–3 hours before bed ensures its effects align with your natural sleep cycle. 

• Consult Professionals: Speak with a healthcare provider about potential risks and benefits based on your medical history. 

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Alternatives to Marijuana for Better Sleep 

While cannabis can help some people fall asleep, it's not the only option. In fact, there are several evidence-based alternatives that may be more effective and sustainable in the long term. These methods can improve sleep quality without the risks associated with long-term marijuana use. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy 

One of the most effective treatments for chronic insomnia is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). This structured, short-term therapy helps individuals change negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to sleep problems.  

Melatonin 

Melatonin is a natural hormone your body produces to regulate sleep and wake cycles. Taking melatonin supplements in low doses can help reset your internal clock, especially for people dealing with jet lag or shift work. 

Physical Activities 

Exercise also plays a major role in healthy sleep. Regular physical activity helps you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep stages. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week, but try to avoid intense workouts close to bedtime, as they may interfere with falling asleep. 

Relaxation Techniques 

Meditation, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation can calm the mind and body. These practices help lower stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for sleep disturbances. Incorporating just 10 to 15 minutes of mindfulness each evening can lead to noticeable improvements in sleep quality. 

Good Sleep Hygiene 

Creating a sleep-friendly environment by keeping your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet can make a big difference. Limiting screen time before bed, avoiding caffeine late in the day, and sticking to a consistent sleep schedule also help train your body for better rest. 

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Recognizing Marijuana Addiction 

Although marijuana is often perceived as non-addictive, some individuals can develop a dependence. Recognizing the signs of marijuana addiction is important, especially for those who use cannabis regularly to manage sleep issues. 

Common signs of marijuana addiction include: 

• Needing to smoke cannabis daily or several times a day. 

• Feeling anxious or irritable when not using cannabis. 

• Prioritizing marijuana use over social, professional, or personal responsibilities. 

• Being unable to cut down or stop despite wanting to. 

• Continuing use despite negative consequences like poor sleep quality or mood changes. 

Treatment for marijuana addiction is available and effective. The first step is acknowledging the dependence and seeking professional help. Many people benefit from working with addiction specialists who understand both the medical conditions related to cannabis use and the emotional challenges that come with it. 

Recovery from cannabis dependence is possible, and getting help can significantly improve both mental health and sleep quality. 

Soberman’s Estate is a leading men-only treatment center in Arizona, dedicated to guiding adult men through recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. Our expert team offers a safe, supportive space for healing from substance use disorders and co-occurring challenges. 

If you or someone you care about is facing addiction, know that you're not alone—help is within reach. Connect with our Admissions Director for a free, confidential consultation by calling (480) 571-9742 or emailing info@SobermansEstate.com. Your path to recovery starts here. 

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