Stopping Cannabis Use Leads to Intense Dreams and Sleep Disturbances

When regular cannabis users decide to quit, they may experience significant changes in their sleep patterns, including more intense dreams and potential nightmares. According to biologist Diego Golombek, cannabis use can alter the REM phase of sleep, which is crucial for vivid dreaming. This alteration may lead to fewer dreams while using cannabis, but once usage stops, the dreams can return with heightened intensity

The scientific community is still exploring the effects of cannabis on sleep, with current research indicating that while cannabis can improve sleep for some, it may also degrade sleep quality over time. Golombek explains that any pharmacologically induced sleep, including that influenced by cannabis, can disrupt sleep architecture, leading to frequent awakenings and altered sleep phases

Cannabis has been shown to promote sleep by increasing the activity of sleep-promoting neurotransmitters such as adenosine. However, long-term use can lead to tolerance, meaning the body becomes accustomed to the substance and craves it when it is no longer available. This can result in a resurgence of symptoms, including more vivid dreams, once cannabis use is discontinued

Despite the anecdotal evidence and ongoing research, there is still much to learn about how cannabis affects sleep. High Times conducted a poll where 76% of respondents reported experiencing more vivid dreams during a cannabis detox. Golombek advises those quitting cannabis to follow common sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule and reducing stress, to mitigate these effects