They don’t call it a high for nothing! Many longtime consumers will tell you that cannabis – a classification of plant that includes both hemp and “marijuana” — helps them regulate their mood, relieve stress, and allow them to see things in a more positive light.   

Yet THC is technically classified as a “depressant” – and is also often used to help with sleep and relaxation. So what gives? Does THC make you happy or sad? Energetic or lethargic? What about cannabis-induced anxiety? 

Don’t worry (be happy). We’ve got the scoop on how to fully unlock hemp-derived THC’s mood-boosting benefits. 

Does THC make you happy? 

Hang On… Isn’t THC a Depressant?

“But wait,” we hear you cry! “THC, like alcohol, is classified as a depressant. How can it be mood-lifting if DEPRESS is literally in the name??” 

Because “depressant,” as it’s used scientifically, doesn’t refer to something that literally makes you depressed. It simply means that the substance slows down – rather than stimulates – signaling within your central nervous system. THC does just that, which is one reason it can be helpful for sleep and relaxation. (It’s also a good reason not to drive or operate heavy machinery under the influence.) 

In other words, despite the misleading classifier, THC is not an inherently “depressing” substance. BUT that doesn’t mean that a whopping dose of it guarantees good vibes every time. Too much of this potent little molecule can cause intense drowsiness, anxiety, and even feelings of paranoia.  

So how does one ensure they are having the GOOD kind of THC experience, instead of the stressful kind? We’re so glad you asked… 

Avoiding THC-Induced Anxiety 

Whether you have a positive experience with THC depends on a few variables, some of which we don’t have much control over. Everyone’s body is different, and how you react to the plant depends, to some extent, on everything from your own unique biology to the environment in which you’re consuming. 

The good news is, you can set yourself up for success in two simple ways: 

1. Avoiding Overconsumption. 

2. Pairing THC with other mood-lifting plant compounds. 

Let’s break it down. 

Start Low and Go Slow 

More Mood-Lifting Hemp Compounds 

There is SO much more to cannabis than THC! We’ve written previously about terpenes, the chemical compounds that give all plants their unique taste, smell, and effects. Some edibles companies, like Wana, actually enhance their products with reintroduced terps that have been selected for their uniquely mood-lifting effects.  

Other hemp-derived cannabinoids can also help you modulate your THC high.  Non-intoxicating CBD, in particular, has been observed to relieve stress – and many people find that a dose of it can help reduce the potential for THC-related anxiety. If you’re worried about THC’s potential negative side effects, an edible with an equal (or higher) ratio of CBD to THC might be a good place to start.  

And then there are the RCs – the rare cannabinoids. These are molecules which occur less commonly in the plant than THC or CBD, but which can interact with your endocannabinoid system in beneficial ways.  

For mood-lifting effects, we’re partial to two particular hemp compounds: 

1. CBG. Like CBD, this friendly little cannabinoid can offset THC-related anxiety. It’s been observed to elevate levels of GABA, a stress-relieving neurotransmitter that occurs naturally in your body. Fans of Wana’s Quick and Classic hemp Gummies – all of which contain 1:1:1 CBG/CBD/THC – often tell us that CBG brings added ease and enjoyment to social events and creative activities. 

2. THCV. Sounds like THC, but isn’t! In fact, THCV affects the same receptors that THC does, but in opposite ways. For example, THC can make you sleepy, while THCV often makes people feel more alert. Similarly, THC can reduce reaction times and information processing, while non-intoxicating THCV can actually help sharpen focus. 

Choosing an appropriately dosed edible (or drink) that’s high in either of these compounds – or both of them together, ideally – is a good practice if you’re looking for a high that leans in a cheery, up-and-at-’em direction.  Wana Optimals Quick Lift, anyone? 

Long-Term Hemp Happiness: Important Tips for Safe Consumption 

Is hemp the secret to happiness? 

Uh, no. Here again, it’s important to distinguish between a temporary mood and a long-term state of being. THC and other hemp compounds are not a substitute for mental health counseling or psychiatric care. And although it’s not possible to overdose on THC, overreliance on hemp as a mood-booster can start to produce diminishing returns. 

As we mentioned earlier, THC has been shown to temporarily elevate dopamine, leading to heightened feelings of pleasure. But it’s crucial to note that long-term, daily or near daily use of this compound may ultimately begin to blunt the dopamine reward system in your brain, meaning that you require more and more stimulus to produce the same mood-lifting effects.   

The good news is, a “tolerance break” – or a period of 30 days without consumption – can usually reset this dopamine reward system. If you start to notice that your favorite drink or edible isn’t giving you the same lift it used to, it might be time to press pause and let your body recalibrate. 

It’s also worth noting that the information we’ve laid out here applies for most people. But, there’s still a lot we don’t know about how cannabis affects the brain. If you’ve followed our suggestions and STILL struggle with the negative side effects of THC… maybe it’s just not for you, and that’s ok. Listen to your body before you listen to our blog post. 

If, however, you’ve found these tips helpful in optimizing your hemp experience, that’s the best mood-booster we could ask for. Here’s to a lifetime of happy highs!