With the growing legalization and normalization of cannabis, more people are using marijuana to unwind or fall asleep. However, many wonder what happens when you sleep high. While some users say it helps them fall asleep faster, research suggests that cannabis can alter sleep stages, reduce REM sleep, and contribute to sleep problems over time.
Understanding the affects of sleeping high is especially important for individuals who use substances to cope with stress, trauma, or mental health conditions. If you or a loved one depends on cannabis or edibles for sleep, it might indicate a deeper issue like substance use disorder. Thankfully, treatment is available, and Rock View Recovery, a leading addiction recovery center in Arizona, offers dual-diagnosis care that addresses both sleep issues and substance dependence.
The science of sleeping high
When someone consumes cannabis—whether smoking, vaping, or edibles—it affects the brain when you sleep by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood, memory, and sleep. THC, the compound responsible for making you feel sleepy, can shorten the time it takes to fall asleep, making it seem helpful at first.
However, studies show that sleeping high can disrupt deep sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) cycles. These stages are crucial for emotional regulation, memory processing, and mental clarity. When cannabis reduces REM sleep, users may miss out on the restorative benefits of natural sleep.
Short-term vs. long-term effects
In the short term, cannabis may help individuals fall asleep faster and experience fewer awakenings. But over time, the long term effects of sleeping high can include poor sleep, vivid dreams during withdrawal, and increased dependence on substances for rest.
Some common long-term symptoms include:
- Persistent sleep disorders
- Difficulty entering deep sleep
- Tolerance buildup leading to higher doses
- Dry mouth and grogginess upon waking
- Difficulty achieving restful sleep without cannabis
What may start as a simple way to improve sleep can gradually become a pattern of dependence that negatively affects health and functioning.
Why people use cannabis for sleep
Many people use cannabis for sleep because it initially helps with trouble sleeping, especially for those suffering from stress or post-traumatic stress disorder. Certain indica strains are known for their calming, sedative properties, which can make it easier to drift off at night.
However, this can create a false sense of security. Over time, the body may rely on cannabis to initiate sleep, reducing its ability to do so naturally. This becomes problematic when users try to quit and experience rebound insomnia, vivid dreams, and wake up feeling unrested.
Mental health and sleep dependency
People who turn to marijuana for sleep often have underlying mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or trauma. Cannabis may mask these issues temporarily, but it rarely resolves them. In fact, it may worsen symptoms as sleep disorders and emotional imbalances intensify.
This is particularly concerning for individuals who struggle with both substance abuse and mental illness. If the need to get high in order to sleep becomes habitual, it’s important to look deeper and consider whether professional help is needed.
Signs that sleep habits may be a warning sign
While occasional use of cannabis may not seem concerning, relying on it every night can be a red flag. If you or a loved one experience:
- An inability to sleep without cannabis
- Increased anxiety, fatigue, or irritability
- Poor sleep despite using marijuana
- Withdrawal symptoms after stopping use
- Persistent sleep issues and dependence
It may be time to talk to a professional. These signs may indicate more than just sleep problems—they could signal a developing addiction or untreated psychological condition.
Why Rock View Recovery is different
At Rock View Recovery, individuals receive holistic, customized care that addresses both substance dependence and mental health conditions. Located in Arizona, this dual-diagnosis facility is designed to help men and women heal from drug and alcohol addiction with a focus on personalized treatment, supportive therapy, and lasting recovery.
The clinical team at Rock View Recovery works with each client to uncover the root causes of their substance use and develop healthier coping strategies—especially around sleep and stress. Whether someone is using marijuana to manage anxiety, trauma, or insomnia, Rock View helps them regain control in a safe, structured environment.
Treating the root of sleep problems
Treatment at Rock View Recovery includes:
- Medical detox (if needed)
- Trauma-focused and cognitive behavioral therapy
- Sleep hygiene and relaxation training
- Dual-diagnosis mental health care
- Aftercare support and relapse prevention planning
By understanding how cannabis affects sleep stages and REM sleep, clients can re-learn how to rest naturally without relying on substances. This leads to real progress—not just symptom suppression.
You deserve better sleep—and a better life
If you’re wondering what happens when you sleep high and feel stuck in a cycle of nightly cannabis use, it might be time to seek support. While cannabis may offer short-term relief, its impact on deep sleep, mental clarity, and emotional stability can be harmful over time.
At Rock View Recovery, clients receive expert care in a compassionate, private setting. With a team trained in both addiction and mental health, this Arizona-based facility provides everything needed to break free from dependence and rediscover healthy, fulfilling rest.
Visit Rock View Recovery to learn more about how the right treatment can help you reclaim your sleep—and your life.
