Expert: Jacqui - 8/15/2008

Question
Hi Jacqui , I have smoked weed about 4 or five times with friends , im 18 now and decided i want to stop doing it so i can get a good job , and about 2 months ago was the last time that i smoked weed , and from that last time i feel like i am still high. It sounds strange i know , but it just wont go away , I feel as if i am in another dimenson all the time , its like my mind is working slower than my body and its horrible and it will not go away. Like if i were to have a conversation with someone i would be looking into thier eyes and feel as if i am comprehending what he/she says and i really dont , same as if i were to stare at an object for a while. PLEASE tell me that you can help me.<Thank You>

Answer
Hi Derrac,

Firstly I must apologise for not responding more promptly, I was interstate and forgot to switch my expert site to "vacation".

I am very concerned that you may be showing signs of mental illness.  It is absolutely imperative that you get some professional support as soon as possible.   I can't help you any more than tell you to do that.  

I am loath to provide any more information because I am worried that if I do, you may not seek out professional help.   Do you have a medical practitioner who you trust and you can speak to for support?  

Mental illness is something that a lot of people experience.  Also, a lot of people smoke marijuana and they don't end up with mental health issues.  It is a complex area, and some people believe that marijuana can cause problems, while others believe that people who have problems are more likely to smoke ... a bit like which came first, the chicken or the egg?  

If you don't have someone you can speak to, please let me know where you are (state, city, country) and I can do some investigating.  However, it is important that you have a proper assessment by a mental health practitioner (clinical psychologist, psychiatrist) as it is not possible to provide the kind of assistance you need via the internet.  It may be that there is nothing wrong, but the consequences of not finding out are huge.

Please take care Derrac, and let me know how you go or or if you need more info or a referral.

Take care, and whatever you do, do it safely,

Jacqui