N.S. seeing an increase in teens with long-lasting psychosis due to high-potency cannabis – CBC
THC levels triggering severe, persistent mental health crises in youth, psychiatrists say
May 31, 2026
Clinicians at Halifax’s IWK Health Centre say more young patients are arriving with severe symptoms tied to high-potency cannabis — and their symptoms are taking much longer to clear, even after they stop using the drug.
Dr. Kyle Godden, an inpatient psychiatrist at the IWK, said youth using high-potency products experience more severe episodes and require longer hospital care.
Godden recalled a young male patient who came into the hospital with severe paranoia, agitation and hallucinations.
“It was very evident, based on his story, that it was his use of these high-potency products that provoked and caused these symptoms,” said Godden.
