How cannabis can lead to psychosis, violence and death: A personal story from dr. Bryn Spejcher and pharmacology expert analysis from dr. Dan Buffington

The potency and biochemical complexity of modern cannabis formulations have far exceeded those of past decades, contributing to an alarming rise in cannabis-induced psychosis (CIP). Despite this trend, clinical understanding and public awareness of CIP’s mechanisms and consequences remain limited. This joint presentation offers an interdisciplinary perspective combining clinical pharmacology and lived experience to deepen understanding of how cannabis can trigger acute psychosis and long-term neuropsychiatric sequelae.

Dr. Daniel Buffington, a clinical pharmacologist who has investigated cannabinoid pharmacodynamics and toxicology, will outline how delta-9-THC and other cannabinoids interact with the central nervous system to disrupt perception, cognition, and emotional regulation. He will discuss pharmacologic risk factors, such as dose concentration, product variability, and user susceptibility, that can precipitate psychosis even in previously healthy individuals.

Bryn Spejcher, an audiologist and advocate, will provide a clinically documented case of a sudden and profound cannabis-induced psychosis episode that resulted in severe behavioural disorganization, legal ramifications, and a multiyear recovery process. Through this case, she will illustrate the psychosocial, legal, and professional challenges faced during rehabilitation and reintegration into healthcare practice.

Attendees will gain insight into:

1. The pharmacological underpinnings and clinical presentation of cannabis-induced psychosis.
2. Risk factors and early-warning signs clinicians can recognize to prevent escalation.
3. Post-episode recovery, trauma-informed treatment, and reintegration pathways.
4. Evidence-based strategies to enhance prevention, patient education and compassionate care.

By merging empirical data with human experience, this session bridges addiction medicine, psychiatry and behavioural health, calling for a unified, science-driven, and stigma-free approach to addressing cannabis-related psychiatric emergencies.

Bryn Spejcher, Au.D. (Candidate), is an audiologist and public health advocate dedicated to advancing education on cannabis-induced psychosis through lived-experience outreach and clinical collaboration. After experiencing an acute psychotic reaction to cannabis and going through a criminal trial, she transformed her recovery into advocacy by partnering with Every Brain Matters and experts such as Dr. Daniel Buffington to inform clinicians, students, and policymakers about prevention, early intervention, and trauma-informed recovery.