Can You Get Contact High? Separating Fact from Fiction
As the use of marijuana becomes more accepted and prevalent, people are becoming increasingly concerned about the potential for secondhand exposure. Specifically, can you get “contact high” from being around others who are smoking marijuana? In this article, we will examine the scientific evidence to separate fact from fiction and provide practical tips for avoiding secondhand exposure.
Separating Fact from Fiction: Can You Really Get Contact High?
There are a lot of misconceptions out there about secondhand marijuana smoke and its effects. Some people argue that even walking through a cloud of smoke can get you high, while others believe that you can only get high if you inhale the smoke directly. So, what’s the truth?
According to scientific studies, it is possible to get a measurable amount of THC in your system from secondhand marijuana smoke, but the levels are very low. To put it into perspective, you would need to be in an extremely poorly ventilated room with multiple people smoking for an extended period of time to even come close to the effects of direct ingestion. In most real-world settings, the levels of THC in the air are not high enough to cause a contact high.
Furthermore, experts argue that the idea of a contact high is largely a myth perpetuated by pop culture and urban legends. While it’s possible to feel a minor buzz or a change in mood from being around people who are smoking, it’s unlikely that you would experience the same effects as the person doing the smoking.
So, the bottom line is that while it is technically possible to get a contact high, the chances of it happening in most real-world settings are very low.
The Risks and Realities of Secondhand Smoke
While the potential for a contact high may be limited, there are still health risks associated with exposure to secondhand smoke. The American Lung Association has stated that “there is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke,” whether it comes from cigarettes or marijuana.
Some of the potential health risks associated with exposure to marijuana smoke include:
- Respiratory problems, including chronic bronchitis and asthma
- Increased risk of lung cancer
- Cardiovascular problems, such as heart disease
- Impaired memory and learning
- Mental health issues, including anxiety and depression
To reduce your risk of exposure, it’s important to avoid being in enclosed spaces with people who are smoking and to speak up if you feel uncomfortable.
It’s also worth noting that different settings may pose different risks. For example, being in a car with someone who is smoking may expose you to higher levels of secondhand smoke than being in an open outdoor area.
Understanding the Impact of Marijuana Legalization on Public Health
As more states legalize marijuana for both medical and recreational use, the potential for secondhand exposure increases. This has led to concerns about the impact of marijuana legalization on public health and safety.
While the legalization of marijuana has many potential benefits, including increased tax revenue and reduced incarceration rates, it also poses some challenges. One of these challenges is the need to educate the public about the risks associated with secondhand exposure.
Policymakers can take steps to promote public health and safety, including:
- Regulating where people can smoke
- Educating the public about the risks of exposure
- Supporting research into the potential health impacts of marijuana
By taking action to address the potential risks of marijuana use, policymakers can help ensure that legalization benefits the public as a whole.
Contact High Symptoms: What to Watch Out For
While the chances of getting a contact high are relatively low, there are still some symptoms to watch out for if you are exposed to secondhand smoke.
Common symptoms of contact high include:
- Dry mouth
- Red or bloodshot eyes
- Increased appetite
- Drowsiness
- Euphoria
While these symptoms are generally harmless, exposure to secondhand smoke can also have more serious side effects. For example, individuals with respiratory problems may experience worsened symptoms, and heavy or chronic exposure can lead to long-term health problems.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that exposure to secondhand smoke can have mental health effects, particularly in individuals who are already prone to anxiety or depression.
How to Be a Good Neighbor: Tips for Avoiding Contact High
Whether you’re a non-smoker who wants to avoid exposure to secondhand smoke or a smoker who wants to be considerate of those around you, there are steps you can take to minimize the effects of secondhand smoke.
Some tips for avoiding contact high include:
- Avoiding enclosed spaces with smokers
- Encouraging smokers to use outdoor areas when possible
- Using air purifiers to reduce the amount of smoke in the air
- Speaking up if you feel uncomfortable
- Having an honest conversation with smokers in your life about your concerns and preferences
By taking these steps, you can minimize your exposure to secondhand smoke and be a good neighbor to those around you.
Conclusion
While the risk of getting a contact high from secondhand smoke is relatively low, exposure to secondhand marijuana smoke can still have health consequences. It’s important for individuals and policymakers to take steps to minimize the risks associated with secondhand exposure, particularly as the use of marijuana becomes more accepted and prevalent. By working together to promote public health and safety, we can ensure that everyone is able to enjoy the benefits of legalization without putting their health at risk.
