Could My Experiences Be Related to Mental Health or Metabolism?
As a 17-year-old female, I recently encountered a puzzling situation. Approximately three weeks ago, I experimented with marijuana for the first time, consuming a modest amount of 0.5 grams while under the influence of alcohol. This experience left me quite unsettled. Although the high only lasted about two and a half days—likely due to my sluggish metabolism—I felt an unusual sensation for nearly a week. It was as though I was observing myself from a distance, resulting in a peculiar delay in my coordination when I moved, which was disconcerting yet not alarming. Since that episode, I’ve returned to normalcy. However, for the past three weeks, I had been supplementing with 0.5 mg of Potassium Iodine to help manage my slow metabolism—even though it wasn't prescribed. A week prior, I ceased taking these supplements, but just three days ago, following an intense workout at the gym, I began to experience that strange detached feeling once more. While this sensation is diminishing, I am baffled as to why it resurfaced despite my avoidance of marijuana since that first incident. I suspect that it might be a form of dissociation, possibly triggered by both the intense anxiety from the initial experience with marijuana and the physical exhaustion after exercising, though I cannot say for certain. (As an additional note for perspective, I weigh around 12 stones and stand 5 feet 2 inches tall, should this be relevant.)
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 11:00:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel confused and concerned about your recent experiences, especially when they involve unusual sensations and physical feelings post-exercise. Your symptoms, particularly the detached feeling and possible dissociation, may be linked to both mental health factors (like anxiety) and your body's response to various substances and stressors.
Explanation:
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Dissociation: This is when you feel disconnected from your thoughts, feelings, or sense of identity. It can stem from anxiety and stress, especially after a disconcerting experience like using marijuana for the first time.
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Substance Influence: The combination of alcohol and marijuana could have impacted your mental state and coordination, which might explain the prolonged sensation you experienced. Such feelings can sometimes occur during or after high-stress situations or physical exertion, particularly if you're feeling anxious.
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Slow Metabolism & Supplements: Potassium iodide is often used for thyroid support but should be taken with caution, especially if not prescribed. Abruptly stopping supplements can affect how your body feels, and intense workouts can further contribute to feelings of exhaustion or detachment.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Feelings: Keep track of any occurrences of that detached sensation or other unusual feelings, noting their triggers. This can help you identify patterns over time.
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Prioritize Self-Care: Focus on getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and maintaining balanced nutrition, particularly after intense workouts. Gentle activities like yoga or mindfulness practices may help you manage anxiety.
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Consider Relaxation Techniques: Engage in relaxation exercises or mindfulness practices to help cope with stress and anxiety. These tools may enhance your awareness and grounding in the present moment.
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Avoid Substances: Since marijuana and alcohol have both contributed to your experiences, it may be wise to avoid them while figuring out your feelings. This gives your body time to adjust and recover.
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Reflect on Anxiety Triggers: Think about any lingering anxieties related to the initial experience with marijuana or other stressors in your life. Journaling may be a helpful outlet.
If the detached feelings continue or your anxiety intensifies, it might benefit you to consider speaking with a trusted adult or a mental health professional, as they can provide personalized support based on your experiences. Remember, it's important to take care of your mental health, just as you would your physical health. You're not alone in this—seek support when you need it.
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