If you think it might be a good time to detox from weed, read this
First, congratulations for even considering taking a detox from weed. Weed can be more insidious than people think, which makes it tricky to deal with. But, this is a great place to be in and we can help. There is a formula for everything. For detoxing off drugs, there are many things you can do to help yourself succeed.
This is your how-to on how to detox from weed
I didn’t think detox from weed was a thing … until I went through it. Back before I got into opiates, I was a major pothead. After my first arrest, I needed to stop smoking marijuana cold turkey. In hindsight as a recovering heroin addict, I have a lot of respect for those sleepless nights and racing thoughts — it is not pleasant. Let’s break it down to the facts for a better understanding of what detoxing from marijuana entails.
Can people become addicted to marijuana? This is a hot topic that there are many misconceptions about. The truth is, whether cannabis is used for recreational or medicinal purposes, a person can develop withdrawal symptoms when they stop using it. It is possible to become dependent on and even addicted to marijuana with regular use. According to Medical News Today, “Over 300,000 people begin treatment for marijuana use disorders in the U.S. each year.” Surprising, isn’t it? People commonly don’t think of drug and alcohol treatment as being rehabilitation for cannabis dependency.
Many people can use weed without experiencing withdrawal effects; however, regular marijuana use can develop into marijuana use disorder. Addiction pertaining to marijuana can be defined as continued use despite negative consequences in a person’s life (e.g., issues involving relationships, job, family, etc.).
For someone abruptly stopping regular marijuana use, withdrawal symptoms peak within the first week and can last up to 2 weeks.
Symptoms of detox from weed or withdrawal from weed can include:
- Irritability.
- Troubles sleeping, possible insomnia.
- Loss of appetite.
- Restlessness.
- Cravings for marijuana.
- Upset stomach.
- Abdominal pain.
- Racing thoughts.
- Headaches.
- Mood changes.
- Possible night and cold sweats.
- Increased depression.
Healthline.com reports: “Marijuana withdrawal symptoms may not be as severe as withdrawal symptoms from other substances. Opioids, alcohol, cocaine, and heroin can produce severe, even dangerous, withdrawal issues. Still, many people who stop using marijuana do experience physical and psychological symptoms. This happens because your body has to adjust to not having a regular supply of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).”
THC is the main psychoactive component in marijuana. Your brain develops a tolerance for it, when weed is consistently smoked — just like any other substance, you build a tolerance. Then, when you stop, your brain has to balance out again by adjusting to not having the THC. As your body settles into functioning at its normal again, you’ll experience the above unpleasant symptoms.
The beauty of marijuana detox is that it’s relatively quick and there are ways to help ease the process. Consulting a professional is a great way to gain inspiration and accountability to stop using. Tapering off slowly by easing your way out of marijuana use will make for a more seamless transition to a weed-free lifestyle. Also, if you’re an occasional user, you probably won’t witness any withdrawal effects.
Here are some tips to detox from weed with less stress
- Find support. Accountably is super important and so is a support system. Surrounding yourself with loved ones, recovering addicts, and even professionals will help comfort you during this time.
- Eat healthy and stay hydrated. Avoid caffeinated beverages to evade extra anxiety. Clean eating and drinking water will flush your body and provide it with the nutrients it needs. Your appetite will most likely be decreased, but getting something in your stomach is super important. Note that junk foods can make you lazy and irritable.
- Try to exercise daily. This will give you a natural mood boost and help sweat out any toxins you are carrying.
- Keep busy. Find hobbies and activities to keep yourself entertained. This will prevent the mind from wandering and pass time. That being said, relaxing and mediation is important for healing as well. Find a balance to help you get through this time.
The main takeaway is that marijuana detox is real. It may not be as severe as other substance withdrawals but it is a difficult obstacle regular cannabis users face. People who use marijuana can become dependent. When stopping marijuana use, remember it is temporary and you are not alone! Utilize resources, get sober inspiration, and take care of yourself — you got this.
