Weed, also known as marijuana or cannabis, is a drug that’s sometimes used for recreational use. Despite many claims and studies that show that marijuana use can be safe for medicinal purposes, illicit use can cause different long-term health consequences. Let’s cover some ways to stop weed addiction and other factors to expect when quitting the drug.
How to Stop Weed Addiction
It’s never easy to stop an addiction of any kind, and cannabis use disorder is no different. However, with the right tips, it’s possible to stop marijuana use and live a substance-free life.
Set Goals
One of the first things to do when you’ve decided to quit the drug is to set goals. Be intentional with your goals; these will be your “whys” when things get difficult. Your goals could be anywhere from wanting to live a healthier life to improving your relationship with loved ones.
Once you’ve set your goals, it’s easier to identify ways to work towards them. Remember to break down achieving these goals into smaller, more manageable steps. This way, it’s easier to live a sober life eventually.
Know Your Triggers
Learning about what triggers you to use marijuana is also a great way to prepare yourself for situations that might make you crave the drug. Specific people, locations, or emotions can trigger cravings.
A good way to learn about your triggers is to reflect on past experiences. Think back to when you’ve used the drug in the past. If there were times when you didn’t use the drug but felt very tempted to do so, think about what made you want to use it. Being honest with yourself can help you uncover your triggers for proper recovery.
Follow a Daily Schedule
When you’re trying to stop using addictive substances like marijuana, it’s ideal to follow a daily schedule. Your schedule can be a mix of work, responsibilities, and other social activities that don’t involve any substance abuse. Be realistic and sustainable with your schedule as well so that it’s easier to commit to it.
Knowing what to expect throughout your day can make it easier for you to stay busy and not resort to using marijuana. A daily schedule also gives a sense of stability. When you have a structured routine, there will be less time for you to think about using the drug. It helps create a balanced and fulfilling life that doesn’t include cannabis use.
Pick Up Other Healthy Activities
Picking up other healthy activities when stopping an addiction will help you focus on hobbies other than using marijuana. These activities include cooking, journaling, arts and crafts, or working out. There are plenty of options for you to choose from. You may even want to tag a friend whenever you try out these new activities.
When you have other activities to keep you busy, you reduce the idle time that was once spent on substance use. It also helps you find new passions and interests. For example, trying a new recipe can give you a sense of accomplishment. This can turn around feelings of low self-esteem that may contribute to wanting to use marijuana.
Build a Strong Support System
A strong support system is essential when you’re quitting marijuana use. This time can be incredibly emotional and isolating, and without the proper support, it would be very difficult to go through. Lack of proper support may also increase the risk of relapse since there’s nobody to hold you accountable for your actions.
Support systems may consist of close family members and friends that you trust. You can also look for a good support system through support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA). In these meetings, you’ll be able to connect with other people going through the same struggles you are going through. This makes you feel less alone in your recovery journey, and you might even learn new coping mechanisms from others.
Take Time to Take Care of Yourself
Again, this time is very emotionally challenging, especially when you start dealing with the withdrawal symptoms of quitting marijuana. Taking time to take care of yourself will help make the situation less grueling.
One way to take care of yourself during this time is learning how to reduce feelings of stress. Mindfulness and deep breathing techniques can be a good way to focus on the present and prevent worries from the past or future from taking over you. You should also take care of yourself physically. Engaging in light exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting quality rest during this time are all important for your overall well-being.
Seek Professional Help
The best way to stop weed addiction is to seek professional help. Through professional help, you get to discover the underlying cause of your addiction. Professionals can provide therapies that will help you develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage your symptoms.
When you get help for marijuana addiction, you can also get access to proper aftercare and relapse prevention plans. These programs include continued therapy so that you can keep on learning how to cope with triggers when you’re done with treatment.
Is Marijuana Addictive?
While marijuana isn’t as addictive as other harmful substances, there is still a high risk of being dependent on the drug. Marijuana has a psychoactive compound called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). When you use the drug, this compound stimulates the release of dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.
The release of dopamine can make you feel happy and euphoric. It’s an addictive feeling that can lead you to use the drug again and again. However, repeated use can eventually make you dependent on the drug, and it might even be difficult to function daily without marijuana.
Weed addiction is a serious problem, as it has long-term health consequences. It will also be more difficult to stop using marijuana once you’re stuck in the cycle of using the drug to escape negative feelings and emotions.
Can I Quit Smoking Weed Cold Turkey?
Yes, it’s possible to quit smoking weed cold turkey, but it will be very difficult to do so without the proper help. While many people do it successfully, it’s a situation that can lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as:
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Mood swings
- Reduced appetite
- Fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
- Night sweats
- Shaking and tremors
- Intense cravings for the drug
You should never attempt to quit cold turkey without professional consultation. Having a professional assess if detox services for cannabis withdrawal are needed so that you get the proper support for managing symptoms. A professional drug detox will also give you access to medical support in case any complications arise during withdrawal.
Benefits of Quitting Marijuana
Learning about the benefits of quitting marijuana can also motivate you during your recovery journey. Whenever you feel discouraged about the process, you can look back at these benefits and use them as inspiration to continue healing:
- Better Overall Health: Since marijuana can affect your organs and physical health, you may experience increased energy levels, a stronger immune system, and better function after you stop using it.
- Enhanced Mental Health and Cognitive Function: Abusing marijuana can alter your brain chemistry. Stopping marijuana addiction can help you think clearly and have a better cognitive function.
- Improved Relationships: Withdrawal from friends and family during addiction can put a strain on your relationships. Stopping the addiction can help you be more present and emotionally available for them.
- Increased Motivation: Many marijuana users struggle with productivity and lack of drive when using marijuana. When you stop using marijuana, it will be easier to regain your focus and motivation.
- Financial Savings: It’s going to be expensive to fund your weed addiction. When you stop it, you free up money that can be used for other ventures.
Overcome Weed Addiction and Live a Healthier Life
Weed addiction and other substance use disorders can hurt your overall health. However, we acknowledge that quitting isn’t easy, and sometimes, you need that extra support to motivate you to stop the bad habit.
At Luxe Recovery LA, we’re here to help you overcome weed addiction and live a healthier life. Our team knows how isolating it is to go through the recovery journey alone. With our help, we hope you can find healing and live a more fulfilling life free from substance abuse.
Our team is always here to help you. Whether through phone or email, there will always be someone on the other end of the line more than happy to get you on the path to sobriety.
