With the increasing popularity of the use of marijuana, one could wonder if there is any need or benefit of quitting weed. Well, the answer is, yes, there are numerous benefits of quitting weed.
Marijuana is mostly considered to be very harmless, non-addictive, and taken for fun, but withdrawal does take time and effort. The journey of withdrawal could vary depending on various factors like how often a person consumes weed, how is the overall health of the person, age, etc.
A few could find the journey very irritating and could have major mood swings for people like this professional help is always recommended. Research suggests that weed can be less addictive and less harmful, but addiction and dependency still happens.
Research suggests that depression, anxiety, flu-like symptoms, weight changes, insomnia, irritability could be a few of the symptoms of quitting weed.
Effects of Quitting Marijuana
Quitting WeedThe effects of quitting marijuana are not life-threatening. One might feel extra edgy or irritable while quitting marijuana, but these are some of the common symptoms which might last 24 hours to 72 hours.
The signs and symptoms may vary from person to person depending on the frequency of usage, overall health, etc.
1. Irritability
Irritability can range from mild to severe and can also lead to annoyance and aggression. If the symptoms seem to prolong even after a week of quitting, it is advised to seek professional help.
2. Anxiety
A few people consume weed to fight anxiety. Cannabis intoxication and withdrawal both cause anxiety. The feeling of anxiousness and paranoia are quite common while quitting the weed. There are different breathing techniques that one could follow to fight anxiety.
In case the feeling of anxiousness continues even after a week, consulting a specialist may help, as they can suggest other ways to cope with anxiety.
3. Cravings
During the initial days of withdrawal, one may find themselves craving for the substance. One might experience stronger cravings in the evening hours; it is advised to make an evening routine.
Going for a short walk, doing some yoga, or occupying oneself with other activities can help reduce the cravings. Every time you feel like taking the substance, think about why you started the journey of withdrawal.
4. Depression
Persistent mood swings, feelings of blue, losing interest in daily activities could also be the effect of cannabis withdrawal.
5. Sleep Problems
A few smokers report sleep problems, vivid or disturbing dreams, and insomnia during withdrawal. If one finds it very difficult to sleep fast, here are a few tips for the same.
Sleep Problems6. Headaches
Not everyone experiences headaches, but for those who have this symptom, the intensity can vary. Headaches can start three days after the starting of withdrawal, and usually fade away in a week or two. If the symptoms prolong, seeking professional help is necessary.
Other Symptoms
There are other physical symptoms that one might experience during the process of quitting weed. These are not intense and fade away quicker than other symptoms.
- Stomach aches
- Change in body weight
- Flu-like symptoms
Quitting Weed Benefits
There are numerous benefits of quitting weed, here are a few listed below.
- Decreased chances of lung diseases.
- Reduced feelings of anxiousness, paranoia, and panic attacks. Though feelings of anxiousness and paranoia are also common during the withdrawal, they tend to fade away within a matter of a week.
- Quitting weed benefits in improving and elevating mood and decreasing feelings of depression.
- Improved memory and IQ
- Better focus and attention
- Improvement of overall health
- Better physical and mental health
How to Stop Smoking Weed?
Quitting WeedThere are many ways one can quit the habit of smoking weed. There is no hard and fast rule of method that can work for all. The method that works for you might not be of any help to others.
One can try different methods of withdrawal and see what works for them.
- Write Down Why you Want to Quit:
Self-awareness helps in the long run. When you feel like going back to smoking, you should be in a situation where you can remind yourself of why you started this journey.
Writing down the reasons why you want to quit, may also help you realize why you started smoking in the first place. A few start consuming weed to reduce anxiety or maybe to help themselves with chronic pain or sleeplessness. Finding other ways to deal with anxiety and stress will reduce the dependency to smoke weed.
Triggers like trouble sleeping, work stress, seeing friends who smoke, or watching shows while you were high can make you crave. Listing out the solutions for these triggers can help you better manage your journey of quitting weed. You may want to meditate or do bed-time yoga for better sleep, read books that are calming, managing time can help you manage the triggers.
If you find yourself smoking before bed, try changing it to reading a book or making a bedtime routine, which will distract you from smoking. If you smoke first thing in the morning, try going out for a walk or a run.
Quitting WeedIf smoking something you do in your free time, then try picking up a new hobby to enjoy in your free time. Try going back to your favorite activity that you enjoyed the most.
Talk to someone who would support your decision and who you feel would encourage you with quitting weed. Talk to someone who has already gone through this journey, you will always a lot of benefits.
The journey could be a hard one for some people, but persistence is the key here. Make sure you are taking help from the professionals if needed. Look around. Many people have already passed this journey, and who could be your inspiration. Many want to support you on this journey; talk to them.
Make a schedule for yourself and follow it. Small steps and small frequent reminders go a long way. Whenever you feel like smoking weed again, think back to the time and tell yourself why you started this journey.
We believe in you and your efforts. Wishing you truckloads of success.
Also read- Smoking Weed And Acne
