Marijuana (also known as cannabis or weed) is a plant-based drug that can be inhaled as a smoke or taken as a food. Marijuana affects each user in different ways, so the signs and symptoms of use can vary from person to person. If you are concerned that a friend or family member is using it, try to identify the most common physical and mental symptoms, such as red eyes and slow reaction times. You may notice other signs, such as distinctive smells or changes in the person's behavior or interests. If you have evidence confirming marijuana use, try talking to the person concerned and express your concerns.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Recognizing the Symptoms of Marijuana Use
Step 1. Notice the redness of the eyes
A marijuana user may have very red or bloodshot eyes. However, don't rely on this single symptom as an indicator of marijuana use. Red eyes can be caused by a large number of other factors, for example:
- Allergies
- Illnesses (such as the flu)
- Lack of sleep
- Cry
- Irritants in the eye
- Excessive exposure to sunlight
Step 2. Look for signs of lightheadedness
A person who has taken marijuana may feel dizzy or uncoordinated. If she often stumbles, is strangely clumsy, or complains of feeling dizzy, these could be signs of marijuana use.
Step 3. Check reaction times
Marijuana affects users' perception of time and can considerably slow down their reaction time compared to when they are sober. For example, if you are chatting with someone who has just used marijuana, you may need to repeat yourself many times or you may have to wait a long time for this person to respond to what you said.
- Due to slow reaction times, people under the influence of marijuana are at high risk of accidents should they decide to drive.
- If a person you suspect has been using marijuana is about to drive, you could casually offer to drive in their place.
Step 4. Make a note of memorization skills and concentration problems
In addition to slowing the reaction time, marijuana inhibits memorization functions. A person who has just used cannabis may find it difficult to remember an event that just happened, hold a conversation, or keep the thread of the conversation.
Step 5. Identify ridiculous behavior and excessive laughter
Marijuana can cause euphoria and uninhibited behavior. A person who has just used it may be laughing for no apparent reason or excessively at things that they wouldn't normally find particularly funny.
This is especially true if acting silly is not typical of that person
Step 6. Pay attention to his eating habits
Marijuana can stimulate the appetite. A person who has just used it may feel "munchies" and feel the need to eat more often than usual.
Step 7. Look for signs of anxiety or paranoia
While marijuana usually makes you feel relaxed or euphoric, it can sometimes induce agitation, anxiety, or delusional thoughts. A person experiencing marijuana-induced anxiety may be suffering from a fast heartbeat or full-blown panic attacks.
Part 2 of 3: Observe other Possible Signals
Step 1. Check if you can smell the marijuana
Cannabis has a distinct, often musky and faintly sweet smell. This odor may remain on the clothing, skin, hair and breath of those who have used it. You may also feel it in the room where it is used or where items related to its consumption are stored.
A marijuana user might try to hide the odor through the use of perfume, cologne, mints, incense, or air fresheners in the room (s) in which they use them
Step 2. Look for items related to marijuana use
Cannabis can be consumed in many different ways. Look around for any of the following tools:
- Papers for long or short cigarettes
- Pipe (often glass)
- Bong (or water pipe)
- Electronic cigarettes
- Tobacco grinder
Step 3. Pay attention to changes in behavior and relationships
Prolonged use of marijuana can lead to various mental and behavioral changes. A user could be subject to drops in energy and motivation. Depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders can get worse or present for the first time. Cannabis use can also affect interpersonal relationships and performance at school or at work. You may also notice:
- Loss of interest in things that the person used to appreciate.
- Changes in habits regarding money. For example, the user may often ask for money, start stealing it or spend it quickly without being able to explain how it is used.
- Evasive behaviors (for example, behaving as if he were hiding something or not being able to provide direct answers to questions regarding his behavior).
Part 3 of 3: Communicating with the Person
Step 1. Wait until the person is sober
If you want to discuss your concerns about possible drug use, it is best to approach when the person is sober and able to think clearly. Those who have just used cannabis may not be able to communicate with you or follow what you are trying to say.
Step 2. Choose a time when the person is calm and relaxed
It is good to have this type of discussion in a relatively calm atmosphere. If the person has had a difficult week, or if you've spent the day arguing, it's probably best to wait until they're in a more positive state of mind.
Trying to talk about it at a time when the person is in a bad mood can cause them to get defensive, which would likely make the conversation unproductive
Step 3. Ask him if he uses marijuana
Depending on the type of relationship you have, you may be able to ask yourself directly if this person uses marijuana. Keep your approach simple, direct, and free of bias.
For example, you might say, "Hey, I've noticed you've been acting different lately and I've noticed a weird smell in your room. Are you smoking marijuana?"
Step 4. Make your concerns known
If the person thinks that you are angry or that you are judging them, they are less likely to open up. Clearly show that you are understanding and only want to help.
For example, when you talk to a friend, you might say, "I have noticed that you are often holding back when we have plans and you always seem so tired when we meet. Are you okay? I am very worried about you!"
Step 5. Stay calm
Panicking or getting angry does not usually improve the situation. Talk to the person calmly, without raising your voice, threatening or sarcastic. If your approach is hostile or fearful, the person will be less likely to share their feelings and the situation could get worse.
