It is virtually impossible to get rid of the effects of marijuana immediately. The part of the plant that causes the excitement is the chemical delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (more simply known as THC), which can vary greatly from plant to plant, often based on how it was grown, processed and stored; this means that the effects it causes can change considerably. However, there are some things you can do to reduce the effect; Furthermore, you can take steps to give up marijuana permanently, so as to avoid this situation in the future.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Mitigating the Effects of Cannabis
Step 1. Know how long the effects last
A "high" usually subsides within three hours and the peak occurs about half an hour after smoking. However, if you consume cannabis orally or take too much, the effects last longer; the state of arousal can continue for up to six hours or more. It can also have unpredictable effects if marijuana is mixed with other drugs; if you have taken a large dose, you may feel the effects for much longer.
- It can happen that you take in too much when you eat it, because the effects are not as fast as you might expect, as a result you are prone to consume more.
- In fact, the drug can stay in the body for up to two days.
Step 2. Ask for a sedative for panic attacks
Some people want to get rid of the altered state because they exhibit an unexpected sense of paranoia or a panic attack. You can't speed up the time it takes to "wipe" the effects of the herb, but you can take a sedative from the benzodiazepine family if you have been prescribed it (and only if you have a prescription for this class of drugs).
Always talk to your doctor before mixing a prescription drug with a recreational drug; they can tell you if it's safe for you
Step 3. Sleep
Since the effect of cannabis can last so long, one of the best things you can do is sleep to soothe it. Of course, if you are having a panic attack, it can be difficult to fall asleep, but this is where a sedative can help.
Step 4. Ask someone to stay with you
You must avoid harming or hurting yourself during the "high"; having someone around can therefore help. Also, having someone to talk to allows you to better manage the situation in case you experience a panic attack.
Part 2 of 2: Quit Permanently
Step 1. Commit to quit
The best way to help yourself is to get rid of this addiction. If you don't do it, no one else can do it for you; it is a decision that must start with yourself.
However, take it one step at a time. Perhaps, the first thing to do is to find a rehabilitation program, while the second is probably to participate in it. Choose the steps you can take on a day-to-day basis
Step 2. Fight addiction
Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to actually experience marijuana addiction. This addiction in some people is due precisely to the state of arousal and alteration that the herb causes, because they want to try it again. It has been found that around 25-50% of regular users become addicted to the drug.
Step 3. Get help
It is not easy to stop taking all kinds of drugs on your own. Addiction is a chronic problem for many people; various services are needed to "accompany" the patient during the detoxification process and provide him with the necessary support. Find a rehabilitation program that fits your needs. If you need to take a break from your usual life, stick to a program that allows you to get away from the habits that cause you to continue smoking for a while. If the family supports you, you can find a local support group, such as Narcotics Anonymous.
- The National Health Service offers resources for people wishing to quit drugs. For example, you can contact the local health authority SerT for your area to find a rehabilitation center suited to your needs.
- Seek the help of psychologists specializing in addictions, mutual aid groups, informed about drug therapy and psychotherapy; some or even all of these services may prove helpful in overcoming addiction.
Step 4. Learn to face life
Consuming drugs like marijuana is often a way to escape problems; therefore, one way to "get out of the tunnel" is to learn how to manage stress without having to rely on drugs. Rehabilitation programs and support groups can help you, but you also need to learn how to find mechanisms to deal with problems on your own.
- One way to overcome stress is to talk to people you trust. Even if you can't find a solution, sometimes just discussing what ails you can help you find some relief.
- Don't be afraid to take a break from an anxious situation. If there is an issue that is creating a lot of tension, such as a job problem, don't be afraid to walk away from it for a while; take a moment to take a few deep breaths and clear your mind. Do not even be afraid to leave aside the thoughts that are stressing you in life; for example, if you find media news distressing, you should consider not listening to it or reading it for a while.
Step 5. Expect psychological side effects
If you have been smoking marijuana for a long time, you probably develop negative reactions when you decide to quit. Some people find it difficult to sleep when they stop, while others experience depression or excessive anger. Another effect of abstinence is given by more intense dreams, because the use of marijuana tends to dampen them.
Step 6. Be prepared for the physical effects of withdrawal
You will likely experience physical symptoms as well. You may suffer from headaches for some time or complain of night sweats; you may also expectorate mucus, have less appetite, suffer from tremors or dizziness.
Step 7. Find new friends
If all of your old friends smoke weed and you keep hanging out, you are more likely to fall back into the habit. Try to surround yourself with new people who enjoy other activities. For example, you might join a local group of people who have the same interests and hobbies as you. You can volunteer or take a gym class. Find people who like to do the same things you do, except smoke marijuana.
Do some research online to find recreation groups in your area
Step 8. Stay hydrated
Drinking a lot of water allows you to excrete some of the active ingredient of the herb; Plus, hydration makes you feel better overall.
- Although it is usually recommended to drink eight glasses of water a day, experts recommend thirteen for men and nine for women.
- Try drinking some cranberry juice in addition to water, as it helps the detox process.
Step 9. Get some potassium
If you have problems with excessive sweating, eat foods rich in this mineral; try unpeeled potatoes, melons, bananas, citrus fruits, and dark green leafy vegetables.
Step 10. Avoid caffeine
Since the detox process causes insomnia, you don't have to make the problem worse; do not drink coffee while you are trying to restore a normal sleep / wake rhythm.
Step 11. Exercise
Exercise allows you to feel naturally euphoric and puts you in a good mood; Plus, it helps you stay healthy and recover from addiction quickly. Try to exercise several times a week to counteract depression and insomnia.
