For people who have used cannabis extensively over a prolonged period, quitting the drug can be difficult. Studies on the prevalence of cannabis withdrawal reveal that roughly 47% of regular cannabis users display obvious cannabis withdrawal symptoms among other less common signs.

Understanding withdrawal, its symptoms, and how to control them will enable you to negotiate this process more easily.

This article seeks to clarify cannabis withdrawal, including information on its causes, some symptoms you should expect when you stop using cannabis, and strategies for managing the shift away from cannabis use.

Key Takeaways

• Symptoms of cannabis withdrawal could be changes in appetite, irritability, and problems sleeping.
• These symptoms usually begin a few days after stopping cannabis and symptoms might linger for several weeks.
• The degree of withdrawal might vary depending on how often and how much cannabis you use.
• Managing withdrawal calls for lifestyle adjustments and medical therapy.
• If you develop severe withdrawal symptoms after stopping the use of cannabis, seek professional assistance.

What Is Cannabis Withdrawal?

Cannabis withdrawal is how your body responds to the lack of THC, the primary psychoactive component found in cannabis. This usually manifests as a range of unpleasant symptoms. 

Using cannabis over a long time causes your brain to become accustomed to the effects of THC. Your brain has to readjust drastically when you stop unexpectedly. This sudden change is what leads to cannabis withdrawal.

Fortunately, your body simply needs time to adjust.

Marijuana Withdrawal Timeline

Usually, cannabis withdrawal symptoms run anywhere from a few days to many weeks. Here is a brief breakdown:

Time Frame	Symptoms Likely to Occur
1-2 Days	Irritability, cravings
2-6 Days	Peak symptoms, anxiety
1-2 Weeks	Symptoms start to fade

Everyone has a unique experience with cannabis withdrawal. While some people may experience it for several weeks, others could feel a bit off for only several days.

Common Symptoms of Cannabis Withdrawal

Cannabis withdrawal symptoms show up after you give up using cannabis. These can be rather disruptive, manifesting as both physical and psychological changes.

Physical Symptoms

• Headaches
• Sweating
• Shaking
• Tremors and nausea
• Changes in appetite
• Fatigue

Psychological Symptoms

• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Restlessness
• Confusion
• Brain fog
• Odd dreams

Though they can be uncomfortable, these symptoms normally are not harmful, albeit their degree may vary.

Factors Affecting the Severity and Likelihood of Developing Cannabis Withdrawal

The severity of these symptoms can rely on several elements:

• Your likelihood of experiencing withdrawal symptoms from cannabis increases with the frequency of use.
• Those who use cannabis heavily could find it more difficult to stop and have more severe effects.
• Stopping suddenly will cause obvious withdrawal symptoms if you have been taking cannabis every day.
• Your overall physical and mental health also affects the severity and likelihood of noticing withdrawal symptoms.
• Different cannabis consumption techniques can influence withdrawal. For instance, compared to edibles, smoking usually causes more severe symptoms.
• Stronger withdrawals may result from using high-THC concentrates.
• Using other drugs combined with cannabis can aggravate withdrawal. For example, commonly combining cannabis with nicotine or alcohol raises the possibility of developing withdrawal symptoms.

Managing Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms

Let’s take a look at some ways you can reduce the severity of your withdrawal symptoms.

Home Therapies

There are several basic home treatments you could use to ease withdrawal symptoms. Here are some ideas you might try:

• Drink lots of water to assist with toxin flushing.
• Give fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins top priority. Steering clear of junk meals since they may likely make symptoms worse.
• Frequent exercise could improve your mood and enable better sleep.

Medical Treatments

Should home cures fail, you could consider giving medicinal alternatives some thought. Here are some possible remedies:

• Synthetic THC can help with withdrawal symptoms. An example is dronabinol, sometimes known as Marinol.
• Medications for anxiety can assist if you are frequently irritable or nervous.
• If you develop sleep disorders like insomnia, your doctor may recommend sleeping aids.

Lifestyle Changes

Another major difference can come from some lifestyle modifications. Here are some ideas:

• Establish a routine, A daily routine helps you stay concentrated and lowers stress.
• Surround yourself with friends or relatives who know what you are experiencing and can provide emotional support.
• Try mindfulness practices. Yoga or meditation are among the ways you might help your mind to relax and lower tension.

When Should You Seek Professional Help?

Quitting cannabis might be difficult at times, so you can feel as though you need some more help. These are some signs that it could be time to seek expert advice:

• You find it difficult to function because of extreme withdrawal symptoms.
• You tried stopping on your own, but you always returned to cannabis.
• Your cannabis use influences your daily life, such as your relationships or job.

Professional Support Options

Should you choose to seek help, you have various choices:

• Detox centers: These detoxification centers provide medical care as you manage withdrawal symptoms, thereby helping you through the first stages of stopping.
• Rehabilitation specialists: If you require additional care, inpatient rehabilitation centers can offer a disciplined regimen to assist with withdrawal.
• Intensive outpatient programs: These give you flexibility while you work on your recovery by allowing you to visit therapy sessions while still residing at home.

Choose the Right Treatment for You

It can make a lot of difference to find the appropriate help and choose the best program. The following are some pointers:

• Investigate neighborhood facilities and read reviews.
• Get referrals from relatives or friends.
• See a health professional to go over your choices.

Bottom Line

Now you have it! If you or someone you love is considering cutting back or stopping cannabis use, being informed of cannabis withdrawal symptoms is absolutely crucial.

Though it might be a bit difficult, cannabis withdrawal syndrome can be managed effectively if you know what to expect. You do not have to go through this alone, whether you have conversations with a friend, a doctor, or a support group. Just take it one day at a time; know things will improve!