Many people don’t realize that regular cannabis use can lead to dependence, or that withdrawal symptoms can occur when someone stops using it. In fact, 47% of people who use weed have withdrawal symptoms when they significantly cut back or stop heavy, long-term use.
Fortunately, there are simple strategies you can try at home to ease mild to moderate cannabis withdrawal symptoms. While this experience can be unpleasant, it helps to remember it is temporary. Knowing what to expect can help make this process more manageable.
Keep reading to discover seven tips for managing withdrawal symptoms at home, so you can make it through this transition with confidence.
What symptoms are common with cannabis withdrawal?
Many people turn to cannabis to manage anxiety, stress, sleep issues, and other chronic health conditions. Withdrawal symptoms can occur because your brain and body have become used to the effects of cannabis. When you suddenly cut back or stop using it, your body has to readjust, which is why symptoms often appear.
Identifying the reasons that led to cannabis use can help you address the contributing causes and the symptoms. For instance, if you used cannabis as a sleep aid, you can take steps to create a relaxing bedtime routine or find other ways to unwind before bed.
Typically, withdrawal symptoms begin to develop within the first 24-48 hours and can last up to two weeks. Everyone’s experience is different, and some people can have mild or severe symptoms during withdrawal.
Common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Sweats and chills
- Cravings for cannabis
- Appetite changes
- Mood swings
- Headaches
- Upset stomach
- Flu-like symptoms
7 tips to manage cannabis withdrawal symptoms at home
Whether you’ve developed a dependence on cannabis or simply want to cut back, understanding and managing withdrawal is an important part of the recovery process. At-home care may help relieve mild or moderate symptoms. However, if you think you may be experiencing severe symptoms, reach out to your provider right away. Doing so can help you get the care you need as quickly as possible and reduce the likelihood of complications.
Here are seven tips to manage mild to moderate cannabis withdrawal symptoms at home:
1. Ease your anxiety.
Cannabis withdrawal can make you feel anxious, nervous, or on edge. Fortunately, there are some simple strategies you can try to relieve these feelings. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or journaling can help calm your mind. Listening to relaxing music may also be helpful to calm your body and shift your focus away from your symptoms.
2. Improve your sleep.
Many people have difficulty falling asleep or getting restful sleep during withdrawal. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine may be helpful.
Some helpful tips include:
- Avoid screen time an hour or two before bedtime.
- Keep your bedroom cool and dark.
- Try gentle stretches or reading to relax.
3. Handle cravings.
During withdrawal, some people have cravings to use cannabis. If you experience this symptom, you may find it helpful to distract yourself. You can do one of your favorite hobbies. Writing down the reasons why you want to cut back or quit can help remind you of your commitment. You can also reach out to a friend or family member to talk to.
4. Relieve physical symptoms.
It’s possible to experience headaches and flu-like symptoms during withdrawal. You can reach out to your provider to see if there is a pain reliever that is safe and effective for you to manage these symptoms. Resting and staying hydrated may also help relieve these effects.
5. Eat and drink well.
Cannabis withdrawal can affect appetite in many ways. It may cause a decrease in appetite or increase cravings for foods that are not nutritious. However, eating nutritious foods and drinking water can help your body during withdrawal. Eating fruits and vegetables can help build up vitamin and nutrient levels that can help ease cannabis withdrawal symptoms.
6. Exercise.
Physical activity releases endorphins, which are hormones that help you feel good. Even light exercise like walking, stretching, and yoga releases endorphins. Plus, it can help improve sleep. One study found that adults who exercised at least 30 minutes a day slept about 15 minutes longer than those who didn’t. However, if 30 minutes of physical activity feels like too much for you right now, you can try a shorter amount of time.
7. Create a routine.
Planning a routine during your cannabis withdrawal may help take your mind off your symptoms. Many people find it helpful to wake up and go to bed at consistent times. You can also think about nutritious meals to plan or hobbies you would like to do. Having a routine can ease stress and keep you focused on making it through withdrawal safely.
When to seek immediate medical attention
While many cannabis withdrawal symptoms can be managed with at-home care, you should seek medical help if you experience severe symptoms.
Severe cannabis withdrawal symptoms include:
- Severe chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Confusion or disorientation
- Uncontrollable shaking or seizures
- Suicidal thoughts
- Severe or worsening vomiting or dehydration
- Elevated heart rate or blood pressure that feels uncontrollable
Even if you’re unsure about whether or not your symptoms are severe, it’s OK to reach out for help. If you get the support you need early, you can reduce the likelihood of complications and can feel better more quickly.
Should I do cannabis withdrawal at home?
Before you begin cannabis withdrawal, talk to your provider to see if it’s safe to try. Some people may need to detox in a hospital or facility where they can be monitored and receive immediate care.
Your provider may recommend undergoing cannabis withdrawal in a medical setting if you have the following:
- A physical condition that may worsen with withdrawal
- At least one mental health condition
- Severe cannabis use disorder
- Other substances that you are also withdrawing from
Your provider can let you know which treatment options are safe and effective for you.
Cannabis use and other disorders
Cannabis use disorder doesn’t always exist on its own. Substance use disorders often overlap. In fact, 3 out of 4 people getting treatment for cannabis use disorder also have another substance use disorder. Knowing if you have a co-occurring disorder is an important step toward getting the best treatment to improve your health and well-being.
Groups can help you manage cannabis withdrawal
Cannabis withdrawal can be unpleasant, but fortunately, this experience is temporary, and it can be manageable withtreatment and support. Knowing what can happen and how to ease potential symptoms can make your withdrawal easier. It’s also important to know the severe symptoms that may occur and when to seek immediate medical attention. While everyone’s experience is different, you can take steps to make your withdrawal go as smoothly as possible.
Groups is also here to help you. Currently, we offer treatment for cannabis use disorder in Iowa, and we’re working to expand this service in the future. If you need support through your withdrawal, you can reach out to us.
Give our Recovery Support Coordinators a call today at 888-858-1723 for more information or to begin your recovery. We provide treatment across the country — and we’re always expanding. See if we offer care in your state, either online or at one of our 130+ local offices. If Groups doesn’t offer treatment in your area, you can locate other treatment options here.
