The word ‘weed’ has taken a whole different meaning the past few years. Weed, in its general sense, is an undesirable plant growing in a cultivated plot such as parks, farms, and gardens. However, weed is also now used to refer to Cannabis or marijuana. Weed is derived from the Cannabis sativa plant endemic to the Central and South Asian regions. In some countries such as Australia, Belgium, and Canada, marijuana is used as a medicinal drug. It is used to aid in treating diseases like HIV/AIDS and cancer. It is also used to alleviate pain, seizures and muscle spasms. However, studies show that almost 10% of patients using marijuana become dependent to it.
Individuals under the influence of marijuana often experience the following symptoms: ‘high’ feeling, dizziness, shallow breathing, increased heart rate and blood sugar, dry mouth, dilated pupils, blood shot red eyes, increased appetite and slower reaction time. In the long run, they may also experience anxiety, depression, memory loss, weight loss, and IQ loss.
Compared to other addictive substances, the symptoms of marijuana withdrawal are milder. The answer to the question, ‘To be honest (TBH) how do some people manage to stop smoking weed successfully?’ is that marijuana addicts often undergo detoxification. This detoxification process starts on the very last day of marijuana intake.
The intensity of the symptoms depends largely on several factors:
- The amount of marijuana intake – Heavy consumers of marijuana often experience more intense symptoms.
- The frequency and length of use
- General health – Those with better health and good metabolism can get rid of the toxins quicker and end the withdrawal symptoms quicker.
- Body type – THC (tetrahydrocannabiol) molecules are stored in fat tissues. Those with more fat tissues would more likely have more amount of THC in their body.
- Emotional and mental health
- Family support
Those undergoing the detoxification process may experience the following symptoms: cravings, chills, headaches, sweating, and gastrointestinal diseases. They may also experience insomnia, mood changes, appetite changes, repressed sexual drive, vivid dreams and depression.
To soothe the withdrawal symptoms individuals may do the following:
1) Stay hydrated
As enumerated above, those undergoing the withdrawal process may experience sweating, It is therefore important to stay hydrated. Drink at least two to three liters per a day. Avoid sweet and sugary drinks such as carbonated drinks, fruits juices and the like.
2) Stay away from caffeine
Caffeine will only aggravate insomnia. It is best to stay away from caffeine until a regular sleeping habit is developed.
3) Exercise
Sweating through exercise will release the toxins thereby speeding up the process. Exercise also releases endorphins, also known as happy hormones, thereby uplifting one’s mood.
4) Stop using other addictive substances
Marijuana and other drugs are not the only addictive substances around. Alcohol, cigarettes and the like must also be eliminated during the process. Intake of these substances during the detoxification period may lead to the development of another substance abuse problem.
If all the aforementioned tips fail, it is best to consult an expert to address the question “to be honest (TBH) how do some people manage to stop smoking weed successfully?” Some individuals prefer admitting themselves to rehabilitation centers to seek better help.