Cannabis Dependence: Reasons People Quit, Symptoms and the Healing Process

Cannabis, while known for its recreational and medicinal properties, can lead to dependency for some individuals. The journey of reducing or quitting cannabis use is challenging but offers many benefits. This article provides insights into the reasons people quit, the symptoms of cannabis dependence, the healing process, and suggestions on how to reduce cannabis consumption.

Reasons People Quit Cannabis

The main motivations for individuals to reduce or quit cannabis usage revolve around improving overall health, both mentally and physically, and enhancing psychosocial functioning.

• Improved Health and Psychosocial Functioning: Many users aim to enhance their mood, memory, concentration, and respiratory health. By reducing cannabis consumption, they also hope to improve learning abilities and tackle issues in their personal and professional lives.
• Reducing Consumption: By lowering their tolerance, users can experience the effects of cannabis more profoundly with lesser amounts and be more active when not under its influence. A significant benefit is the improved mental health many users report. Furthermore, for those considering quitting, a gradual reduction in consumption can make withdrawal symptoms less intense.

Symptoms of Cannabis Dependence

Recognizing the signs of cannabis dependence is the first step towards addressing the issue. These symptoms range from behavioral changes to physical manifestations.

• Lack of control in cannabis use.
• Conflicts arising in various spheres of life due to cannabis.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms after ceasing cannabis use.
• Needing a larger dose to achieve the same effects.
• Failed attempts to quit or lessen cannabis consumption.
• Prioritizing cannabis in conversations, thoughts, and daily routines.

Healing Process of Cannabis Dependence

Quitting cannabis leads to a series of physiological and psychological changes, marking the healing process.

• 1 to 3 days After Quitting: Users may experience withdrawal symptoms, including irritability. Lungs begin their healing journey, which can continue for years.
• Two days to 1 Week After Quitting: Physical discomfort and mood swings may intensify. Around the one-week mark, depression is common. Brain receptors responsible for various neurological processes start returning to their normal functioning.
• 2 Weeks After Quitting: Most withdrawal symptoms diminish, but sleep disturbances, especially vivid dreams, might persist.
• 4 Weeks to Months After Quitting: Brain receptors fully restore their function, leading to noticeable improvements in memory, mental clarity, and attention span.

Tips to Reduce Cannabis Use

For those looking to cut down on their cannabis consumption, here are actionable strategies that can make the process more manageable.

1. Use Less Cannabis Per Joint: Make more joints using less cannabis.
2. Delay Morning Usage: Postpone the first joint of the day.
3. Increase Intervals Between Uses: Space out your cannabis sessions.
4. Opt for Vaporization: Limit tobacco use and consider vaporizing.
5. Reduce Caffeine Intake: Cut back on coffee as you reduce cannabis.
6. Engage in Activities: Stay active and pick up hobbies.
7. Spend Time with Non-smokers: Surround yourself with supportive people.
8. Change Your Environment: A new setting can reduce triggers.
9. Portion Your Cannabis: Monitor and manage your daily consumption.
10. Monitor Alcohol Intake: Be wary of replacing cannabis with alcohol.
11. Adjust Your Reducing Speed: Gradually reduce your consumption.
12. Change Your Perspective: Focus on the benefits of reduced consumption.
13. Follow the H.A.L.T. Program: Stay vigilant about being Hungry, Angry, Lonely, and Tired, and take corrective actions when these states arise.

In conclusion, while cannabis dependence is challenging, recognizing the symptoms and following the steps towards reduction can lead to improved health, better psychosocial functioning, and overall well-being.

References:
Global Drug Survey. Safer Drug Use Limit Guidelines: The world’s first safer drug use limit guide
How to Quit Smoking Weed – Effective Guides for Quitting Marijuana (2022) by Trafalgar Addiction Treatment Centres