Marijuana has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for centuries. However, the legalization of marijuana in some states has led to an increase in its use. While many users enjoy the benefits of marijuana, such as relaxation and pain relief, there is a downside that is often overlooked – withdrawals.
According to research conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), approximately 9% of people who use marijuana will become addicted to it. Furthermore, up to 80% of those who stop using marijuana will experience withdrawal symptoms.
Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe and can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Symptoms include irritability, anxiety, insomnia, loss of appetite, nausea, headaches, sweating and tremors.
If you are one of the millions suffering from withdrawals after quitting marijuana use or considering quitting soon – this article is for you! Read on as we explore how these symptoms occur and what you can do about them.
Why Do Withdrawals Happen?
When someone uses marijuana regularly over time their brain adjusts its chemistry so that they need more THC (the active ingredient) than before just to feel normal. When they stop using suddenly their brain chemistry goes out-of-whack causing withdrawal symptoms while it tries to readjust back again.
How Long Do Withdrawals Last?
The length and severity of withdrawal symptoms depend on several factors including how long an individual has been using marijuana; how much they have been using; their age; genetics; overall health status as well as other factors like whether or not they also consume alcohol or other drugs during this period which might complicate things further still!
Typically speaking though most people report feeling better within two weeks after cessation with all physical discomforts gone by week three yet psychological issues like depression or anxiety may persist longer into recovery depending upon individual circumstances.
How to Overcome Withdrawals
There are several things you can do to ease the symptoms of marijuana withdrawals, including:
1. Gradual Reduction of Use
Gradually reducing your use of marijuana over time is one way to minimize withdrawal symptoms. This method involves slowly decreasing the amount and frequency of marijuana use until you are no longer using it at all. By doing this, your body will have more time to adjust its chemistry back to normal levels, reducing the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
2. Exercise
Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common symptoms associated with marijuana withdrawals. It also helps release endorphins that improve mood and promote feelings of well-being.
3. Meditation or Yoga
Meditation or yoga can help calm the mind and reduce stress levels, making it easier for individuals going through withdrawals from cannabis use feel less anxious or depressed during their recovery period.
4. Healthy Diet & Hydration
Eating a healthy diet rich in nutrients such as vitamins C & B complex; magnesium; zinc etc., drinking plenty water (minimum 8 glasses daily) while avoiding caffeine/alcohol/sugar-laden drinks like soda/juice etc., can help support overall health during recovery from drug abuse disorders like cannabis addiction too!
5. Support Groups
Support groups offer people who are struggling with addiction an opportunity to connect with others who understand what they’re going through without fear judgmental attitudes often present in mainstream society today towards those dealing with substance abuse issues whether legal or illegal substances being abused alike! Sharing experiences within these groups provides hope for recovery while learning new coping mechanisms together as well as building lifelong friendships along the way too!
Strategies for coping with cravings and triggers during the recovery process
6 .Professional Help
If you find yourself struggling with severe withdrawal symptoms that don’t seem manageable on your own despite trying some self-help methods mentioned above – seeking professional help may be necessary especially if other underlying mental health conditions exist too! A licensed therapist or addiction specialist can help you manage your symptoms and develop a plan for recovery that works best for your unique needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, marijuana withdrawals are a real and serious issue that affects many individuals who use the drug regularly. However, there are several ways to ease the symptoms of withdrawal and overcome them. Gradual reduction of use, exercise, meditation or yoga, healthy diet & hydration as well as support groups and professional help are all effective methods for managing withdrawal symptoms. If you’re struggling with marijuana withdrawals – don’t give up hope! There is always help available when needed most.
