Even though marijuana use has been legalized in many states, there is a risk of developing a dependency on weed for some people. Trying to recover can be especially difficult due to the withdrawal symptoms, which can make quitting a huge challenge.
However, reducing and finally quitting smoking is entirely possible if you have a plan. You should also remember that you do not have to be dependent on weed in order to decide that you want to quit. This article focuses on some steps you can take to help you stop smoking weed.
Understanding your mindset
Your first step should be to fully understand why you want to quit. You can do this by thinking about the effect weed has on your daily life. Once you begin your journey knowing exactly why you want to let go of your habits, it will be easier for you to stick to your goal and stay anchored.
Your second step should be identifying your triggers. Do you smoke when you are with your friends? Do you smoke when you have had a tough day at work? Do you smoke right after waking up? Once you have identified these triggers not only are you in a better position to steer clear of them during your journey but also are better equipped to cope with them in case of any urges. Additionally, your triggers will help you decide which plan to choose when quitting.
Choose what works best for you
Remember, the journey towards recovery will look different for everyone. It’s best to do what works best for you. You can either go cold turkey or slowly taper your use. Either way, it’s best to remove all weed-related gear in your homes such as bowls and bongs.
Any product that can be a reminder or an aid to smoking should not be in sight so as to reduce the temptation when the cravings kick in. Using willpower to quit works for some people however it is difficult to use willpower during times of stress, which might be a trigger for many.
If you choose to taper your use, your first step should be to get a sense of how much you are consuming. Follow that up with setting a goal in terms of consumption based on what you already consume. You can decide the amount you want to reduce each day and eventually each week. Speak to a professional to help you set quantities that will allow you to gradually reduce the dosage that you consume. Your withdrawal symptoms will not be as intense in this method as they are if you decide to quit cold turkey.
Get support
Surrounding yourself with people who can act as your support network will greatly help you fight your cravings and withdrawal. Healthy connections with people will ensure that you stay on track. Try to pick up on hobbies with people. Perhaps play a sport or learn an instrument with someone to help you stay busy. Try exercising daily since it will help cope with stress and distract you from the urges that arise.
Meditation and practicing mindfulness will also help during your journey. Join a group class where you can collectively work on managing withdrawal. Being mindful of the process of smoking involves focusing on the immediate unpleasant feeling of smoking. You can use the uncomfortable physical feeling associated with smoking to help you quit.
Moreover, motivation will come when family and friends encourage you and talk about the positive effect quitting has had on you and your relationships with people around them.
Have a contingency plan
Focus on why you started
Remember, the fact that you want to quit is a huge achievement – one that you should be proud of. Research shows that it takes a few slip-ups before one is able to successfully quit smoking. Don’t be disappointed, rather focus on why you started.
Know that the benefits of quitting smoking weed include improved memory, increased energy, decreased anxiety and less paranoia, to name a few. Concentrating on the gains will help keep you on the right path.
Lastly, reward yourself. The best way to stay consistent is to treat yourself in celebration of your wins, no matter how small or big. You can enjoy a nice meal or a weekend getaway with the money you save by not spending on weed or you could save up for an even bigger reward such as a holiday.
