What are the signs of cannabis overuse?

While cannabis is a drug with a very high threshold for overdose, excessive use can still have certain effects.

Some effects are mild (an impromptu nap, for example), but the line between whether you’ve smoked too much or not is often blurred. Cannabis use—and therefore overuse—affects the endocannabinoid system, a system within the human body that regulates various functions such as sleep, appetite, memory, etc. The « foncedalle »is a good example, but cannabis abuse can also have more harmful long-term effects.".

How do I know if I'm smoking too much cannabis?

Here are some symptoms of excessive cannabis or hashish use. Experiencing just one of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have a cannabis addiction. If you check multiple boxes, you might want to consider taking at least a break from using cannabis.

Changes in relationships with others due to substance use

«Have you been smoking? No? But your eyes look bloodshot.» That little lie changes everything. Not only does the smoker fail to own up to it, but it also makes the other person suspicious. In a France where the user is demonized, it’s not easy to talk about one’s use with people who often have a preconceived opinion. Hiding one’s use is often the easiest option, but lying is wrong. Being able to talk about one’s use is undoubtedly easier said than done, but hiding part of one’s life from those close to you isn’t a solution and turns one’s use into a secret ritual. The main risk is turning a blind eye to one’s relationship with cannabis and completely denying it. the negative effects it may have.

Lower productivity

Even though cannabis doesn’t necessarily hurt productivity, overusing it will never turn a 4L into a Formula 3000 car. Some people use it to help them get through a tough time or to give themselves a physical or mental «boost.» However, the lethargy that takes hold of the cannabis user often gets the better of them. Controlling your use also means taking care of your responsibilities before getting high.

Feeling the need to smoke just for fun in a situation where it isn't necessary

Lighting up a joint at any time and for no reason can be a sign of overuse. The situation might be more fun in the moment, but this use will cloud your judgment during an important moment. Movies seem funnier, and your perception of tastes and sounds is different. But do we always need that?

Severe short-term memory loss to the point of becoming a disability

«Where are my keys? Where’s my phone? Have you seen my wallet?» If you find yourself asking these questions over and over again, it’s probably time to cut back a little. Using drugs during school or work hours could cause you to miss important information.

Constant fatigue that is more severe than usual

If you feel constantly tired after every time you smoke, you should cut back on the number of joints. If that doesn’t work, try switching suppliers to test a different product. Or, more simply, cut back or even stop smoking altogether.

A budget that's beyond our means

If cannabis starts to take up a significant portion of your personal budget, the drug has taken control of your mind. Just like alcohol, cigarettes, or gambling, jeopardizing your monthly budget for an addiction is not a good sign.

Even with a large dose, it’s impossible to feel good and be all smiles

A strong joint, three hits, and yet nothing—except for a heavy feeling in your eyes. If the desired effect doesn’t kick in, you’ll just have to wait it out. Your body has become far too accustomed to THC, and your usual doses no longer have any effect. There’s no point in packing your joints heavier; the only solution is to take a break to let your tolerance return to normal.

Preserving the Joy of Eating

The pleasure of rolling one and then declaring it must remain intact. If that pleasure is lost, Addiction becomes a reality.

Seam alignment without justification

Every smoker knows at least one person who can smoke a joint and roll another one right after. If the high doesn’t kick in after a string of joints, it’s probably because that person has built up too much tolerance to cannabis and no longer feels anything. Is smoking without enjoyment or effect really worth it?

Anxiety

If a smoker is grumpy, cranky, and impulsive, it’s because they haven’t had their fix yet. If you find yourself unable to smile without a joint, you need to cut back. Do this by setting specific times or situations when you can smoke.

How can I quit using cannabis?

When you decide to stop using cannabis, your first step is to choose the approach that best suits you and your needs. While some people find it easier than others to quit cannabis, your own experience may depend on whether or not you have developed a dependence or addiction to the substance.

The cannabis withdrawal can then be understood in two different ways:

• gradual reduction in use, by gradually decreasing the amount of cannabis consumed over a given period
• cold turkey, which involves simply stopping cannabis use altogether

In both cases, the Weaning can cause some symptoms, which are often harmless but can sometimes be unpleasant.

All of these symptoms result from the body’s cannabinoid system becoming accustomed to high doses of cannabis. Everyone experiences different symptoms of overuse and has different tolerance levels. Some people may smoke their entire lives without experiencing a single one of these signs. If you’re not really sure where you stand and would like to talk about it, the easiest thing to do is contact local organizations. These individuals will be able to listen to you without judging you and will offer appropriate solutions if that is what you are looking for.