Why Do I Experience Unpleasant Symptoms After Ceasing Cannabis Use?

Did you cease cannabis use that has been heavy and prolonged (i.e., usually daily or almost daily use over a period of at least a few months)?

Did you experience irritability, anger, or aggression within approximately 1 week after cessation of heavy and prolonged cannabis use?

Did you experience nervousness or anxiety within approximately 1 week after cessation of heavy and prolonged cannabis use?

Did you experience sleep difficulties (e.g., insomnia, disturbing dreams) within approximately 1 week after cessation of heavy and prolonged cannabis use?

Did you experience decreased appetite or weight loss within approximately 1 week after cessation of heavy and prolonged cannabis use?

Did you experience restlessness within approximately 1 week after cessation of heavy and prolonged cannabis use?

Did you experience depressed mood within approximately 1 week after cessation of heavy and prolonged cannabis use?

Does at least one of the following physical symptoms cause significant discomfort? Abdominal pain, shakiness/tremors, sweating, fever, chills, or headache.

Do the symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning?

Based on your answers, you may be displaying some uncomfortable signs after cessation of heavy and/or prolonged cannabis use. Cannabis can be addictive, and you may experience withdrawal symptoms once you stop using it. The experience of cannabis withdrawal for one person may be different from another’s. Withdrawal symptoms can be mild or severe. The severity of symptoms depends on many factors, including frequency of use and overall health. The longer you used the drug, the more chance you have of experiencing withdrawal symptoms. The symptoms may not be dangerous, but they can be very uncomfortable. If you have doubts and need professional help, seek medical support.

Based on your answers, you may be displaying several uncomfortable symptoms after ceasing cannabis use. Cannabis (marijuana) is the most commonly used illicit drug. If you have been using cannabis for several months, whether on a daily basis, in binges, or if you have become addicted, you may experience withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop using. Cannabis withdrawal symptoms are usually unpleasant but not as severe as withdrawal symptoms from other drugs. However, you can still experience physical and psychological problems. You may not necessarily need treatment, but your doctor may be the right person to ask for advises.

Unfortunately, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have cannabis withdrawal. In most of the cases, professional help is not needed to quit cannabis use. There are no dangers in quitting cannabis cold turkey on your own. But sometimes people need medical guidance and assistance to get rid of the addiction. Even though cannabis withdrawal symptoms are not as severe as other substances, cannabis withdrawal should be taken seriously. The symptoms usually stop within 3 days after the last use of cannabis. It may be useful to receive guidance from a therapist when you want to quit cannabis use and to join support groups.