Tag: marijuana withdrawal symptoms

A Complete Breakdown of Cannabis Withdrawal Symptoms

Cannabis is widely used for both medical and recreational purposes across Canada. While it’s considered less addictive than substances like nicotine or alcohol, regular cannabis use can still lead to dependence for some individuals. When someone who frequently consumes cannabis decides to stop, they may experience withdrawal symptoms.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about weed withdrawal, including common cannabis withdrawal symptoms, why they happen, how long they last, and effective strategies for managing them. Whether you’re quitting weed for personal, health, or legal reasons, understanding marijuana withdrawal symptoms can help you navigate the process more confidently.

 

What Is Cannabis Withdrawal?

Cannabis withdrawal refers to a group of physical and psychological symptoms that occur when a regular user abruptly reduces or stops their cannabis intake. It’s a sign that your body has developed a dependence on THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in cannabis.

Although not everyone experiences withdrawal, the symptoms are very real and can vary from person to person depending on factors like usage frequency, dosage, individual biology, and overall mental health.

 

Why Does Weed Withdrawal Happen?

The human body develops a tolerance to THC over time. This means that to feel the same effects, users need more cannabis. When the substance is no longer present in the system, the body struggles to maintain balance, leading to weed withdrawal symptoms.

THC affects the endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood, appetite, sleep, and memory. When THC intake stops suddenly, this system is temporarily thrown off balance.

 

Common Weed Withdrawal Symptoms

Marijuana withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe. The most common symptoms include:

1. Irritability and Mood Swings

A person may feel unusually frustrated, agitated, or quick to anger. Mood swings are one of the most reported cannabis withdrawal symptoms.

2. Anxiety

People quitting weed often experience heightened anxiety or panic attacks, especially in the first week of withdrawal.

3. Insomnia

Sleep disturbances, including trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, are very common.

4. Decreased Appetite

Many users report a reduced desire to eat or nausea after quitting weed, especially those who used cannabis to stimulate hunger.

5. Depression

A temporary drop in dopamine levels can result in low energy and feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

6. Physical Discomfort

Headaches, chills, sweating, fever, or abdominal pain may occur in some cases, though they’re usually mild.

7. Cravings

An intense desire to use cannabis again can make quitting harder, especially during emotional or stressful moments.

 

Less Common But Notable Symptoms

While less frequent, some users may also report:

• Nightmares or vivid dreams
• Restlessness or muscle tension
• Cognitive fog or difficulty concentrating
• Dizziness or light-headedness

 

Timeline of Cannabis Withdrawal Symptoms

Quitting weed doesn’t produce the same intense or immediate withdrawal as harder substances, but symptoms follow a general timeline:

Day 1–3: Onset

Symptoms usually begin within the first 24 to 72 hours after stopping. Irritability, anxiety, and insomnia start to surface.

Day 4–7: Peak Symptoms

This is often the most difficult stage. Most symptoms are at their most intense during this period.

Day 8–14: Subsiding Symptoms

While cravings may continue, physical symptoms like headaches and fatigue begin to lessen.

Week 3–4: Recovery

Most symptoms fade, although occasional sleep disturbances or mood swings can linger.

 

How Long Does Weed Withdrawal Last?

For most users, weed withdrawal symptoms last around 1–2 weeks. However, some people may experience lingering psychological symptoms, like depression or cravings, for several weeks or months depending on their mental health history and how long they’ve been using cannabis.

 

Risk Factors That Influence Withdrawal Severity

Some individuals may experience more intense symptoms due to:

• Long-term heavy use
• Using high-THC cannabis products
• Underlying mental health conditions
• Lack of social support
• Poor sleep and dietary habits

 

How to Manage Cannabis Withdrawal Symptoms

Here are several strategies to help manage cannabis withdrawal symptoms and make quitting weed easier:

1. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Drink water and maintain a balanced diet to support physical recovery.

2. Create a Sleep Routine

Go to bed at the same time each night, limit screen time, and avoid caffeine in the evening to reduce insomnia.

3. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

These can help reduce anxiety, irritability, and mood swings.

4. Exercise Regularly

Physical activity releases endorphins, which can naturally elevate your mood and reduce stress.

5. Reach Out for Support

Talk to friends, family, or a therapist. Consider joining a support group, either in person or online.

6. Avoid Triggers

Stay away from environments or people that encourage cannabis use until you feel more stable.

7. Consider Supplements

Melatonin for sleep or magnesium for anxiety might help, but consult with a healthcare provider first.

 

When to Seek Professional Help

If marijuana withdrawal symptoms are severely impacting your daily life or if you experience intense depression, panic attacks, or suicidal thoughts, seek help from a healthcare professional immediately.

In some cases, structured rehab programs or outpatient counselling can provide the necessary support and medical guidance.

 

Is Cannabis Addiction Real?

Yes. While not as physically addictive as substances like heroin or alcohol, cannabis can still lead to Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD). According to studies, around 9–30% of cannabis users may develop a dependence. For those who start using in their teens, the risk is even higher.

 

Tips for Quitting Weed Successfully

If you’re ready to stop using cannabis, these steps can improve your chances of long-term success:

• Set a quit date and prepare for it by removing all cannabis products from your space.
• Identify your triggers and plan how to respond to them.
• Replace your routine with healthier habits, such as reading, yoga, or journaling.
• Track your progress to see how far you’ve come and keep yourself motivated.

 

Can CBD Help with Withdrawal?

Interestingly, some former cannabis users have found that using CBD (cannabidiol) products can ease withdrawal symptoms like anxiety or sleeplessness without the high associated with THC. CBD may offer a gentler transition for those trying to reduce their cannabis intake gradually.

Get Kush offers a wide selection of CBD oils, CBD tinctures, and CBD edibles designed to support wellness—browse our catalog to find something that works for you.

 

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone

Experiencing weed withdrawal symptoms is a real and often challenging process, but you’re not alone. Many people in Canada are choosing to cut back or stop their cannabis use for a variety of reasons—from health goals to personal growth.

Whether you’re taking a tolerance break, quitting for good, or just curious about what to expect, being informed is your first step. And if you need support along the way, Get Kush is here to provide quality cannabis alternatives, education, and wellness tools.

 

Shop Quality CBD and Wellness Products at Get Kush

Looking to ease your cannabis withdrawal naturally? Explore Get Kush’s premium selection of CBD products and low-THC alternatives to help manage marijuana withdrawal symptoms without compromising on quality.

Visit GetKush to support your wellness journey today.

 

REFERENCES:

Cleveland Clinic. (2024, October 4). Marijuana (Weed) Withdrawal. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/marijuana-weed-withdrawal 

Grinspoon, P., MD. (2020, May 26).  If cannabis becomes a problem: How to manage withdrawal. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/if-cannabis-becomes-a-problem-how-to-manage-withdrawal-2020052619922 

Holland, K., Medically reviewed by Dawson, F., MD. (2024, September 5). What to Expect from Marijuana Withdrawal. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/marijuana-withdrawal 

Written by Matta, N., LMSW, Edited by Generes W.M., Reviewed by Kelley, R., NREMT. (2025, April 17). Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline, and Treatment. Available at: https://americanaddictioncenters.org/withdrawal-timelines-treatments/weed-marijuana 

Dr. Leslie Lars Iversen, CBE FRS MAE