How to Stop Smoking Cannabis (Marijuana)?

Marijuana or Cannabis use is prevalent in the United States. According to the CDC, around 48.2 million Americans (18% of Americans) used it at least once in 2019. Despite its widespread use, marijuana is still classified as a Schedule I drug, meaning that it has a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use.

Cannabis is a popular drug that is often used recreationally. However, some people find that they develop a dependence on cannabis and have difficulty quitting. If you’re struggling to quit smoking cannabis, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success.

1. Figure Out Why You Want to Stop Smoking Cannabis

The first step to quitting anything is to figure out why you want to do it. What are your goals? Do you want to improve your health? Are you trying to save money? Are you trying to be more productive? Once you know why you want to quit, it will be easier to stay motivated and stick to your plan.

2. Set a Quit Date

Once you know why you want to quit, the next step is to set a quit date. This will give you something to work towards and help keep you on track. Choose a date that is realistic for you and make sure to tell your friends and family about your plan so they can support you.

3. Make a Plan

Now that you have a quit date set, it’s time to make a plan. This plan should include things like how you will avoid temptation, what you will do when you have cravings, and who you will reach out to for support. Having a solid plan in place will make it easier to stick to your goals.

4. Get Rid of All Your Cannabis

Once you have your plan in place, it’s time to get rid of all your cannabis. Get rid of any pipes, bongs, or other smoking materials you have in your house, office or car, and toss out any stash you have hidden away. The less temptation you have, the better.

5. Avoid “People, Places or Things” That Make You Want to Smoke Weed

Another key to quitting smoking cannabis is to avoid any “people, places, or things” that make you want to smoke weed. If you know that being around your friends who smoke weed makes you want to smoke, then avoid them. If you know that going to a certain bar makes you want to buy weed, then don’t go there. Identify any places, people, or things that trigger your urge to smoke cannabis and avoid them.

6. Keep Yourself Busy

Another way to avoid temptation is to keep yourself busy. When you have free time, try to fill it with activities that you enjoy. This can be anything from going for a walk to reading a book. Keeping yourself busy will help you stay away from weed and make it easier to stick to your plan.

7. Plan Sober Activities with Friends

Socializing with friends is often a trigger for smoking weed. If you’re trying to quit, it’s important to find sober activities that you can do with your friends. This could be anything from going to the movies to playing video games. Planning sober activities with your friends will help you stay away from temptation and stick to your plan.

8. Exercise daily

Exercising daily is a great way to improve your overall health and reduce your cravings for cannabis. Exercising releases endorphins, which can help improve your mood and make it easier to resist temptation. Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes each day.

9. Stay Positive

Quitting smoking cannabis can be tough, but it’s important to stay positive. Remember that you can do it and be proud of yourself for making the decision to quit. Reward yourself for every small accomplishment and don’t beat yourself up if you have a slip-up. Just get back on track and keep moving forward.

10. Set Goals

Another way to stay motivated is to set goals and rewards. For example, you could set a goal to go one week without smoking weed. If you reach your goal, you could reward yourself with a big dinner or a night out with friends. Having something to look forward to will help you stay on track.

11. Reach Out to Your Support Network

Quitting smoking cannabis can be difficult, so it’s important to reach out to your support network. Let your friends and family know that you’re trying to quit and ask them for their help. Additionally, there are many online and offline support groups available that can offer additional help and support.

12. Talk to a Professional

If you’re struggling to quit smoking cannabis on your own, it’s important to seek professional help. There are many treatment options available that can help you kick your habit for good. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional about your options and find a treatment plan that works for you.