Weed Withdrawal Symptoms and Timeline

Understanding Weed Withdrawal

What Are Weed Withdrawal Symptoms?

Weed withdrawal symptoms are the physical and mental symptoms that can occur once someone who engages in regular marijuana use stops or reduces use. 

Marijuana (also known as weed or cannabis) withdrawal is typically not life-threatening, but it’s one of the major signs of cannabis use disorder (CUD).

Why Does Marijuana Withdrawal Happen?

Marijuana withdrawal happens when the brain and body become used to having THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) present, which is the psychoactive component of marijuana.

Stopping regular use of marijuana forces the body to readjust to the absence of THC, which can cause uncomfortable symptoms until detox is complete.

Common Weed Withdrawal Symptoms

What Are the Most Common Symptoms of Marijuana Withdrawal?

Some of the most common symptoms associated with weed withdrawal include anxiety, sleep problems, irritability, decreased appetite, and cravings.

What Physical Symptoms Occur During Weed Withdrawal?

Some physical symptoms that can occur during weed withdrawal include decreased appetite, shakiness (tremors), abdominal pain or stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and excessive sweating. 

Most commonly, those detoxing from marijuana will experience issues with lack of appetite or nausea, with other physical symptoms being less common.

Consistent heavy use can increase the likelihood of more severe symptoms, such as shakiness or abdominal pain, or weight loss, due to lack of appetite or nausea.

What Psychological Symptoms Occur During Cannabis Withdrawal?

Some psychological symptoms that can occur with weed withdrawal include mood swings, depression, anxiety, anger, irritability, aggression, insomnia, restlessness, and disturbing dreams and nightmares. 

Psychological symptoms are more typical with weed withdrawal, especially concerning symptoms of anxiety, irritability, and restlessness.

Long-term users may develop a psychological dependence on weed, and may become distressed and anxious when stopping use.

What Are the Side Effects of Quitting Weed?

Quitting weed suddenly after a period of heavy use can result in side effects such as withdrawal symptoms and cravings. 

Other side effects, such as weight loss and anxiety, can result from weed withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms typically begin within 24 to 48 hours after stopping weed use.

Why Do I Feel Sick After Quitting Weed?

Cannabis affects several parts of the body, including the digestive system, which can cause gastrointestinal discomfort when quitting.  

Cannabis contains cannabinoids that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). When a person stops using weed, it can throw this system out of balance and cause digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and lack of appetite.

Prolonged and heavy cannabis use has also been linked to gastrointestinal disorders. 

Weed Withdrawal Timeline

What Is the Typical Weed Withdrawal Timeline?

Exact timelines depend on the individual and their marijuana use, but a typical timeline is:

• 1-2 days: Onset of withdrawal symptoms
• 2-6 days: Symptoms peak in severity
• 2-3 weeks: Most acute symptoms resolve

Heavy users may experience persistent and/or more severe withdrawal symptoms compared to infrequent or low-dose users.

When Do Weed Withdrawal Symptoms Start?

Weed withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 24 to 48 hours after stopping use.

The most common symptoms to appear first are irritability, anxiety, reduced appetite, and sleep problems.

When Are Weed Withdrawal Symptoms the Worst?

Weed withdrawal symptoms are typically most severe between 2 and 6 days after stopping use. 

At this stage of withdrawal, symptoms can peak in intensity, with strong cravings and worsening mood and sleep disruptions. This is the stage where the risk of relapse is the highest.

How Long Does It Take to Feel Normal After Quitting Weed?

Most people tend to feel normal again in a few weeks after quitting weed.

Withdrawal symptoms begin to lessen and gradually improve after the first week of detox and continue to improve in the following weeks.

Can Weed Withdrawal Last for Weeks or Months?

Yes, in cases of heavy, prolonged weed use, some withdrawal symptoms can persist for weeks or even months. 

Sleep and mood symptoms, such as anxiety or cravings, can persist. This is especially the case if cannabis use masked or was used to mask underlying mental health disorders.

Severe and Less Common Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms

Can Weed Withdrawal Be Severe?

Yes, in rare cases, weed withdrawal can be severe in some individuals who are long-term heavy users of weed. 

Symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and depression can become pronounced and cause severe distress in a person’s life if left untreated.

Is Weed Withdrawal Dangerous or Life-Threatening?

Weed withdrawal is typically not dangerous or life-threatening.

However, in cases of polysubstance abuse (where weed is used along with other drugs, such as alcohol), withdrawal symptoms can become more dangerous. Always seek professional help before choosing to detox. 

What Is the Strange Syndrome From Smoking Weed?

Strange Syndrome, known as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), is a condition where long-time heavy cannabis users have repeated cycles of nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

These symptoms can become severe enough to require emergency medical care. There is no known cure for CHS other than ceasing cannabis use and complete detoxification.

What Is Scromiting?

Scromiting is a term that combines “screaming” and “vomiting” to describe one of the severe symptoms of CHS.

This includes intense episodes of painful vomiting severe enough to require emergency medical care.

Risk Factors for Marijuana Withdrawal

Who Is Most Likely to Experience Cannabis Withdrawal Symptoms?

Individuals with regular or dependent use of cannabis are more likely to experience withdrawal symptoms. 

One study found that 47% of the users with the above criteria will develop cannabis withdrawal syndrome.

Other factors that contribute to this likelihood of experiencing cannabis withdrawal symptoms are daily use of cannabis and/or concurrent tobacco or other substance use.

Does Frequency or Potency of THC Affect Withdrawal?

Yes, the potency of THC and frequency of use can significantly affect the severity of withdrawal symptoms. 

The higher the potency and the more frequent its use, the more intense withdrawal symptoms can be when a person quits using cannabis.

How Do Mental Health Conditions Affect Withdrawal?

Mental health conditions can affect withdrawal by exacerbating some symptoms and making the detox process more challenging. 

Conditions such as anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), mood disorders, and personality disorders can intensify withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, insomnia, and mood swings. This can increase feelings of distress or anxiety, which can contribute to the likelihood of relapse without professional assistance.

Does Additional Substance Use Impact Marijuana Withdrawal?

Additional substance use impacts marijuana withdrawal by intensifying symptoms and causing complications. 

Marijuana users with co-occurring substance use disorders, such as alcohol or other substances, are at risk for developing severe withdrawal symptoms or intensifying existing symptoms.

Some withdrawal symptoms can be serious enough to require emergency medical intervention. For this reason, polysubstance users should seek the help of medical professionals before choosing to stop their drug use.

Weed Withdrawal and Mental Health

How Does Weed Withdrawal Affect Mental Health?

Weed withdrawal can intensify mood swings and cause feelings of anxiety or irritability, which can make managing your mental health challenging. 

Individuals with existing mental health disorders may struggle to manage symptoms healthily during this period. This is especially challenging for those who have formed a psychological dependence on marijuana, and may feel like they cannot manage their mental health without it.

Can Quitting Marijuana Worsen Anxiety or Depression?

Yes, quitting marijuana can worsen anxiety and depression, especially in long-term marijuana users or those with co-occurring mental health conditions. 

The withdrawal process for marijuana can lead to heightened stress and the worsening of pre-existing mental health issues. However, in time, these symptoms can be managed with the help of a mental health care professional.

What Is Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD)?

Cannabis use disorder is a psychiatric condition characterized by a problematic pattern of cannabis use that causes significant impairment and distress in a person’s life. 

It is a mild to severe addiction recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Many heavy and long-term cannabis users may struggle with CUD, which requires professional treatment to address.

Coping With Weed Withdrawal Symptoms

How Can You Manage Weed Withdrawal Symptoms at Home?

Mild to moderate weed withdrawal symptoms can be managed at home by:

• Eating smaller, more frequent, and stomach-friendly healthy meals 
• Staying hydrated
• Establishing a regular sleep routine 
• Gentle exercise 
• Utilizing relaxation techniques
• Engaging in hobbies
• Avoiding triggers 

A healthcare professional can give you specific tips to manage withdrawal symptoms at home based on your individual needs and symptoms.

Those with underlying physical or mental health issues and/or who engage in polysubstance use should always seek professional detoxification services.

What Coping Strategies Help With Cravings?

Some common coping strategies that can help with cravings include mindfulness exercises, utilizing healthy distractions, identifying triggers, and building a support system. 

Support groups and other mental health services for substance abuse can help you manage cravings with professional assistance and peer support. Engaging in hobbies and other enjoyable, healthy activities can also provide an outlet that helps lessen the intensity of cravings over time.

How Do You Deal With Sleep Disturbances After Quitting Weed?

Some ways to deal with sleep disturbances during weed withdrawal include:

• Establishing a regular sleep schedule
• Creating a calming pre-sleep ritual
• Avoiding screens and stimulants before bed 

Practicing sleep hygiene can also ease you back into normal sleep patterns. Sleep hygiene involves creating an environment and habits that are more conducive to sleep. In some severe cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe medications as needed.

Treatment Options for Marijuana Withdrawal

When Should You Seek Professional Help for Weed Withdrawal?

You should seek professional help for weed withdrawal if you experience severe withdrawal symptoms that impair your daily life, such as anxiety, insomnia, mood swings, or aggression.

If you also find it difficult to stop using weed despite wanting to, that can indicate the presence of cannabis use disorder. Overcoming this disorder requires professional support.

What Treatment Programs Help With Marijuana Withdrawal?

Treatment programs designed to help with marijuana withdrawal vary depending on personal needs, but all include addiction treatment, therapy, counseling, and support.  

For people with mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms, outpatient programs such as an intensive outpatient program (IOP) can help promote long-term recovery.

An IOP offers specialized support to help you manage cravings and build support networks. This promotes long-term recovery by addressing the source of the substance abuse and establishing healthy coping skills.

Those struggling with severe withdrawal symptoms or who engage in polysubstance abuse may need the assistance of an inpatient treatment program, such as medically-monitored detoxification. Inpatient care provides a safe and comfortable detox experience.

After detox, individuals may transition into additional levels of care, such as residential or outpatient treatment programs.

Infinite Recovery provides a full continuum of care approach, which makes it easy for clients struggling with addiction and substance use disorders to receive the care they need for lasting recovery.

Can Therapy Help With Marijuana Addiction?

Yes, evidence-based therapy is highly effective in treating marijuana addiction.

Therapy is a tool that can be used to identify the sources of addiction, address them, and promote healing through the development of healthy coping skills.

Psychotherapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and contingency management (CM), are commonly used specifically in the treatment of addictions and co-occurring mental health disorders. 

Do You Need Detox for Weed Withdrawal?

Although most weed withdrawal symptoms typically don’t require medical care, it’s always recommended to check in with a healthcare provider when you want to quit weed. 

Having professional help can make the detox process safer and more comfortable.

Those with severe withdrawal symptoms, who engage in polysubstance use/abuse, and/or have a co-existing mental health condition should seek professional detox services. A healthcare provider or mental health professional can accurately guide you in the first steps to recovery.

Supporting a Loved One Through Weed Withdrawal

How Can You Help a Loved One Quit Marijuana?

You can help your loved one quit marijuana by creating a safe space for open and non-judgmental communication. 

Express your concerns to your loved one without blame and encourage them to seek professional help.

Infinite Recovery offers intervention services, which can help you find the resources and support you need to help your loved one begin their recovery journey.

What Signs Indicate They May Need Professional Treatment?

Some signs that your loved one may need professional treatment include:

• Using more marijuana than they intended
• Multiple unsuccessful attempts to stop or reduce marijuana use
• Spending excessive time on marijuana-related activities
• Lack of motivation
• Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, and/or home
• Legal troubles
• Withdrawing from loved ones

These are classic signs of drug abuse, which require professional assistance for recovery.

Weed is often thought of as a safe drug, especially with its legalization in parts of the United States. However, weed is still an addictive substance, and physical and psychological dependencies can develop from long-term and heavy use.

If you notice the above signs in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible.

FAQs About Weed Withdrawal

Is marijuana withdrawal recognized in the DSM-5?

Yes, marijuana withdrawal is recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as part of identifying cannabis use disorder and is referred to as cannabis withdrawal syndrome.

Heavy users will often experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using marijuana, which can help mental health professionals identify the presence of substance use disorder.

How is weed withdrawal different from other substance withdrawal?

Weed, compared to other substances, such as opioids or benzodiazepines, typically tends not to have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. 

Most withdrawal symptoms associated with weed include loss of appetite, gastrointestinal discomfort, and insomnia. These symptoms are uncomfortable, but can often be addressed in an outpatient setting.

However, other substances can have serious withdrawal symptoms, such as psychosis or seizures, that require inpatient detoxification services for comfort and safety. Mixing weed use with other substances, such as alcohol, can result in more dangerous and unpredictable withdrawal symptoms.

It’s always advised to seek professional assistance before stopping the use of any drug, as they can guide you in how to do so safely.

Can CBD help with weed withdrawal symptoms?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in weed that doesn’t contain THC, but still binds to the same cannabinoid receptors, and as such, may help with some weed withdrawal symptoms.

CBD helps reduce cravings and other withdrawal symptoms without producing the high associated with THC use. However, it’s important to be aware of the risks, such as medication interactions, when choosing to use CBD. Always consult a healthcare professional before using CBD as a withdrawal aid.

Infinite Recovery in Austin, Texas, offers comprehensive addiction treatment for a wide range of substances, including marijuana. Call now to learn about our personalized treatment plans and how to start you or a loved one on the path to recovery today.