As criminal defense lawyers we get asked a lot how to stop smoking marijuana. Usually someone has been arrested on drug charges and they need to pass a drug test, or maybe they are on probation, and they need a clean screen, because a dirty test (i.e., one that indicates marijuana usage) could send them to jail or prison.
It's not easy to stop smoking marijuana, particularly if you have been smoking for a long time. Although it’s challenging, it is certainly possible with determination (motivation is the key!) and support. Here are some steps and strategies our clients have used to quit smoking marijuana:
- Set a Quit Date: Choose a specific date to quit. This gives you a clear goal and a deadline to work towards. Do everything you can to abide by your quit date!
- Identify Your Triggers: Recognize the situations or emotions that trigger your pot use. This could be stress, boredom, or social situations. Once you identify these triggers, you can develop strategies to avoid or cope with them differently. Know your personal triggers!
- Get Support: Let your friends and family know about your decision to quit. They can offer emotional support and help you stay accountable. You might also consider joining a support group or seeking professional counseling. There are many helpful support opportunities.
- Distract Yourself: When you have cravings, distract yourself with activities you enjoy. This could be exercise, hobbies, or spending time with non-smoking friends.
- Dispose of Paraphernalia: Get rid of all cannabis-related items such as pipes, bongs, and rolling papers. This can make it more difficult to relapse. We’ve seen clients throw out their Zig-Zag rolling papers, bongs, pipes, roach clips, vape pens, grinders, and even lighters.
- Change Your Routine: If you associate certain daily routines with smoking, try to change them. Break the connection between habitual activities and marijuana use.
- Learn to Manage Cravings: Cravings will happen, but they are temporary. Practice relaxation techniques, deep breathing, or mindfulness to help manage these moments.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and improve your mood. We’ve seen clients take up walking, jogging, and weightlifting.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Focus on maintaining a healthy diet and getting enough sleep. A well-rested and well-nourished body is better equipped to handle the challenges of quitting.
- Seek Professional Help: If you find it extremely difficult to quit on your own, consider seeking help from a healthcare professional. They can provide counseling, medication, or other treatments to support your efforts.
- Avoid Triggers: Stay away from people, places, or situations that make it difficult to avoid marijuana use. If your social circle predominantly consists of marijuana users, consider finding new friends who support your decision to quit. We’ve seen clients stop going to their local bars and nightclubs to avoid being around people who smoke weed.
- Celebrate Milestones: Reward yourself for achieving milestones, whether it's a week, a month, or longer without using marijuana. This positive reinforcement can motivate you to continue your journey toward quitting. Clients have invited us to parties celebrating them giving up smoking weed.
- Be Patient: Quitting is a process, it’s not easy, and there may be setbacks along the way. Don't be too hard on yourself if you slip up; instead, learn from the experience and refocus on your goal.
It’s important to remember that quitting marijuana may result in withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, anxiety, and insomnia. These symptoms are only temporary and typically improve over time. If you find it particularly challenging, consider consulting a healthcare professional or addiction specialist experienced in quitting marijuana for personalized guidance and support.
When you need a truly experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer who handles all types of drug charges, call us immediately!