Key Takeaways:
- Weed withdrawal symptoms can include irritability, anxiety, insomnia, headaches, and loss of appetite, typically starting within the first 1–2 days after quitting and lasting up to 2–3 weeks.
- The severity and duration of marijuana withdrawal depend on factors like how long and how often a person used cannabis, as well as THC concentration.
- What does marijuana withdrawal feel like? Many experience strong cravings, mood swings, and restlessness, but symptoms are rarely dangerous and tend to fade with time.
- Coping strategies—such as regular exercise, journaling, structured sleep, and avoiding caffeine—can help manage discomfort and reduce relapse risk.
- Clinical support may be needed for those with co-occurring conditions or other substance dependencies, ensuring a safe and more comfortable withdrawal process.
Cannabis refers to the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds of the marijuana plant. There are many chemical compounds (cannabinoids) in cannabis, but the one most people are aware of is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); this is the compound that has mind-altering and intoxicating effects.
While many believe marijuana isn’t addictive, the reality is more complex. Some people can use it casually, but others develop cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and signs of dependency.
Marijuana addiction is real for some users, especially with frequent or long-term use. Like any substance, it carries a potential for abuse, and stopping suddenly can lead to withdrawal effects like irritability, anxiety, and sleep issues.
Short-Term Effects of Marijuana (Weed)
The short-term effects of weed can include:
- Relaxation and euphoria
- Altered perception of time and space
- Increased appetite
- Anxiety, paranoia, or hallucinations (in high doses)
- Impaired coordination and motor skills.
Marijuana can be smoked for fast effects or consumed as edibles, which take longer to kick in due to digestion. While several states have legalized recreational marijuana, it remains illegal at the federal level.
Though often seen as harmless, marijuana does have the potential for abuse and addiction. Some users experience cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and develop a dependency, especially with frequent use. It can also worsen underlying mental health or substance abuse issues, particularly in vulnerable individuals.
Symptoms of Marijuana Dependency
The younger you start smoking or using cannabis, the more likely it is that you’ll become dependent, especially if you start before the age of 18. One in ten users will develop a dependency; for daily users, it’s one in four. Those numbers are even higher for those who start really young. Here are some of the symptoms to be on the lookout for if you’re concerned about the well-being of yourself or a family member:
- Trouble concentrating and memory issues.
- Loss of motivation.
- Relationship problems.
- Mood swings or feeling emotionally flat.
- Dropping performance in work or school.
- Increased tolerance.
If you or a loved one is struggling with cannabis use disorder, and you feel like you need some help, it’s ok. There are resources and programs available to assist you, and you do not have to go through this alone.
Cannabis Withdrawal Symptoms
If you’ve tried quitting marijuana but keep going back—especially after experiencing withdrawal symptoms—it might be time to seek help or support.
Common symptoms of cannabis withdrawal syndrome include:
Physical symptoms:
- headaches
- fatigue
- sweating
- chills
- loss of appetite/stomach pain
Psychological symptoms:
- irritability
- anxiety
- depressed mood
- sleep disturbances/insomnia
- strong cravings
Marijuana can impact both mental health and increase the risk of substance abuse. You’re not alone, and there are treatment options available.
How Long Does Marijuana Withdrawal Last?
These symptoms aren’t life-threatening, but they can be really uncomfortable and sometimes scary. This is one of the most common reasons that people go back to using their drug of choice over and over again, despite their firm determination not to do so. Withdrawal can be uncomfortable; it feels unbearable.
The severity and duration of cannabis withdrawal symptoms depend on how much and how long the user was consuming, and they still vary. Some symptoms can last up to 2 weeks, and for those who used marijuana consistently for a long time, the effects can last up to 3 weeks.
Clinical Management of Marijuana Withdrawal
Rarely does marijuana withdrawal require hospitalization or medical care on its own, but there are some situations where medical treatment may be necessary.
People are at a higher risk of experiencing marijuana withdrawal symptoms if:
- They used marijuana daily for a prolonged period of time.
- Used higher concentrations of THC, such as “dabbing”.
- Use both tobacco and marijuana.
- Have other substance use disorders.
If the person has other dependencies, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines, detoxification would be highly recommended. These two drugs can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures, hallucinations, and even death.
If someone has other health conditions that cannabis withdrawal symptoms may exacerbate, such as high blood pressure, depression, mood disorders, or an anxiety disorder, medical supervision may be the best course of action. Withdrawal symptoms from any type of drug may heighten or exaggerate the symptoms of pre-existing conditions.
How to Cope with Marijuana Withdrawal
If you’re safe, not in medical danger, and actively working to quit marijuana—congratulations. That’s a big step, and it’s not easy. As you move forward, you may need to build healthier coping tools, and that’s part of the journey.
You’re on your way to a healthier lifestyle—clearer thinking, better sleep, stronger relationships, and so many other benefits. Stay focused, and keep going. You’ve got this. It’s not easy, and there will be tough hours, days, and even weeks. That’s completely normal.
Here are some helpful tools to get you through those challenging moments as you move through the next few weeks:
Sleep problems
- Go to bed at the same time every night, and get up at the same time each morning.
- Have a calming nighttime routine—soothing tea, light yoga, turn the TV off early, take a warm bath.
- Avoid your phone for an hour or 2 before bed; the blue light keeps your brain active.
- Be active during the day. Even a short walk in the afternoon will boost your mood and help with stress and anxiety.
Anxiety and Restlessness
- Get a journal; writing down your worries and thoughts can really help.
- Avoid caffeine; if you must keep it down to a minimum and don’t drink it past late morning.
- Move your body. Walking, swimming, and yoga are really relaxing and help you remember to breathe through the tough moments.
Irritability and anger
- Cut down on stress as best you can. Keep things simple.
- Pick up old hobbies, like playing music or doing things with your friends
- Find a support group
Reclaim Your Freedom From Marijuana Dependence Today
Quitting weed, or any substance, is not an easy thing to do. It takes courage and determination. If you or a family member is struggling, New Leaf Detox and Treatment is here to help. We offer inpatient and outpatient treatment programs, as well as assistance for other mental health conditions. You can reach us here–We are standing by, and always available to help.
