The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that marijuana is the most commonly abused drug in the United States, with more than 14 million people age 12 and older having tried the drug at least once. Although the perception of many is that marijuana is a natural drug, the consequences of prolonged use range from mild impairment to serious medical and mental health disorders. Helping someone to stop smoking weed is often a difficult process that begins with open communication about your concerns.
Step 1
Talk and express your feelings about marijuana use. Honest and open communication with your loved one facilitates dialogue about your concerns as well as her thoughts on using the drug. Ask questions, and provide feedback to engage in ongoing discussions.
Step 2
Provide alternative options for relaxation. Many people say they enjoy smoking weed because it relaxes them. Offer your loved one other means for achieving relaxation such as going for a walk or joining a yoga class.
Step 3
Normalize the occurrence of stress in daily life. Let your loved one know you understand that the stress of daily life can be tedious and that using marijuana is their means of coping. Brown University recommends offering solutions for coping with stress such as eliminating problems that are not in her direct control, regular exercise or problem-solving.
Step 4
Explore social activities that involve non-marijuana smokers. Many people who use marijuana enjoy the social connections that come with use. When considering pot cessation, the reality of social isolation becomes an issue, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Discuss ways to get social needs met with people who do not use the drug, and provide ideas for social activities.
Step 5
Encourage efforts toward stopping smoking. Abstinence from marijuana use might be difficult for your loved one. Encourage the small steps she takes toward quitting, and remain invested in her success.
Step 6
Provide options for support groups and drug counseling. If your loved one is ready to quit, she will need help. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers resources for help with recovery. Make a list of local options, and discuss this list with her when she is ready.
Tips and Warnings
- Help your loved one understand the long-term effects of marijuana use with reading materials about the drug. Explain that stopping marijuana use might cause irritability initially; however, this is short-lived after a few weeks (NIDA). Do not make it your responsibility to force abstinence. Leave it up to the smoker to make that choice.
- Explain that side effects of abstinence might include decreased appetite and sleeplessness for several days (NIDA).
Things You'll Need
- Support group resource list
- Local drug counselors
- Class listings for yoga and meditation
References
- Daily Strength: Marijuana Addiction and Recovery Group
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator
- National Institute on Drug Abuse: Marijuana
- Narconon International: Drug Rehabilitation
- Brown University Health Education: Talking to a Friend About Drinking and Drug Use
