Many proponents of marijuana describe it as a harmless, non-addictive drug that is needlessly prohibited by law in many states, but in fact, marijuana smoke contains more carcinogens than cigarette smoke, according to the American Lung Association. In addition, marijuana use may increase the risk of cancer of the mouth and throat, reports the Northeast Valley Division of General Practice. You should undertake a medical marijuana treatment plan only in consultation with your doctor, and if you're uncomfortable with your recreational marijuana use, take steps to quit.
Step 1
Outline your reasons to quit. The Northeast Valley Division of General Practice reports that in addition to the potential health risks of marijuana you may find some other drawbacks related to quality of life. You may notice that your circle of friends has dwindled to only marijuana smokers, that your marijuana use is negatively effecting your relationship with your partner, or that you feel mentally slow. You might also feel "paranoid" or notice problems with memory or focus. Finally, keep in mind that marijuana can be a costly habit, and is currently illegal in many states.
Step 2
Establish a "quit date" which you will honor. The Northeast Valley Division of General Practice recommends drawing up a contract with yourself, in which you will promise to quit on a given date. Set this date at least a week in the future, to give yourself time to psychologically prepare. When the quit date comes, don't think of it as a sacrifice, but as the beginning of a new, healthier life.
Step 3
Find new activities and interests. Because marijuana dependency is psychological, you will do yourself a big favor by making healthy lifestyle changes. Substitute marijuana smoking with something more physically vital, such as an exercise program, or attend a cultural event you might have avoided if you were still getting stoned. Open yourself up to new people, and steer clear of events that you once associated with smoking weed.
Step 4
Consider dropping your other cigarettes, too. If you smoke tobacco and marijuana, you might actually find it easier to quit both at once, according to a study from Johns Hopkins University cited on Eurekalert. The study, led by Ryan Vandrey, studied 12 heavy users of marijuana and tobacco. Vandrey and his colleagues found that while quitting marijuana caused similar irritability and insomnia as quitting tobacco, half of the study participants found it easier to quit both substances than to quit them individually.
Step 5
Have patience with yourself and wait for cravings to pass. It's likely you will have strong cravings accompanied by feelings of frustration and anger, reports the Northeast Valley Division of General Practice. Know that every craving passes eventually, but that you only prolong the problem when you give into the craving. Simply wait, divert yourself with a calming activity, and remind yourself of the rewards you'll reap by quitting.
Tips and Warnings
- Lean on a friend. The Northeast Valley Division of General Practice suggests finding a friend to confide in and ask for their support. Spend time around those who affirm your decision to make this change.
