It’s bound to happen. You consume too much cannabis and start to feel off. Whether you didn’t eat enough that day or you were trying a new product and overdid it, it’s important to know a few ways to deal with being too high. In a perfect world everyone’s cannabis experience would go swimmingly. However, not sure if you’ve noticed…the world is not perfect, so it’s always good to have a proverbial life jacket. Generally people who over-consume cannabis experience the following effects:
- Nausea
- Paranoia
- Elevated heart rate
- Dizziness
Everyone’s experience will vary of course, and odds are you know your body well enough to know when you’ve overdone it. Here are some tips to keep in mind if you start to feel like you’ve consumed too much cannabis. It goes without saying that you should seek medical attention if you think things are particularly bad.
1. Take A Walk
Sometimes all you need is a bit of fresh air. Going for a walk around the block (or even just walking around your house) can help get your blood flowing and make you feel a bit better. If you do go for a walk though, make sure you stay within your immediate surroundings. Getting lost in the neighbourhood probably won’t help that paranoia or dizziness you’re experiencing!
2. Drink Water
Hydration is always important, but especially when you think you’ve consumed too much cannabis. Water is the best bet, but as long as it’s non-alcoholic and non-caffeinated, go ahead and drink whatever you have on hand. It not only helps you get some fluids in your system, it also helps you focus on the simple act of drinking something. Hydration also helps combat dry mouth, which is often associated with cannabis consumption.
3. Eat Some Snacks
The munchies aren’t necessarily a bad thing. Eating some light snacks can help you feel grounded when you’re experiencing a poor cannabis experience. Much like drinking something, it allows you to focus on something that isn’t too complicated.
4. Don’t Panic
Things can feel a little end-of-the-worldish when you’ve consumed too much cannabis. Don’t panic. Take some deep, intentional breaths and try to remain calm. The paranoia will likely try its hardest to make you freak out, but do what you can to avoid giving in. Change into some comfy clothes, find your favourite spot on the couch, and just relax. If you’ve inhaled the cannabis, the effects typically only last 2-3hours. If you’ve ingested it, they could last 4-6 hours. In some cases effects can last up to 24 hours, but that still means they’re temporary. Soon this will all be a story you tell your friends.
5. Have A Nap
Since you have a few hours to wait, napping isn’t a bad idea. Find a calm, quiet, and comfortable and see if you can catch a little shuteye. If you can’t fall asleep, then just rest quietly while focusing on your breathing. It’s a good way of riding it out if you want to escape your thoughts.
6. Distract Yourself
If you’re someone who doesn’t do well with quiet or being alone with your thoughts (who can blame you?) then try distracting yourself. Listen to your favourite music, watch a movie, binge-watch a TV show, read a book, whatever will keep your mind off the high you’re experiencing. Make sure whatever you choose is safe to do while being high, though. Cooking a meal using the stove and knives might be something to save for a later (more sober) time.
7. Keep A Journal
Once you’re starting to feel a little more normal, consider tracking your experience in a cannabis journal. Keep a note of what you consumed, how much of it, how it affected you, and how long the high lasted. This way you’ll know for next time and hopefully be able to avoid another unwanted experience.
8. Don’t Drive
This cannot be stated enough: do not drive after consuming cannabis. Not to get snacks, not to go see a friend, not to do anything. If you really feel you need to go somewhere while experiencing your high, call a ride-share service, a cab, or a friend. Driving high is never an option.
In the end, it all comes down to you as a person. Your cannabis experience will be unique, so make sure you do what feels right for YOU.
NOTE: Indiva does not offer medical advice. This information is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice. If you are experiencing adverse affects from cannabis, or feel as though you need medical intervention, seek immediate attention from a doctor. Always remember to start low and go slow when consuming cannabis.