Cannabis use, whether for recreational or therapeutic purposes, can occasionally result in an overwhelming or uncomfortable high.
For those who find themselves feeling too high, or ‘greening out,’ the experience can be anxiety-inducing. Fortunately, several techniques can help mitigate these intense effects.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through practical ways to cope with being too high, promoting safer and more enjoyable cannabis use.
The Physiology Behind the High
Before diving into the methods, it’s essential to understand why cannabis can sometimes make you feel too high.
The psychoactive component in cannabis, Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), interacts with your endocannabinoid system, a network of cell receptors that help regulate various bodily functions.
When THC binds to these receptors, it alters your mood, sensations, and perceptions—thus creating the high. However, too much THC can overstimulate these receptors, leading to an uncomfortable high.
Recognizing the Signs of Being Too High
The symptoms of being too high can vary depending on the individual but typically include heightened anxiety or paranoia, confusion, dizziness, rapid heart rate, and nausea.
Recognizing these signs can be the first step towards taking corrective action.
Tip #1: Stay Calm and Remember It’s Temporary
The first and foremost piece of advice is to stay calm. It’s important to remind yourself that the feelings of being too high are temporary and that no deaths have ever been reported from a cannabis overdose. This reassurance can help manage any panic or anxiety.
Tip #2: Find a Safe Space
If possible, move to a quiet and comfortable place where you can relax. A familiar environment can provide a sense of security and reduce feelings of paranoia.
Tip #3: Hydrate and Nourish
Drinking water can help counteract dry mouth, a common side effect of cannabis use. Moreover, staying hydrated can help your body process the cannabinoids more efficiently. Eating a light snack might also help, but avoid any food or drinks with caffeine, as they can amplify your high.
Tip #4: Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
Practicing deep, controlled breathing can help calm your racing heart and mind. Techniques such as yoga or meditation can also be effective in reducing anxiety and grounding your thoughts.
Tip #5: Black Pepper to the Rescue
Chewing on a couple of black peppercorns has been anecdotally reported to help combat the effects of THC. This effect might be due to the terpenes present in black pepper that can help bring down the anxiety triggered by THC.
Tip #6: CBD to Counteract THC
Cannabidiol (CBD), another cannabis compound, can potentially counteract some of the anxiety-inducing effects of THC. Therefore, using CBD-dominant strains or CBD oils can help if you’re feeling too high.
Tip #7: Rest and Recovery
Resting or even taking a nap can be one of the best ways to ride out an intense high. It allows your body to process the THC and could significantly reduce the period of discomfort.
Tip #8: Distract Yourself
Sometimes, distracting yourself can be a good strategy. Watching a movie, listening to calming music, or engaging in a light physical activity like walking can take your mind off the discomfort.
Prevention: The Best Cure
While the above techniques can help you sober up, prevention remains the best strategy.
Knowing your tolerance, starting with low doses, and slowly increasing your intake can significantly reduce your chances of getting too high.
Also, opting for strains with balanced THC and CBD content can also helpensure a more manageable and enjoyable cannabis experience.
Medical Assistance: When to Seek Help
While most cannabis overconsumption incidents can be handled at home, in some cases, medical help might be needed.
If symptoms such as chest pain, severe panic attacks, or hallucinations persist, seeking professional medical assistance is strongly recommended.
Although cannabis overdoses are never fatal, these symptoms might indicate other underlying health issues that need immediate attention.
Responsible Use: Key to Enjoyable Cannabis Experience
The rising acceptance and legalization of cannabis have led to a boom in its use, with an accompanying increase in instances of people experiencing uncomfortable highs.
However, responsible use is integral to enjoying the benefits of cannabis while avoiding its potential pitfalls.
By staying informed about the effects of cannabis and understanding your body’s reactions, you can ensure that your cannabis experiences remain enjoyable and safe.
Take Charge of Your High
Every person’s experience with cannabis is unique since everyone reacts differently to the plant.
When it comes to cannabis use, knowing how to handle a strong high gives consumers more control over the experience.
Although these strategies can be useful, they are not without their limitations, and different people will find certain approaches to be more helpful than others. The key point to keep in mind is that the uneasy sensation is just that—temporary.
Knowing what to do if you’ve used too much cannabis makes you a better informed cannabis user and helps build a more responsible and educated cannabis culture.
By gaining this understanding, cannabis can continue to bring people joy and comfort rather than anxiety, and its positive effects can be maximised.
Remember that your experience with cannabis is unique to you. Making sure your cannabis experiences are safe and enjoyable requires knowing your tolerance level, how to handle an uncomfortable high, and when to seek help.
