Hello! Thank you for reaching out. Congratulations on taking the first step towards quitting marijuana addiction. Marijuana is a psychoactive drug that, as you might have experienced, causes a feeling of pleasure and ‘high’ known due to the release of dopamine. While it can cause immediate relaxation and pleasure- it also has long term effects on your body due to long term use. As you have mentioned- it has been 7 years of marijuana exposure. These can have effects on your health- both physically and mentally. While it can be very difficult for you to quit this addiction due to its long exposure of 7 years, it is certainly possible. Before you figure out ‘HOW’ to quit, it is more important to have a concrete ‘WHY’. When you have a firm decision of quitting, make sure you write down why you want to quit marijuana. Have it accessible to you on most times where you can see it. This serves as your anchor to stay committed to the process even when you might want to go back to it. We are aware that you are worried about the withdrawal symptoms that might arise. It is common that this would happen, as your body is used to an experience and it might crave to maintain its normal. However, it is possible that you are able to manage your withdrawal symptoms with an experienced counsellor who specialises in de-addiction. Therapy can be a safe space to explore and manage these. Dealing with the triggers that come along with it can be difficult. Thus, having alternative plans can be helpful. Talking to someone you trust during this time can be incredibly supportive- as they would be able to help you to maintain and regulate your emotions. Picking up alternative activities like kick-boxing, weights, meditation and others can be helpful. We would highly recommend you to approach a professional counsellor/mental health practitioner (preferably someone with CBT specialisation) who would be able to guide you through in a safe and non-judgemental manner. It is perfectly okay to seek out professional help from mental health practitioners from organisations or independent set ups. Credits: Parul Pushkarna, Intern at Heart It Out

Many people feel that marijuana is not addictive, but it actually is. A study conducted in New Zealand concluded that Marijuana consumption can lower your IQ and affect your cognitive functions, like thinking, reasoning, memory, etc. On top of that, marijuana stays in your system (brain and fat cells) for about 6 months. In most cases, marijuana addiction doesn't have severe withdrawal symptoms, so you don't need constant monitoring and hospitalization. However, we do need to identify your triggers, create a schedule, and plan many things before you overcome this issue. I invite you to join a counselling session with me so we can explore this issue together.

Hi, if you have the determination to quit you don’t have to feel afraid. To help beat Marijuana addiction consult a psychologist and counseling sessions will help you. I understand you are afraid of withdrawal symptoms. Do not worry counseling sessions will help you.

Consult a psychiatrist and clinical psychologist. Take help from drug anonymous group.

Hello, Glad to know that you are seeking help and are motivated to quit Marijuana.Consult a Psychiatrist who will start detoxification by which your withdrawal symptoms can also be taken care off.Book an appointment with clinical psychologist for Motivation Enhancement Therapy.