Weed Withdrawal Symptoms: How to Cope and What to Expect

Thinking about quitting weed? You’re not alone. Many people across Canada are taking a break or stopping altogether—for health, personal, or legal reasons. If you’ve been using cannabis regularly, especially daily, you may experience some weed withdrawal symptoms when you quit.

This guide from Daily Edibles, your Vancouver-based weed delivery service, will help you understand what to expect and how to cope with withdrawal symptoms of weed. We’ll break things down simply, so you know how to take care of yourself during the process.

 

What Is Weed Withdrawal?

Weed withdrawal happens when someone who has been using cannabis often suddenly stops. Your body and brain get used to THC—the active part of weed that gives you a high. When you stop using it, your body needs time to adjust.

While not as intense as withdrawal from drugs like opioids or alcohol, quitting weed can still cause uncomfortable changes. These symptoms are part of what doctors call Cannabis Withdrawal Syndrome (CWS).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms usually begin within the first week after stopping cannabis use and last for about 1 to 2 weeks, though in some people, they may last longer [CDC, 2022].

 

What Causes Weed Withdrawal Symptoms?

THC affects a system in your body called the endocannabinoid system. This system helps control mood, appetite, sleep, and memory. When you use weed a lot, your body slows down its natural production of endocannabinoids.

Once you stop using cannabis, your body needs time to start working normally again without THC. This adjustment is what causes weed withdrawal symptoms.

 

Common Weed Withdrawal Symptoms

Everyone is different. Some people barely notice any symptoms. Others find quitting weed harder than they expected.

Here are the most common withdrawal symptoms of weed:

• Irritability
  You may feel easily annoyed, frustrated, or even angry. 
• Anxiety
  Some people feel nervous or unsettled, especially in the first few days. 
• Depressed mood
  You might feel down or have low motivation. 
• Trouble sleeping
  Many people report vivid dreams, insomnia, or restlessness. 
• Loss of appetite
  It’s normal to feel less hungry after quitting weed. 
• Headaches
  Mild to moderate headaches may happen early on. 
• Sweating or chills
  You might notice changes in body temperature or night sweats. 
• Stomach problems
  Nausea, cramps, or upset stomach can occur in some cases. 
• Cravings
  You may really want to use weed again, especially in situations where you used to smoke. 

These symptoms usually peak within the first 3 to 7 days after quitting and slowly go away over time.

 

How Long Does Weed Withdrawal Last?

Most symptoms begin within the first 24 to 72 hours after your last use. They usually last between 1 to 2 weeks, though cravings and mood changes may continue for a few weeks longer for some people.

Here’s a quick timeline of what you might expect:

• Days 1–3: Anxiety, cravings, sleep problems, and irritability may begin. 
• Days 4–7: Symptoms peak. This is usually the hardest stretch. 
• Week 2: Symptoms start to fade. Sleep may still be off, but appetite begins to return. 
• Week 3+: Most people feel better, though some mood symptoms or cravings may linger. 

 

Who Is More Likely to Experience Withdrawal?

Not everyone will feel withdrawal symptoms. But you’re more likely to experience them if:

• You use daily or almost daily 
• You’ve used weed for a long time 
• You use high-THC products (like cannabis concentrates or potent weed edibles) 
• You’ve tried to quit weed before and had withdrawal 

Some people may also be dealing with weed addiction, which can make quitting more difficult. Cannabis addiction is real, and it’s okay to ask for help.

 

Is Weed Addiction Real?

Yes. While many people believe weed isn’t addictive, research shows that about 1 in 10 users will develop a cannabis use disorder. That number goes up to 1 in 6 for those who start using in their teens [National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2021].

Weed addiction means you keep using cannabis even when it’s causing problems in your life, and you feel like you can’t stop—even if you want to.

 

How to Quit Weed Without Feeling Overwhelmed

If you’re thinking about how to quit weed, here are some simple steps you can take:

1. Set a Quit Date

Pick a day and stick to it. Mark it on your calendar and plan ahead.

2. Tell Someone

Let a friend or family member know. Support matters.

3. Remove Triggers

Clear out your stash, lighters, and anything else that reminds you of smoking.

4. Prepare for Cravings

Have a plan. Go for a walk, chew gum, or keep your hands busy.

5. Get Rest and Eat Well

Sleep and nutrition help your body recover.

6. Try Relaxation Techniques

Breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation can reduce stress and cravings.

7. Keep Track of Progress

Write down how you feel each day. Notice the improvements.

 

Helpful Tools for Coping with Withdrawal

Here are some tools and habits that can make quitting easier:

• Exercise: Boosts your mood and reduces stress. 
• Sleep routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. 
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re sweating more. 
• Healthy snacks: Helps manage appetite changes. 
• Support groups: Online or in-person, these help you feel less alone. 
• Therapy: Talking to a counselor who understands addiction can be a big help. 

 

When to Seek Help for Weed Withdrawal

If your symptoms are making it hard to work, go to school, or take care of yourself, it’s okay to ask for help. Signs that you may need extra support include:

• Feeling extremely anxious or depressed 
• Having strong cravings or relapse 
• Using other substances to cope 
• Having trouble quitting after several tries 

You can talk to your doctor, a mental health professional, or contact addiction services in your area.

In British Columbia, you can reach out to:

• HealthLink BC: Call 8-1-1 for health advice 
• BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services: www.bcmhsus.ca 

 

Can You Quit Weed Cold Turkey?

Yes, many people quit cold turkey and are successful. But it’s also okay to reduce use slowly if that feels easier for you. Some prefer to cut back over a few weeks before fully stopping.

What matters most is finding a method that works for you.

 

Coping with Cravings

Cravings are one of the hardest parts of quitting. They usually last 10 to 15 minutes, so if you can wait them out, they’ll pass.

Here are some ways to manage cravings:

• Change your scenery: Step outside or go for a walk. 
• Distract yourself: Listen to music, call a friend, or do a puzzle. 
• Remind yourself why: Think about the reasons you want to quit. 
• Use your hands: Try stress balls, doodling, or a fidget toy. 
• Delay: Tell yourself, “I’ll wait 10 minutes”—and most of the time, the craving fades. 

 

What Happens to Your Body After You Quit Weed?

Your body starts healing quickly once you stop using weed. Here’s what you might notice over time:

• Better sleep after the first couple of weeks 
• Clearer thinking and improved memory 
• More energy 
• Improved lung health if you used to smoke 
• More motivation and emotional balance 

Even if the first week is hard, the benefits of quitting often come sooner than you think.

 

Final Thoughts

Quitting weed is a personal journey. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about making progress. If you’re experiencing weed withdrawal symptoms, know that you’re not broken or weak. Your body is just adjusting.

At Daily Edibles, we understand that people use cannabis for different reasons, and sometimes stepping away is part of a healthier routine. If you’re planning to take a break or quit completely, use the tips in this guide to help you feel more in control.

Remember: support is out there, and healing is possible. Whether you’re cutting back or quitting for good, you’re not alone.

 

Need more resources or just browsing cannabis content in Vancouver? Check out our articles and explore cannabis education at Daily Edibles.

 

REFERENCES:

BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services. (nd). Available at: www.bcmhsus.ca 

Cleveland Clinic. (2024, October 4). Marijuana (Weed) Withdrawal. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/marijuana-weed-withdrawal 

Grinspoon, P., MD. (2020, May 26).  If cannabis becomes a problem: How to manage withdrawal. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/if-cannabis-becomes-a-problem-how-to-manage-withdrawal-2020052619922 

Keri W. Medically Reviewed by Poonam S. (2023, October 12). Marijuana Addiction and Abuse. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/ss/slideshow-marijuana-abuse-addiction