For many, cannabis is a relaxing, enjoyable way to unwind, alleviate pain, or even boost creativity. However, with the rise in cannabis consumption—whether recreational or medicinal—it’s not uncommon for someone to consume too much, leading to a heightened experience that may not feel all that enjoyable. If you find yourself too high on cannabis, it can be a bit unsettling, especially if you’re not used to the effects or if you’ve overestimated your tolerance.
In this blog, we’ll explore what happens when you get too high, how to manage the situation, and how to avoid overconsumption in the future.
What Does Being “Too High” on Cannabis Feel Like?
When you consume cannabis, particularly if it’s a strain with a high THC content, you may experience a range of effects. These include euphoria, altered thinking, heightened senses, relaxation, or increased appetite. However, sometimes, these effects can become overwhelming, leading to feelings of anxiety, dizziness, paranoia, nausea, or confusion. Other common signs of being “too high” might include:
- Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
- Dry mouth (cottonmouth)
- Red eyes
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Paranoia or anxiety
- Difficulty concentrating or feeling disoriented
- Nausea or vomiting
These symptoms can be particularly unsettling for those new to cannabis or those who’ve taken a larger dose than their body is accustomed to.
Steps to Take If You’re Too High
While being too high may feel uncomfortable, it’s important to remember that it’s not life-threatening. The effects of cannabis typically wear off within a few hours, but there are steps you can take to ease the experience and bring some comfort during the high.
1. Stay Calm
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, the first step is to try to stay calm. Remind yourself that the effects are temporary and that you are safe. Anxiety can worsen the feeling of being too high, so it’s important to avoid panicking. Deep breathing exercises, focusing on calming thoughts, and grounding yourself can help ease any feelings of unease.
2. Hydrate
Cannabis can lead to dry mouth (also known as “cottonmouth”), which can make you feel uncomfortable. Drinking water, herbal teas, or a non-caffeinated drink can help rehydrate you and alleviate the dryness. Just be sure to avoid alcohol, as it can amplify the effects of THC and increase dehydration.
3. Eat Something
If you’re feeling uncomfortably high, eating may help. Having a small snack, particularly one that’s rich in carbohydrates, can help absorb some of the cannabinoids and mitigate the intense effects. Try a healthy snack like crackers, a piece of fruit, or nuts to settle your stomach and distract you from the feelings of overconsumption.
4. Find a Comfortable, Quiet Space
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, find a quiet, comfortable space where you can relax. Dim the lights, sit back, and close your eyes if needed. If you’re with friends, let them know that you need some space. A calm environment can help reduce feelings of anxiety or paranoia, especially in social settings.
5. Try CBD
If you’ve consumed too much THC, CBD can be a helpful antidote. CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that can counteract the anxiety and paranoia sometimes caused by THC. If you have CBD oil, a tincture, or edibles on hand, it may help alleviate some of the uncomfortable effects of being too high. CBD helps balance the effects of THC and can calm the nervous system.
6. Take a Nap or Rest
If you’re feeling extremely high, resting or taking a short nap can help pass the time. Sleeping can give your body time to process the cannabinoids and allow the effects to wear off. If you can’t sleep, simply lying down and resting may help you feel more at ease.
7. Distract Yourself
Sometimes, distracting yourself from the high can help it feel more manageable. Try watching a funny TV show or listening to calming music. Doing something lighthearted and engaging can help shift your focus away from negative feelings.
8. Go for a Walk
If you feel physically able, stepping outside and getting some fresh air can help you feel grounded. A short walk in a quiet, calm place might help reduce feelings of anxiety or paranoia, especially if you’re in a space that feels safe and calming. However, if you’re feeling very disoriented, walking may not be the best choice until you feel more in control.
9. Use Peppercorns (A Common Remedy)
An old trick that many cannabis users swear by involves black peppercorns. If you’re feeling paranoid or anxious, chewing on a few whole peppercorns or sniffing them may help. Pepper contains a compound called beta-caryophyllene, which interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system and can mitigate some of the effects of THC, helping to calm your nerves.
How Long Will It Last?
The duration of being too high can vary depending on how much cannabis you consumed, the method of consumption (edibles tend to last longer than smoking or vaping), and your tolerance. Typically, the effects of smoking or vaping cannabis will last between 1 and 3 hours, while edibles can take up to 4 to 6 hours to fully wear off. However, it’s important to remember that the peak of the high tends to fade after the first couple of hours, and discomfort will eventually subside.
Tips to Avoid Overconsumption in the Future
If you’ve had a rough experience with being too high, you may want to adjust your consumption habits going forward. Here are some tips to avoid overconsumption:
- Start Low, Go Slow: If you’re new to cannabis or trying a new strain or product, always start with a small dose and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more. It’s easy to overdo it, especially with edibles, as the effects can take time to set in.
- Know Your Tolerance: Everyone has a different tolerance to cannabis, so understanding your own limits is key. Regular users may be able to tolerate higher doses, but if you’re not used to THC or haven’t consumed in a while, be conservative in your consumption.
- Avoid Mixing with Other Substances: Mixing cannabis with alcohol or other substances can increase the risk of feeling too high or uncomfortable. If you choose to consume cannabis, try to avoid combining it with other substances.
- Check THC Content: If you’re consuming cannabis products like edibles or concentrates, always check the THC content. Many products, particularly edibles, can have high THC concentrations that might be stronger than expected. Start with a lower THC product to gauge how your body reacts.
- Use a Trusted Source: Whether you’re purchasing cannabis from a dispensary or from a friend, always ensure you’re getting your cannabis from a trusted source that clearly labels the potency and ingredients. This will help you avoid surprises.
Conclusion
While being too high on cannabis can be an uncomfortable experience, it’s important to remember that it’s temporary and there are ways to manage the situation. By staying calm, hydrating, eating something, and resting, you can ride out the effects and find relief. In the future, be sure to consume cannabis mindfully and in moderation to avoid the risk of overconsumption.
If you’re new to cannabis, always start with a small dose and gradually increase it as you become more familiar with its effects. With the right precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of cannabis without the discomfort of being too high.
