What symptoms does cannabis withdrawal cause?

Anyone who uses cannabis regularly and stops may notice withdrawal symptoms. According to drugcom, they are unpleasant but usually pose no serious threat to health. They can make quitting more difficult. This guide describes the typical symptoms, shows how to classify them and names the warning signs you should not wait on.

Which symptoms typically occur?

drugcom lists these common withdrawal symptoms after stopping. Several can occur at the same time, and how strongly they show varies greatly from person to person.

• Nervousness and restlessness
• Sleep problems and confused dreams
• Reduced appetite
• Aggression
• Depression and anxiety
• Muscle tremors, sweating and raised temperature
• Diarrhoea, stomach problems, nausea and vomiting
• Headaches
• A strong urge to use cannabis again

According to drugcom, the strong urge to use cannabis again is linked to psychological dependence, which can be very persistent. It is often called craving.

Why do complaints vary?

drugcom describes that withdrawal symptoms occur particularly in people who have used cannabis daily for a long time, and that they vary greatly from person to person. Not all people dependent on cannabis experience physical withdrawal symptoms. These differences say nothing about weakness.

How do withdrawal and dependence differ?

According to drugcom, withdrawal symptoms are signs of physical dependence, which is however much milder than in people dependent on opiates or alcohol. At the same time, they do not have to occur, because not all people dependent on cannabis experience physical withdrawal. According to drugcom, dependence usually consists of a bundle of features. More on this is in the article How do I recognise cannabis dependence?

According to cannabispraevention.de, roughly one in eight people who use cannabis become dependent. Anyone who experiences withdrawal symptoms should take their use seriously and seek counselling.

How can you ease the symptoms?

The sources used name no treatment that applies to everyone. In everyday life, a regular daily routine and conversations with trusted people can relieve the strain. A small study reported by drugcom (79 participants) found better brain performance in people wanting to quit who did sport than in those who did not. The study is small.

• Keep to a fixed sleep rhythm, even if sleep is difficult at first.
• Plan small activities that occupy and distract you.
• Avoid situations that trigger a strong urge, at least at first.
• Drink enough and eat regular meals.
• Talk to a trusted person about what you are going through.

The article on sleep problems during withdrawal sets out further concrete help.

When should you seek medical help?

Some complaints need professional support. These include persistent low mood, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations, severe confusion or self-harm. If you also take medication or other substances, discuss the situation with a doctor.

If you are unsure whether your complaints are still within the normal range, get an assessment. The practice or an addiction counselling centre can help you classify this. In case of acute danger, call the emergency number.

How does the craving show up in everyday life?

It helps to recognise situations with strong craving. Note when the craving is particularly strong and what happened shortly before. Over time, patterns emerge to which you can respond in a targeted way, for example with a walk or a conversation.

Which physical complaints are typical?

Physically, drugcom names muscle tremors, sweating, raised temperature, diarrhoea, stomach problems, nausea and vomiting, and headaches. The complaints are unpleasant but usually pose no serious threat to health. Drink enough, take breaks and rest when you are tired. If complaints clearly get worse, have yourself examined by a doctor.

What warning signs appear in mood?

Temporary low mood is not unusual during withdrawal. It is different if mood stays very low for a long time, if you withdraw, or if thoughts of despair and hopelessness appear. Such signs must be taken seriously and belong in medical hands.

Talk to a trusted person if you notice that the low mood does not let go of you. You do not have to carry this burden alone.

What you can do now

Note which symptoms you experience, how strong they are and when they occur. These notes help you and a counselling service or doctor understand the situation. The article on how long cannabis withdrawal lasts explains the typical course. If you want to stop at home, also read the article on withdrawal at home. The topic page Help and counselling lists further points of contact.