These days cannabis has become so mainstream that we're all aware of the touted benefits and relative ease of sourcing it, whether you want gummies, vape pens, or topical creams. Maybe you've been part of the green wave, and have recently found yourself questioning if it's time to step back or quit altogether. If so, you're not alone, and you're in the right place. We're here to help you with specific steps you can take to stop smoking cannabis for good.

Ready to take the next step in quitting cannabis? Click here for a guided hypnotherapy session that can help.

1. Recognise the 'Why'

Before throwing yourself headfirst into quitting, it's important to get a handle on why you want to stop. Are you noticing that it's affecting your work performance? Maybe it's causing tension in your relationships, or you've realised you're not feeling as sharp as you used to be. Identifying your "why" is crucial because it serves as your guiding star when the journey gets tough. Be specific and concrete about your reasons; vague ideas won't provide the motivation you need.

What Doesn't Work: Simply telling yourself, "I should quit," without a clear reason usually leads to a lack of commitment and can easily result in relapse. This holds true for anything you want to achieve, especially when physical or mental addiction is part of the picture. Getting crystal clear about what this habit is costing you will help you remember why you’re taking these steps when you’re tempted to give in to the impulse.

2. Set Realistic Goals

You might be tempted to quit all at once - a method known as 'cold turkey.' While this abrupt approach works for some, it can also trigger withdrawal symptoms like irritability and insomnia. Instead, try setting achievable milestones. Reduce the amount you smoke gradually, making it easier for you and your body to adjust to the change.

What Doesn't Work: Setting unrealistic goals can lead to disappointment, and eventually, giving up on quitting altogether. Some progress is always better than none.

3. Get Support

Don't underestimate the power of a good support system. Talk openly with close friends and family about your decision to quit. Surrounding yourself with positive influences can provide the extra nudge you need when faced with temptation. It might be an obvious thing to say, but it also helps if you can reduce your interactions with people who you associate with your habit. Unless they are also trying to quit they will likely make it much harder for you to stick to your intention.

What Doesn't Work: Going it alone or keeping your decision a secret usually means you have less accountability and could lead to slipping back into old habits.

4. Find Alternatives

Lighting up when you're bored or stressed? Time to find a different outlet. Engage in physical activity to release endorphins or take up a new hobby to keep your mind engaged. Have you considered a hypnotherapy session focused on cannabis control from Clear Minds? Check it out here.

What Doesn't Work: Simply ignoring triggers or cravings usually doesn't help. They'll just find a way to resurface.

5. Remove Temptations

It's simple: if it's not there, you can't smoke it. Throw away or give away your stash, paraphernalia, or anything that reminds you of smoking. Make your living space a cannabis-free zone.

What Doesn't Work: Keeping "just a little" for emergencies typically ends in relapse.

6. Consult a Professional

If you're finding it hard to quit despite your best efforts, seek professional advice. Medical experts can offer prescription treatments that could help alleviate withdrawal symptoms, and therapists can provide coping strategies.

What Doesn't Work: Assuming you don't need help or that you can "power through" withdrawal symptoms on your own can make the process more challenging.

7. Celebrate the Small Wins

Every day, hour, or even minute you go without smoking is a win. Acknowledge these victories, no matter how minor they seem. This builds confidence and gets you closer to your goal. You could try keeping a tracker diary or using an app to chart your progress, then make sure you notice and celebrate the milestones. I have several friends who post their AA chips on Facebook and it’s lovely to be able to acknowledge their progress with them.

 

What Doesn't Work: Discounting small achievements as unimportant can lead to low morale and decreased motivation.

Conclusion

Quitting cannabis might seem difficult or not worth the trouble, but with the right tools and mindset it's achievable and very much worth it. Remember, you don't have to go it alone; there are resources and people out there ready to support you. For some guided help, don't forget that the Clear Minds cannabis control session is always a click away. Find it right here.