Anyone who has used cannabis regularly for a long time and then stops or uses considerably less may get withdrawal symptoms. Common ones are:
- nervousness and restlessness
- sleep problems and strange dreams
- little appetite
- irritability, anxiety, low mood
- physical complaints such as sweating, trembling or headaches
- stomach problems, nausea or diarrhoea
Several symptoms often occur at the same time.
The symptoms usually begin one to three days after last use and are strongest in the first week. Most subside after two to three weeks. Sleep problems and low mood can last longer.
Withdrawal symptoms can be very unpleasant, but as a rule they are not a serious risk to health. They are a sign that the body is readjusting. They also show that the body had got used to cannabis. If you want support when stopping, you can find it at counselling services and in the online programme Quit the Shit (in German).
Remember: The first week is the hardest. After that, it usually gets much easier.
More on this: Taking a break · How dependence develops