Anxiety and Cannabis Abuse

[Ronantian]

The last few years I have been in a viscous cycle where I use cannabis when I’m not in a bout of anxiety, i start over using and wind up back in a massive anxiety hole. I quit when I’m really anxious, but when I’m feeling better I convince myself it will be fine and start again. Then when I inevitably end up anxious I blame myself for being so stupid.

The last week has been really tough, back to constant worrying, not sleeping and feeling sick. The positive is that I really think that this time I can quit for good. Just wish I didn’t feel so terrible, and I just want to get back to the old me. I have a loving and supportive partner, but feel like I keep letting her down.

I’ve been off it for 5 days now (since I started feeling anxious) and I really want this thread to be a reminder of how bad it makes me feel, and hopefully a record of when I finally had the strength to quit.

Any advice or support welcome, and thanks for listening.

[Catkins]

You could maybe switch to CBD oil?

When I was a lot younger, I used to smoke a bit but to be honest it just made my anxiety worse. I used to get the most horrendous whiteys (not sure what the modern name for them is), I even convinced myself one time that I needed to be hospitalised because I felt so terrible and that I needed to confess all to my mum immediately. Also had to lie on the ground outside a pub once because I couldn't go in.

Long term it has been much better for me to avoid any kind of recreational drug.

[Ronantian]

Thanks Catkins, I’ve tried CBD oil before, but not sure it did much for me. I’ve had my fair share of whiteys too. My problem is that I always end up using everyday and then my anxiety spirals. Think it’s finally time that I accept that it’s an addiction and just cut it out of my life. Don’t do any other drugs, not even alcohol.

I’ve made an appointment with a counsellor for next week and think I’m finally heading in the right direction.

[Catkins]

That sounds really positive! Well done you!

[Ronantian]

Threw out the rest of my weed. It might be symbolic, but it made me feel like I’m taking back control.

[Ronantian]

Struggling this morning. Felt pretty good last night, have been signed off work too, but this morning has been hard. So shaky and feeling pathetic.

[Catkins]

I always find mornings the worst anxiety wise. Hang on in there, you're not pathetic, you're just going through a tough time right now.

[Ronantian]

Thanks, I have opened up to friends and admitted to my addiction. It doesn’t feel like a secret anymore which is a good thing.

[Catkins]

It really is a good thing. They also might ne able to support you a bit too.

[Ronantian]

Off it two weeks, feeling a bit better but still have anxious times. Counselling is helping too.