Many people use marijuana recreationally or medicinally without any problems. However, others may struggle with its effects, especially if they have a history of addiction or are in recovery.
If you suspect someone may be high from marijuana, understanding the signs and symptoms can help you assess the situation. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the physical, behavioral, and emotional cues to look out for.
Understanding Marijuana and Its Effects
Marijuana contains chemicals known as cannabinoids, the most well-known being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). It is responsible for the “high” feeling users experience. While some individuals use marijuana for its medicinal benefits, such as pain relief or stress reduction, the psychoactive effects of THC can alter:
- Perception
- Cognition
- Behavior
Marijuana can be consumed in various ways, including smoking, vaping, eating edibles, or using oils. The method of consumption can impact how quickly the effects set in and how long they last. For instance, smoking or vaping provides immediate effects, whereas edibles take longer to take effect but can be more potent.
Common Signs of Being High in Marijuana
Marijuana use can affect people in different ways, but there are certain signs that are commonly associated with being high. Understanding these signs can help you identify when someone is under the influence.
We’ve broken it down into categories to make it easier to recognize the physical, behavioral, and emotional indicators of marijuana use.
Physical Signs
- Bloodshot or red eyes due to expanded blood vessels
- Struggles with balance or coordination, like walking straight or holding objects
- Increased heart rate, making someone appear out of breath
- Dry mouth, often referred to as “cottonmouth,” leading to frequent drinking
- Slower or exaggerated facial expressions and movements
- Red or swollen eyes from THC irritation
- Difficulty focusing on tasks that require fine motor skills
- Increased appetite or the “munchies”
- Frequent yawning or a relaxed demeanor
Behavioral and Cognitive Signs
- Euphoria or extreme happiness, often leading to excessive laughter
- Slurred or slow speech, with disjointed sentences
- Memory lapses, forgetting what was just said or done
- Difficulty focusing or staying on topic in conversations
- Paranoia or anxiety, feeling overly worried or suspicious
- Sudden mood swings, shifting from happy to irritable
- Heightened sensory perception, like colors or sounds seeming more intense
- Reduced ability to make decisions or think clearly
- A tendency to zone out or appear distracted
- Heightened sensory perception
How the Environment or Situation May Influence Signs
Edibles vs Smoking
It’s important to note that the way marijuana is consumed can influence the intensity and onset of the high. When smoked or vaped, the effects of marijuana set in quickly, often within minutes.
However, with edibles, the effects may take up to an hour to appear and they can be stronger. This delayed onset may make it harder to tell if someone is high immediately after they consume an edible.
Setting or Social Context
A person’s environment can also play a role in how they react to marijuana. For example, someone might be more likely to show the effects of marijuana in a relaxed social setting but might attempt to hide their state in a professional or serious situation.
Tolerance Levels
Regular marijuana users may exhibit fewer obvious signs of intoxication compared to someone who uses it occasionally. Over time, a person’s body can develop a tolerance, so they may not show the same physical or cognitive signs of being high as someone who rarely uses marijuana.
When to Seek Help from Addiction Treatment Centers
If you or someone you know is struggling with marijuana use, it may be time to seek help from Premiere Addiction Recovery, an addiction treatment in Florida. Some signs that marijuana use is becoming problematic include:
- Overconsumption: In extreme cases, marijuana can cause disorientation, paranoia, or hallucinations. If someone is displaying signs of panic or confusion, they may need medical attention.
- Impact on Daily Life: If marijuana use is interfering with work, relationships, or personal responsibilities, it could be a sign of substance misuse.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: People who use marijuana frequently may experience withdrawal symptoms like irritability, insomnia, or decreased appetite if they try to quit.
Conclusion
Recognizing the signs that someone is high from marijuana can be crucial, especially for those in addiction recovery or individuals who are concerned about the health and well-being of a loved one. By understanding the common physical, behavioral, and emotional signs of marijuana use, you can better assess the situation and determine if additional help is needed.
If you or someone you care about is dealing with substance use issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for guidance and support.
