8 Ways to Handle Getting Too High

Every cannabis user can tell you about that uncomfortable feeling when you realize you’re way too high. Maybe the effects of edibles hit you three hours later, or you tried to impress your friends with how much you could smoke. Maybe you tried a concentrate for the first time and weren’t ready for its strength, or you just have a low tolerance. There are countless reasons, but when it happens, the unpleasant sensations can turn off even the most dedicated fans of cannabis.

But don’t worry! Most people have experienced an uncomfortable high at least once. Fortunately, there are ways to deal with the discomfort from overconsuming cannabis.

How to Deal with a Strong High

1. Don’t Panic

Let’s start with the immortal wisdom from “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”: Don’t panic. You’re okay and everything will be fine. Most symptoms of “greening out” (overconsuming cannabis) will fade within minutes or hours and don’t have any lasting effects. Just wait it out and you’ll feel better soon.

Also, despite what you may have heard, there has never been a recorded death from a cannabis overdose. So, no matter how scared you feel, you’re not in any real danger from overdoing it (but don’t take this as a challenge—just remember it if you ever get too high).

2. Know Your Limits Before You Start

If possible, do everything you can to make sure your cannabis use matches your tolerance level. Use it with trusted friends, in a comfortable setting, and don’t feel pressured to consume more than you can handle. Meeting new people is great, but being around strangers can make you feel unsafe and add to anxiety.

Take your time, especially with edibles. For edibles, we recommend a standard dose of 10 mg (or even 5 mg if you want a very mild effect), and wait at least an hour or two before increasing your dose. The same goes for inhaled methods—if you’re used to just one hit from a vaporizer, don’t sit and smoke for an hour straight.

3. Stay Hydrated

Water, water, water—don’t forget to hydrate! Make sure you have a cool, non-caffeinated drink nearby (water or juice is best). This will help prevent dry mouth and give you something simple and familiar to focus on—sipping and swallowing.

Keep in mind that hydration does not mean alcohol. If the strain hit you a little too hard, avoid alcohol, as it can significantly increase THC levels in your blood.

4. Keep Some Black Pepper Nearby

If you’re feeling paranoid or anxious, there’s a simple kitchen remedy that can help—black pepper. This trick is used by many, including Neil Young! Just sniff or chew a couple of peppercorns, and you’ll feel relief almost instantly.

5. Stay Calm and Rest

Find a quiet, comfortable spot where you can relax and breathe deeply. Remember, the discomfort will pass. Take a few deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. Focus on the sound of your breathing and just rest for a bit.

Sleep is one of the best ways to recover from a strong high, but it’s not always easy to turn off your mind. Once you find a calm place, lie down and relax. If you start to feel sleepy, take a nap to recharge. If you can’t fall asleep, just rest until you feel ready to get up.

6. Try Going for a Walk

If you can’t quiet your mind, sometimes a change of scenery and some fresh air can help. Just don’t wander too far from home or your friends—no one wants you getting lost and anxious! And if you feel unsteady or foggy, skip the walk and stick with tip #5—just rest.

7. Take a Shower or Bath

This isn’t always possible if you’re not at home, but if you can, take a shower or bath to help you relax.

8. Distract Yourself!

Activities that seem fun or silly when you’re high are great ways to distract yourself and come back down to earth. Try:

• Watching a funny cartoon
• Listening to your favorite music album
• Playing a fun video game
• Talking with friends (who can help calm you down)
• Cuddling your pet
• Coloring (adult coloring books are becoming more popular as a relaxing activity)
• Enjoying some tasty food

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something familiar and enjoyable. Your mind will focus on the positive sensations, helping you feel comfortable and safe.

Bonus Tip: Try CBD

CBD is a compound that works great against anxiety, and many people use it to counteract the effects of THC.

If none of these tips help and you’re still feeling uncomfortable, you can always seek medical help and let the doctor or nurse know you’re having an anxiety attack from cannabis use. This is always an option, even if cannabis is illegal in your state. Medical professionals will do everything they can to help you recover, even if you need to be brought down from a strong high.

Hopefully, one of these recommendations will help you get through an overly strong high. And if nothing works, you can always follow Snoop Dogg’s advice and “faceplant in some mayonnaise.”