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Marijuana Cravings

Cravings Can Be Particularly Intense During the Early Withdrawal Period

Cravings can be particularly intense during the early withdrawal period. What brings on a craving is entirely person- and context-dependent. Typically, cravings are more frequent in situations previously associated with marijuana or when withdrawal symptoms are especially severe. You may experience cravings at bedtime, while watching a movie, or when hanging out with certain friends, especially if those friends are high.

These scenarios may pop up more frequently during this first week of abstinence as you learn to adjust your routine. Beyond avoiding these situations altogether (which represents a different strategy we will touch on later), the best way to avoid relapse when a craving arises is to redirect your attention. In other words, keep yourself busy. Don’t let yourself sit and dwell on how much better you’d feel if you used again. You may get temporary relief, true, but if you’re on this journey, you have loftier goals.

So, what can you do to stay busy? Think of some activities you can pick up easily at home and others if you need a change of scenery. Maybe it’s reading, playing music, cooking, or exercising. Perhaps you can go on a walk or meet up with friends who support you. Whatever you choose to occupy yourself with, it will help you stay busy and stay clean.

The best way to avoid relapse when a craving arises is to redirect your attention. In other words, keep yourself busy.