5 Tips for Staying Sober
You’ve done the work to become clean and sober, and you want to do what you can to stay that way. Here are five great tips that will help you safeguard your freedom from a substance use disorder.
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Imagine if a friend of yours broke a bone—you’d likely encourage them to seek medical care, right? Now, if that same friend is facing mental health challenges, would you still advise them to seek help? Unfortunately, many people hesitate to do so, often under the misconception that mental health struggles are less important than physical ones. However, it’s important to recognize that just because one condition is visible and the other is not, it does not mean one is any less significant. Mental health is just as critical as physical health, and the two are deeply
interconnected with each having an impact on the other.
Substance use is one area where the relationship between mental and physical health is particularly evident. Prolonged alcohol use can lead to significant damage to the frontal lobe, liver cirrhosis, and cognitive impairments. Similarly, heroin abuse increases the risk of infectious diseases, impairs the brain’s white matter (which is crucial for decision-making), and damages the liver. Cocaine use can disrupt the brain’s reward system, potentially lead to psychosis, and strain the heart. These are just a few examples, but they illustrate how recovery is not only an emotional or mental health matter; it is an essential aspect of overall healthcare.
At Northview Wellness, we believe recovery is an integral part of the healthcare journey. We take a holistic approach to recovery, treating not just symptoms, but the whole person. Our team of experienced counselors and medical professionals collaborate to provide personalized care that addresses both physical and mental health aspects of recovery. If you or someone you know is ready to make recovery a priority as part of their health journey, we’re here to support you. Reach out today to learn how we can help you achieve complete wellness.
What Causes Greening Out?
Greening out happens when too much THC overwhelms the body’s endocannabinoid system, leading to uncomfortable physical and psychological symptoms. While the effects vary from person to person, factors like THC potency, consumption method, personal tolerance, and overall health can influence how someone reacts. Smoking or vaping marijuana typically results in faster effects, while edibles take longer to kick in but often lead to stronger and longer-lasting highs.
Individuals with little experience using marijuana are more likely to green out because their bodies aren’t accustomed to THC’s effects. Additionally, consuming cannabis on an empty stomach, mixing it with alcohol or other substances, or using highly concentrated forms like dabs and oils can significantly increase the risk of greening out.
How Long Does Greening Out Last?
The duration of greening out depends on several factors, including the amount of THC consumed and how it was ingested. When marijuana is smoked or vaped, the effects typically peak within 30 minutes to an hour and wear off within a few hours. However, edibles can take much longer—sometimes up to two hours to fully kick in—and their effects may last anywhere from 6 to 12 hours.
For most people, symptoms of greening out will subside once THC levels in the bloodstream decrease. However, during this period, the discomfort can feel overwhelming, which is why it’s essential to stay calm, hydrated, and in a safe environment until the effects wear off.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a green out, here’s what can help:
- Find a calm environment – Move to a quiet, safe place to relax and avoid overstimulation.
- Hydrate – Drinking water or herbal tea can help ease nausea and prevent dehydration.
- Eat a light snack – Foods like crackers or fruit can help stabilize blood sugar and lessen discomfort.
- Take deep breaths – Focusing on slow, controlled breathing can help reduce anxiety and panic.
- Lie down and rest – Closing your eyes and resting can help minimize dizziness and nausea.
If symptoms persist, become severe, or include chest pain, extreme confusion, or loss of consciousness, seeking medical attention is recommended.
The Link Between Marijuana Use and Dependence
While many believe marijuana is harmless, frequent use can lead to dependency. Regular marijuana consumption, especially with high-THC products, can alter brain chemistry, making it difficult for users to quit or control their intake. Some may experience withdrawal symptoms like irritability, insomnia, cravings, and anxiety when they try to stop. Greening out may be a sign that marijuana use is becoming excessive and potentially harmful.
If you or a loved one is struggling with marijuana use, you’re not alone. At Northview Wellness Center, we specialize in helping individuals understand and overcome substance use challenges. Our compassionate team provides personalized treatment plans to help you regain control and build healthier coping strategies. Contact us
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