It was my second year of university and I was at a friend’s birthday party. My roommate had spent the afternoon baking the most delectable looking chocolate cake, infused with cannabis that she cooked off into the oil. I was no stranger to cannabis, though, at the time, my only experience with it was smoking. Assuming that the effects would be the same, I happily indulged in a piece of cake to go with my glass of wine. Being a little drunk (and hungry!) I opted for a second piece of cake. Bad idea.
As everyone partied around me, the world began to turn upside down. The cannabis cake hit me and it hit hard. I was overwhelmed, anxious and had the spins. What was happening to me? I was way too high and wanted it to stop.
Had I known what I know now, I would have understood that edibles react with your body much differently than smoking does. It takes a lot longer to feel the effects and they last much longer.
If you ever find yourself in a position where you feel too high, follow these five tips to get you through it. Don’t worry, your body isn’t in any danger and you can’t “overdose” on cannabis. It’s going to be one heck of a ride, but you’ll get through it unscathed.
Being too high is unsettling and especially if it’s your first time. The best thing to do is relax, which can be tricky when you’re feeling anxious and/or nervous. Focus on your breathing. You can pretend you’re in a yoga class! Breathe in through your nose for the count of three, hold for a count of six and exhale through your nose for the count of nine. Focus on your breath and slowing your heart rate down.
If you are at a party, like I was, the last thing you want is to be around loud people and music. Find a quiet room or space outdoors where you can relax. If you’re overly anxious, ask a friend to join you! I found comfort out on the patio watching the stars.
Eating will not only give your mind something else to focus on but will also help your body to process the THC faster if you’ve ingested edibles. Opt for foods that are gentle on your stomach, like lean proteins, fruit or nuts.
While you’re enjoying your snack, be sure to drink water, as well. And make sure to stay away from anything alcoholic! Having a pasty mouth is the worst and the familiar act of drinking water will help to keep your mind preoccupied.
CBD will not only help to reduce your anxiety, but it is known to counteract some of the effects of THC and can help lessen the high. If you have any CBD gummies handy (without any THC content!) you should take one. While it won’t be immediate, the CBD will help.
As I sat on the patio with my friend, we watched the stars and talked about life to distract me from the feelings of being too high. After a few hours, the cannabis cake wore off and I was back to feeling like myself. While a little scary at first, it did eventually end and I was no worse for wear.
If you find yourself in the same position, refer to the five tips above and remember that this too shall pass.
Have you ever been too high? How did you handle it? Share your thoughts below!