Questions
What to Do If You're High and Anxious: Quick Relief
If you're high and anxious, focus on grounding yourself: move to a calm space, breathe slowly, sip water, and remind yourself the feeling is temporary. Distract with a familiar show or music. If symptoms are severe or you feel you might harm yourself, call 911 or Poison Control.
Immediate Steps to Calm Down When High and Anxious
If you're feeling anxious or panicked after using cannabis, know that you're not alone, and it will pass. Here's what to do right now to bring yourself back to calm.
- Change your environment – Move to a quiet, familiar room. If you're in a crowd or a loud place, step outside or find a bathroom. Reducing stimulation helps your nervous system settle.
- Breathe slowly and deeply – Inhale through your nose for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale through your mouth for 6. Repeat for a few minutes. Slow breathing activates your body's relaxation response.
- Hydrate and eat something light – Drink water or a non-caffeinated beverage. A small snack like crackers or fruit can help stabilize your blood sugar, which can affect mood.
- Distract your mind – Put on a familiar TV show, listen to calming music, or call a friend who knows you're high. Engaging your brain with something neutral shifts focus away from anxious thoughts.
- Remind yourself it's temporary – The high will wear off, usually within a few hours. Repeat a calming phrase like, “This is temporary, I am safe.”
- Try grounding techniques – Name 5 things you can see, 4 you can touch, 3 you can hear, 2 you can smell, and 1 you can taste. This brings you into the present moment.
If you're near San Francisco's SoMa or Financial District, you can step into Cannavine Cannabis Dispensary at 70 2nd St for a quiet moment and a chat with our budtenders—we're here to help, not to judge.
Why Cannabis Can Cause Anxiety
Cannabis affects everyone differently, and anxiety is a common reaction, especially with higher THC levels. THC binds to receptors in the brain that influence mood and fear responses, which can sometimes trigger feelings of paranoia or unease, particularly if you're sensitive or in a stressful setting.
Your mindset and environment play a big role. If you're already feeling anxious, or you're in an unfamiliar place, cannabis can amplify those feelings. Also, edibles can be more intense because they take longer to kick in and the effects are stronger and longer-lasting. Understanding this can help you approach future use with more awareness.
For deeper insights, check out our guide on best sativa for anxiety if you're exploring strains, but remember that prevention starts with dosage and setting.
Preventing Anxiety on Your Next High
You can reduce the chance of a repeat episode by planning ahead. Here are practical steps to take before and during your next session.
- Start low and go slow – Especially with edibles, begin with a low dose (like 5-10mg THC) and wait at least 2 hours before taking more. This is key for beginners; see our 10mg edible first-time tips for guidance.
- Choose a comfortable setting – Be in a place where you feel safe and relaxed, with people you trust. Avoid crowded or unfamiliar environments until you know how you react.
- Check your mindset – If you're already stressed or anxious, consider waiting. Your mental state going in can shape the entire experience.
- Have a plan for calming down – Keep water, a favorite movie, or a playlist ready. Knowing you have tools in place can reduce anxiety before it starts.
- Consider CBD – Some people find that using products with CBD alongside THC can temper the anxiety. You can ask our budtenders at Cannavine for options that might suit you.
If you're new to cannabis, our team at Cannavine Cannabis Dispensary near Montgomery Street BART can help you choose products and dosages that align with your experience level.
When to Seek Medical Help
While cannabis-induced anxiety is usually not dangerous, there are times when you should seek immediate medical attention. If you experience severe symptoms like chest pain, difficulty breathing, fainting, seizures, or if you feel that you might harm yourself or others, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
You can also contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. It's always better to err on the side of caution. For non-emergency questions about cannabis and your health, consider discussing with a healthcare provider. Our dispensary is not a medical facility, but we can point you to resources. If you're in San Francisco, UCSF Cannabis Research offers evidence-based information that can help you make informed decisions.
For details on services and visits, see the main page about dispensary near soma.
Directions to our dispensary near SoMa from Market Center
Start at Market Center and head to Cannavine Cannabis Dispensary (San Francisco) at 70 2nd St, San Francisco, CA 94105.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a bad high last?
A bad high from smoking typically lasts 1-3 hours, while edibles can last 6-8 hours or more. The peak anxiety usually subsides within the first couple of hours. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice.
Can drinking water help a bad high?
Yes, staying hydrated can help ease some physical symptoms like dry mouth and headache, which can contribute to discomfort. However, it won't eliminate the high itself, but it supports your body's natural processes.
Does eating food help when you're too high?
Eating a light snack can help stabilize blood sugar and may reduce nausea or dizziness. It can also give you something to focus on. Avoid heavy or spicy foods that might upset your stomach.
Is it safe to take a shower when high and anxious?
A warm shower can be soothing and help you relax. However, be cautious of dizziness, especially if you're feeling faint. Sit down if needed and avoid hot water if you feel lightheaded.
Can I call a dispensary for help if I'm anxious after using cannabis?
Yes, you can call Cannavine Cannabis Dispensary at (415) 766-4372. Our budtenders are knowledgeable and can offer reassurance and advice. However, for medical emergencies, always call 911 or Poison Control.
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