Do you want to stop or reduce smoking cannabis? Fortunately, there are several ways to stop or cut back.

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Be well prepared

It is important that you prepare yourself well if you want to stop or cut back. You can then prepare yourself much better mentally so that your resolution has the best chance of success. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I want to cut back or stop completely? If you want to cut back; How much can I smoke per day or per week?

• When am I going to stop or cut back?

• What are the pros and cons of smoking cannabis?

• What are the pros and cons of stopping smoking cannabis?

• In which situations am I most triggered to smoke cannabis?

• What can I use or do as a distraction when I feel like smoking cannabis?

 

Write down your answers to the questions and create some kind of plan of action. Make sure you have a clear idea of what your personal pitfalls are and consider how you can best avoid them. This way you can prevent yourself from falling back into your old pattern.

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Discover alternative strategies for support

Finding new ways to manage stress or find relaxation can help when quitting cannabis. Yoga, meditation, walking, exercising, hobbies or artistic activities can all help you find fulfillment and reduce stress in a different way without the use of cannabis. Do some research and discover what relaxes you and helps you with distraction in a positive way.

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Ask for help from loved ones

Involving friends and family in your decision to quit can be a great support. Discussing your goals and challenges with people who care about you can provide you with moral support and encouragement during this process. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you know it can help you quit or cut down.

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Seek Professional Help

Are you unable to quit on your own and do you need some more support? Then you can seek professional help. This can be extremely valuable during your quit or reduce attempt. Agencies such as GGZ (Mental Health Care) and Jellynek clinic offer specialized and free support and guidance for people who want to stop using cannabis. They can offer personal advice, therapies and programs that are tailored to your specific needs and situation.

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Here are some organizations you can contact:

• Trimbos Institute: Provides information, advice and referral to drug addiction support agencies.

• Jellinek: In addition to treatments, they also offer information and support to people who want to quit cannabis. This can also be done online, free and anonymously.

• Addiction Care Netherlands (GGZ): An umbrella organization that provides information about addiction care and can recommend local resources.

 

Step-by-step

Remember that quitting cannabis use is a process that takes time and dedication. It's okay to take small steps and seek help along the way. The reason to stop or reduce smoking cannabis is something personal and can be different for everyone. The most important thing is not to judge yourself and be patient during this process.