Understanding the stage of being High on Cannabis
When people use cannabis, their minds and bodies go through several distinct stages of experiencing the drug’s effects. The stages of being high range from initial feelings of euphoria to a relaxing comedown. These stages are generally universal but will vary slightly from person to person.
How a person reacts to cannabis depends on many factors. These factors can include the dose of THC, strain of cannabis, potency of dose, method of consumption, how often cannabis is used and individual factors.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug in the US. Cannabis is still considered illegal in many places. Typical sensations experienced by cannabis use include feelings of relaxation, euphoria, giggles, hunger, greater amusement and enjoyment, greater sensitivity to color, touch, smell and taste.
The onset of THC effects can be fairly quick, especially when it is vaped or smoked. On the other hand, edibles tend to take much longer to kick in. This often delays the effects and leading users to consume more than they intended to and increasing risks. The effects of THC can be enjoyable but also disorientating and it is important to understand the effects, risks and timeline for maintaining a high.
Understanding Cannabis and THC
Cannabis contains many compounds. THC is the main psychoactive component and is responsible for the high and euphoria many users experience with cannabis. Each user will experience slightly different effects based on their own biological factors and the cannabis strain, dose and potency used. Other factors such as tolerance and consumption, can also impact the cannabis experience.
For safe cannabis use, users should start with a low dose. Users should avoid mixing cannabis with other substances like alcohol and other drugs. Users should also consider consuming cannabis in a safe and comfortable environment. This can influence the experience of the stages of getting high on cannabis.
The THC Timeline: How fast and how long does a high last?
When smoking or vaping cannabis, the effects typically begin within minutes. Effects can begin within 5 to 10 minutes, peak effects last around 30 to 60 minutes and lingering effects can go on for 1 to 3 hours. Edibles take longer. Effects can begin within 30 to 120 minutes but can last for up to 6 hours or more. The high is less intense but can last for an extended period as it slowly moves through your bloodstream.
In general, once THC takes effect, the high can last anywhere from 2 to 6 hours. The duration of the high will depend on factors like individual tolerance and potency of the product being used. Knowing this timeline can help users anticipate and manage their experience effectively and safely.
Factors that impact your High
The experience of being high on cannabis is different for everyone. Several factors contribute to these differences and influence the intensity and duration of each state.
- Dosage – Higher THC levels increase the intensity and duration of the cannabis high.
- Type of cannabinoid – Different strains of cannabis offer their own unique mix of cannabinoids to produce different flavor profiles and feelings. The indicia strain is associated with feelings of relaxation, while the sativa strain is associated with a more active and physical high.
- Potency
- Delivery of product – Smoking and vaping offer a fast-paced experience, while edibles offer a slow and steady high over a longer period of time.
- Tolerance – Individual tolerance to cannabis is important because regular users will eventually need a higher dose in order to experience the same high.
- Age, gender and biology – A younger person may have a more pleasant experience with cannabis compared to an older person because they have a faster and more efficient metabolism.
- Environment – The right setting can alter perception and comfort when a person is high.
- Mood and mindset – Preexisting health and mental health conditions can impact the experience.
- Frequency of use
- The use of alcohol and other drugs
What are the Stages of Being High?
Cannabis high occurs in different distinct stages with each offering a unique experience. There are 4 main stages of being high: the onset, the peak, the plateau and the comedown. Each stage differs in physical and psychological experience.
The onset. During this state, users begin to experience the first inkling of sensations marked by warmth and tingling. It can almost be described as the beginning of gentle euphoria. Within 30 minutes or so, users can feel a sense of relaxation and colors will begin to change and appear brighter and sounds more vivid. This initial stage will set the foundation of the entire experience.
The peak. It is also known as the happiness stage. It is the height of the high. During this state, the THC effects are the most intense due to heightened sensory perception. This stage occurs about 30 to 180 minutes in.
During the peak stage, users can experience deep relaxation and creative thoughts, along with intense euphoria. This peak period can last anywhere between 30 minutes and 2 hours. The peak stage offers maximum intensity of effects.
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The plateau. During this stage, users are at a stable high and will notice that their effects will begin to level off. Consistent euphoria and relaxed sensations are experienced. Time distortion becomes more noticeable and there is a heaviness to limbs.
There is a stage that some people experience. It doesn’t happen to everyone. It is the “getting way too high” stage. Users might find it difficult to move or they begin to experience a sense of paranoia. This stage can be overwhelming, but it is important to remember it is just temporary.
The comedown. During the end period of a cannabis high, there is a slow transition back to normalcy. The effects of THC will gradually diminish and users can even begin to feel tired and hungry. A sense of calm will replace the previous feelings of intensity and there will be a return to baseline.
It can also be described as a gentle conclusion to the experience, leaving the user content, relaxed and peaceful. The user’s energy levels begin to decrease as the body processes the entire experience.
The final stage in which most people do not talk about,t is the urge. During this last stage, users may develop a sense of want or urge to experience the drug sensations again. This is common in those who are frequent users, recreational users or those who misuse and abuse THC products.
Dangers and Potential Risks of Cannabis Use
While cannabis use is often perceived as safe, it can still carry potential health risks. One of the major risks is the risk of addiction. High doses of THC can lead to negative side effects that include heightened anxiety and paranoia. Physical effects like impaired coordination and slower reaction times can also pose dangers and are linked to increased risk of accidents.
Cannabis use is especially dangerous when it is mixed with other substances like alcohol. When you consume cannabis in an unfamiliar environment, you risk experiencing an uncomfortable high. If you already have a history of mental health issues, cannabis can exacerbate these issues.
When used recreationally or abused, cannabis can lead to feelings of anxiety, confusion, delusions, hallucinations, high blood pressure, nausea, paranoia, psychosis and rapid heart rate. Long-term use of any cannabis product can lead to dependency, tolerance and addiction.
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References:
https://highprofilecannabis.com/high-vibes/stages-and-levels-of-being-high-explained
https://www.healthline.com/health/what-does-it-feel-like-to-be-high#what-it-feels-like
https://mood.com/blog/stages-of-being-high
