Recognizing when someone is high is becoming more important than ever, especially with the growing acceptance and legalization of marijuana. Whether you are a concerned parent, friend, or loved one, knowing the signs can help you take the right steps to address the situation. In this guide, we will break down how to tell if someone is high, including physical, behavioral, and cognitive symptoms. We’ll also explore how to tell if someone is high over text, common paraphernalia, and what to do if you suspect marijuana use.
Understanding these signs can help you navigate delicate situations with empathy and awareness. By being informed about the physiological and psychological effects of marijuana, you can better identify when someone might be under its influence. This knowledge is not only useful for addressing immediate concerns but also for fostering open and constructive conversations about substance use.
Marijuana, also known as weed, pot, or cannabis, is a psychoactive drug derived from the cannabis plant. The primary compound responsible for its effects is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). When consumed, THC interacts with receptors in the brain, leading to altered perception, mood changes, and physical symptoms.
Marijuana can be consumed in various ways, including smoking, vaping, and edibles. The effects vary based on the amount ingested, the user’s tolerance, and the specific strain consumed. For example, some strains are known for their relaxing properties (indica), while others may produce more energizing effects (sativa). Recognizing these effects is key when trying to determine if someone is under the influence.
The way marijuana affects individuals depends on several factors beyond just dosage or strain. A person’s age, body weight, metabolism, and even their mental state at the time of consumption can all play a role in how they experience its effects. This variability makes it essential to look at a combination of signs rather than relying on a single symptom when trying to determine if someone is high.
Marijuana affects each person differently, but there are common signs that indicate someone may be under its influence.
A high person may exhibit noticeable physical changes that are often hard to miss. These include:
These physical symptoms are often accompanied by subtle behavioral cues that may provide further confirmation of marijuana use.
Marijuana use impacts cognitive functions significantly. These changes often manifest as:
These symptoms can interfere with daily activities and responsibilities, making it easier to identify when someone might be under the influence.
Marijuana’s effects extend beyond physical and cognitive changes, often influencing a person’s emotional and psychological state. A high person may experience uncontrollable laughter, sometimes over mundane or ordinary situations. This is due to THC’s impact on the brain’s reward system, heightening the sense of pleasure and making even simple things seem overwhelmingly funny.
Mood swings are another common psychological symptom. Someone who was initially relaxed and euphoric may suddenly become irritable, anxious, or paranoid. These shifts can be unpredictable and may vary in intensity depending on the strain of marijuana consumed. Increased anxiety is particularly notable in individuals who are new to marijuana or those consuming high-potency strains. In some cases, marijuana can trigger intense paranoia or even full-blown panic attacks, making the experience distressing rather than enjoyable.
A detached or dreamy demeanor is another sign that someone may be high. Conversations with a high person might feel disconnected or surreal, as their thoughts may wander off mid-sentence. They may struggle to follow the thread of a discussion, appearing lost in their own world. This can make interactions feel unusual or confusing, particularly if they are speaking in an exaggeratedly philosophical or introspective manner.
The way a person reacts emotionally while high can also depend on their surroundings. In a comfortable and familiar setting, they may appear relaxed and happy. However, in unfamiliar or stressful environments, marijuana can amplify negative emotions, leading to feelings of unease or discomfort. These unpredictable emotional shifts can make it challenging to gauge how a high person might respond to different situations.
Sometimes, you may suspect that someone is high even if they are not physically present. Recognizing how to tell if someone is high over text involves paying attention to subtle clues in their communication style:
Understanding high behavior goes beyond physical signs. People who are high often display noticeable shifts in their actions and habits:
Identifying marijuana use goes beyond recognizing behavioral changes; there are often physical clues that indicate a person may be engaging in cannabis consumption. Various forms of paraphernalia are associated with marijuana use, and discovering these items can confirm suspicions.
One of the most common items is rolling papers, which are used to create marijuana cigarettes known as joints. These papers are often thin and lightweight, making them a staple for many marijuana users. Alongside rolling papers, bongs and pipes are frequently found among individuals who consume marijuana. These tools, designed for smoking cannabis, come in various shapes and sizes and may be made of glass, plastic, or metal. Vaporizers are another commonly used device, allowing users to inhale cannabis extracts in a smokeless form.
Beyond smoking devices, edibles have gained popularity in recent years. These are food items infused with THC, such as gummies, brownies, and candies. Unlike traditional smoking methods, edibles take longer to produce effects, often leading to accidental overconsumption by inexperienced users. If you find suspicious baked goods or packaged THC-infused snacks, they could be a sign of marijuana use.
A distinct odor often accompanies marijuana use. To mask this scent, individuals may use strong air fresheners, scented candles, or perfumes. If someone frequently burns incense or excessively sprays deodorant, it could indicate an attempt to cover up the smell of marijuana.
Marijuana-related clothing, posters, and accessories can also signal an individual’s engagement with cannabis culture. Many enthusiasts wear shirts featuring marijuana leaves or slogans related to cannabis use. Similarly, posters or stickers that reference “420”—a widely recognized symbol for marijuana consumption—might suggest habitual use.
Recognizing these clues, in combination with behavioral signs, can provide a clearer picture of whether someone is using marijuana. When suspicions arise, it is crucial to approach the situation with understanding and an open mind, focusing on education and constructive conversation rather than immediate confrontation.
If you believe someone is high, it’s important to handle the situation thoughtfully. Here are some steps you can take:
Remaining supportive rather than accusatory fosters trust and encourages open dialogue about substance use.
Recognizing the signs of marijuana use is crucial for understanding how best to approach situations where you suspect someone might be high. From physical symptoms like bloodshot eyes and dry mouth to behavioral changes such as lack of motivation or increased appetite, being aware helps you respond appropriately. If you suspect someone is struggling with marijuana use beyond casual consumption, offering support and guidance could make all the difference in helping them make healthier choices.
If you suspect someone you care about is struggling with marijuana use, now is the time to take action. At Asana Recovery, we provide compassionate, evidence-based treatment to help individuals regain control of their lives. Whether it’s occasional use that’s becoming a problem or a deeper dependency, our expert team is here to guide you on the path to recovery. Contact us today to learn more about our personalized treatment programs and take the first step toward a healthier future.
You can tell if someone is high by observing physical signs like red eyes, dry mouth, and slowed coordination. Behavioral changes such as sudden laughter, difficulty focusing, and increased appetite may also indicate marijuana use.
High people may display a range of behaviors, including excessive giggling, zoning out, difficulty following conversations, and impaired motor skills. They may also experience mood swings, shifting from euphoria to paranoia.
If someone is high while texting, they may take longer to respond, send incoherent or fragmented messages, or overuse emojis and laughter. Frequent typos or misspelled words may also be a sign.
Chronic marijuana use can lead to memory problems, difficulty concentrating, reduced motivation, and increased risk of anxiety and depression. It may also impact lung health if smoked regularly.
Some people use eye drops to reduce redness, breath mints to mask the smell, or air fresheners to disguise odors. However, behavioral and cognitive changes can still be noticeable.
If you suspect someone is high, approach them calmly and without judgment. Observe their behavior and wait until they are sober to discuss concerns. If their usage is becoming a problem, seeking professional help may be necessary.
This book has helped so many men and women; and we want to give it you for FREE. Get signed up today and discover how to unlock the grip of addiction and get back to living your best life.
In this book, you’ll discover…
— The Most Common Misconceptions About Addiction and Rehab
— Why Rock Bottom is a Myth and What You Can Do About It
–The Steps to Healing From Trauma, Both Mentally and Emotionally
–And much more!
Asana Recovery is licensed and certified by the State Department of Health Care Services.
© Copyright 2024 Asana Recovery™ | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy
You could save up to 100% of your treatment using your Insurance.
