Marijuana is and has been all the rave for decades. It’s become a staple in media, whether it’s the crux of the content or just an accessory. Music artists like A$AP Rocky, Wiz Khalifa, and Snoop Dogg seemingly can’t get enough of the plant, which boasts pros like relaxation and pain relief. But in reality, weed isn’t the answer for everyone. In fact, it can lead to a usage disorder and put a serious dent in your life.
I was a big weed smoker from 2012 until 2016. There were times when my priorities were out of whack, but I didn’t care because at least I was high. Although I smoked here and there beyond 2016 (which was the year I experienced a severe breakdown), I wasn’t nearly as pressed about it and went on multiple lengthy hiatuses whenever I felt I was getting too caught up.
For years, weed was one of my preferred coping mechanisms. When I couldn’t deal with or bear to think about something, I’d indulge. I had to realize that that behavior was substance abuse and that I needed better ways of handling stress. After lots of soul searching and several months of sobriety, I can say that my life is a lot better. I’m more focused and I feel more in control of my life and my emotions.
Musician, model, and mama Marz Lovejoy had a similar experience with marijuana, as it was a way for her to deal with her feelings.
“I had been smoking weed for 10 years straight with very few breaks. From ages 15 to 25, I was high…”, she says. “In October 2016, I lost one of my closest friends. I tried to smoke the pain away, but knew I could not – I had to face reality. The man I was seeing (Office Magazine’s EIC Simon Rasmussen) was 12 years sober.
The combination of losing a friend and gaining an extremely special lover who gave me an ultimatum (stop smoking, or he couldn’t seriously date me), inspired me to quit cold turkey. November 10th, 2016 marked the beginning of my weed free life. I went on to marry and have a baby with Simon. My life has been skyrocketing ever since.”
Now, I won’t pretend like putting an end to years of smoking will immediately grant you the key to happiness. Nor am I aiming to shame weed smokers, because I completely understand the reasons why people do it. All I’m saying is that I love my weed-free life and it has blessed me with advantages. A few more of these advantages are decreased feelings of fear regarding my health and more time to work on my passions.
Marz also outlined some of the benefits of deciding to put the weed down. The new mother shared, “My mind is more clear, my dreams are more vivid, I’m not lazy anymore, any paranoia or anxiety I had has diminished, [and] I can own my feelings in full — experience the happy and sad substance-free. My life has become more fulfilled and rewarding.
No more excuses…No more dulling my emotions.”
In closing, if you’re thinking about quitting, go for it. Don’t be afraid of a lifestyle change and try to surround yourself with those who encourage this new phase of your life.
Brooklyn White is a journalist with content featured on Teen Vogue, Rookie Mag, and Bitch Media.
By subscribing, you consent to receive emails from BlackDoctor.com. You may unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy & Terms of Service.
