What are common withdrawal symptoms experienced by individuals discontinuing marijuana use?

Individuals discontinuing marijuana use frequently experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and depression. These symptoms are linked to the changes in neurotransmitter activity resulting from the sudden absence of THC, the active compound in marijuana. When someone who has been using marijuana regularly stops, they may find themselves feeling unusually moody, irritable, or down, which reflects how their body is adjusting to the lack of cannabinoids.

Withdrawal can also manifest in various emotional and psychological symptoms, as the brain has adapted to the presence of THC over time. The emotional disruption during this adjustment period can trigger feelings of anxiety or sadness, leading to significant discomfort for the individual.

While other options may describe various withdrawal or psychiatric symptoms related to other substances, they do not specifically associate with marijuana withdrawal. For instance, psychosis and seizures fit more with substances like alcohol or stimulants, while sweating and tachycardia are more indicative of withdrawal from opioids or stimulants. Neurological deficits and confusion typically arise from severe withdrawal or other conditions, but not specifically from marijuana cessation. Therefore, irritability and depression are the hallmark symptoms of marijuana withdrawal, highlighting the changes in mood and emotional regulation during the period of cessation.