I think I have an addiction-- should I tell my friends?

Poofy_Goodness

I think I'm addicted to marijuana. Actually, I know I am addicted to marijuana. I think I want to quit. I don't really have any friends who are still habitual smokers, but I do have some friends who occasionally light up. They're used to me joining them. If I choose to quit (possible 2014 goal) should I tell them it's because I am addicted? Should I tell them I no longer have control over my habit?

I feel ashamed and embarrassed that my smoking has gotten so out of hand that it is negatively impacting my life. I think marijuana is a pretty harmless drug in the big picture of things, and the fact that it has become harmful for me is kind of shameful.

I could be overthinking. It will probably be as simple as saying "no thanks" when the joint comes around to me, but I get paranoid that someone will ask why I'm not having any.

If that does happen should I be open and honest, or just say I'm not in the mood or something?

ThePlight

If you need an answer to your "No, thanks!" just tell them that you're cutting down.
When you quit, tell them you got bored of it. Problem solved and no one has to know (unless one day you tell them).

ldrosophila

I think it depends some of your friends might become defensive and guilt you into your addiction. Others, may be like OK and understand. Can you personally be around smoking and now want do it?

Poofy_Goodness

Can you personally be around smoking and now want do it?

It depends on the situation. The times it feels hardest to resist is when I feel like I've earned it... say after a hike, or on a camping trip, or helping a friend move or something.

If it's just at someone's place sitting around then it's easy to say no.

When you quit, tell them you got bored of it.

I would, but that might seem a bit judgmental.

BajaDreamin333

Good for you! Don't let peer pressure get you down. You've made a step to changing your life. You know it's something YOU want out of your life, and other people don't have to live in your skin. If it is hard to say no, stay away from those friends for awhile. There is nothing wrong with admitting to people who care about you that "hey, I think i have a problem and need to take a break". If they can't deal with that, some distance might be best until you get over the initial withdrawal.

They do call it "dope" for a reason. Never has anyone said "man I got so baked I had to run 4 miles" so if fitness is your goal, that is a strong motivator right there.

"We admitted we were powerless over "XXX" and our lives had become unmanageable" - Step one. You've taken it, so stick to your guns.

TheRoadDog

I wish it were so easy that you could just say "No, Thank You" but some of your friends will either try to get you to smoke with them or make a judgement of you.

I did drugs once. From 1976 until 1987. I was messed up that whole time. My drug of choice was Cocaine, but I did not say no to anything.

One day I stopped and never did it again. I was only successful when I cut those friends loose that were still doing drugs. You have to remove yourself from that environment. Youre tru friends will understand and the others will fade from your life, leaving opportunities to make new friends.

TheSlorax

I feel ashamed and embarrassed that my smoking has gotten so out of hand that it is negatively impacting my life. I think marijuana is a pretty harmless drug in the big picture of things, and the fact that it has become harmful for me is kind of shameful.

I am a relatively frequent smoker, and while I agree that the substance itself is not addictive, I can certainly see how the habit might become so. it is nothing to be ashamed of. I used to work in a group home that was a rehab for teens, and we went to a couple marijuana anonymous meetings. While the kids really got a kick out of it, it kind of showed me that it can be a real problem for some people. You really have nothing to be ashamed about, and I would recommend reaching out to meetings or someone who can help you quit the habit. Do what's best for you, if your friends aren't supportive then they're the ones who suck, not you.

Unfortunately this thread might get locked soon which sucks, but hopefully there will be some good advice for you before that happens. Good luck OP!

fbmandy55

It depends on the situation. The times it feels hardest to resist is when I feel like I've earned it... say after a hike, or on a camping trip, or helping a friend move or something.

Trying to figure out how you are 'addicted" as a smoker myself...From what you said above, what makes smoking after those activities any different than someone having a drink after those activities? Why do you feel the need to resist when it's time to wind down?

Not judging just curious. Marijuana is not an addictive substance, rather it could be a mental issue that has you attached to it than the buzz.

RonnieLodge

^ WTAF?!?^ Dude, take it somewhere else.

I could be overthinking. It will probably be as simple as saying "no thanks" when the joint comes around to me, but I get paranoid that someone will ask why I'm not having any.

If that does happen should I be open and honest, or just say I'm not in the mood or something?

Yeah, you are overthinking it. Just simply say "no thanks, don't feel in the mood" when it comes round to you.

Jersey_Devil

In 20 more minutes, someone is gonna reply at 4:20. Just saying.

In all seriousness though, addiction is touch. Maybe you should reach out to your friends/family for help at a time when joints arent being passed around.

43932452

I'm thankful it's not one of my afflictions! I can't imagine
how much harder it would be for me to lose the pounds!

Poofy_Goodness

Thanks for the responses.

I do not think my friends will pressure me-- I'm the one who smokes the most out of everyone I know. My pothead friends are long gone.

I am having a problem with the shame of admitting I no longer feel in control of my habit, considering I think marijuana isn't a particularly harmful substance. I know its a psychological issue, not a physical addiction to the substance.

blytheandbonnie

I just told my friends that the high wasn't any fun for me anymore. It covered any questions and they were all cool with it.

jamiesillimandunn

I wish it were so easy that you could just say "No, Thank You" but some of your friends will either try to get you to smoke with them or make a judgement of you.

I did drugs once. From 1976 until 1987. I was messed up that whole time. My drug of choice was Cocaine, but I did not say no to anything.

One day I stopped and never did it again. I was only successful when I cut those friends loose that were still doing drugs. You have to remove yourself from that environment. Youre tru friends will understand and the others will fade from your life, leaving opportunities to make new friends.

^^^^ this is sound advice !! I had my party time ...and everyone I was partying hard with HAD TO GO !! One day you wake up and say ...I'm not living like this anymore and make the choice to quit , distance yourself from people who still do ...and move on ...good luck to you and no it's not your job to spill the beans on a possible addiction , just let them know your moving on from that

ldrosophila

Thanks for the responses.

I do not think my friends will pressure me-- I'm the one who smokes the most out of everyone I know. My pothead friends are long gone.

I am having a problem with the shame of admitting I no longer feel in control of my habit, considering I think marijuana isn't a particularly harmful substance. I know its a psychological issue, not a physical addiction to the substance.

Please dont feel shame. I dont care if your substance of abuse was gambling, sex, food, or some other substance that other people may be able to avoid feeling that lose of control. With all addiction you cant get help until you make that first step and admit there is a problem. I wish you the best may you get your life on track, get the help you need and feel that joy of being sober.