Why I Keep Smoking Weed Despite Worsening Mental Health

I have a history of alcohol abuse and OCD. If a complete dick like me can wise up, so can you. Period. Alcohol can make things ten times worse, and smoking anything is harmful to your lungs. I haven’t touched alcohol in 15 years.

Treating OCD with Proper Medication and Therapy

OCD is treatable with medication, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and significant lifestyle changes. The message here is to stop wrecking your health. If I can stop, so can you. I am not 100% well, but life is still shit at times, yet I’m alive and functioning reasonably well.

My drinking partner passed away 10 years ago from alcohol. The scene was a mess, and it was a sobering reminder of the prices we pay for our addictions. So, come on, get well. It’s much better to have crazy thoughts you can’t control than to live in a permanent daze.

The Struggle with OCD and Weed

Living with OCD can be challenging. Once I start something like cleaning, it's hard to stop. Smoking weed can provide temporary relief and calmness, but the problem arises when I use it without a clear purpose. When I use weed without a specific task or reason, anxiety escalates. The relief from weed is short-lived, and the anxiety builds up. This cycle is harmful and needs to be broken.

Balancing Mental Health and Addiction

Maintaining mental health in the face of addiction is a delicate balance. For individuals with OCD, marijuana can offer temporary relief from anxiety, but its long-term effects are often detrimental. It’s crucial to understand that while weed might provide temporary respite, it doesn't address the underlying issues.

Instead of relying on substances to manage anxiety, it’s essential to address the root causes of OCD and mental health struggles. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and medication can be effective, but they require consistent effort and commitment. Lifestyle changes, such as mindfulness practices, regular exercise, and a healthy diet, can also make a significant difference.

Breaking the Cycle of Addiction and OCD

To overcome addiction and OCD, it’s important to:

Seek professional help: Consult therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups for guidance and treatment options.

Establish coping mechanisms: Develop strategies to manage anxiety and impulses without relying on substances.

Build a support network: Connect with friends, family, and peers who understand and can offer encouragement.

Engage in regular self-care: Prioritize activities that nourish your mind and body.

By taking these steps, you can break the cycle of addiction and improve your mental health. It won't be easy, but with persistence and a support system, you can live a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Conclusion

Living with both OCD and a history of addiction is a challenging journey. While weed might provide temporary relief, it ultimately worsens mental health. The key to overcoming these struggles is seeking professional help, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and prioritizing self-care.

Remember, even if you have a history of abuse and mental health challenges, you can make positive changes. I’ve been through it, and I’m still working on it every day. It’s not about being perfect; it's about making progress and being better than you were yesterday.

So, stop wrecking your health. You’re stronger than you think. Come on, get well.