How to Help a Friend Who’s Too High on Weed – UK Guide

Trying cannabis can be a fun and relaxing experience—until someone overdoes it. Whether it’s a newcomer experimenting for the first time or a seasoned user trying a particularly potent strain, getting “too high” is more common than you might think.

While cannabis-related discomfort is rarely dangerous, it can be unsettling. That’s why it’s important to know how to calm someone down when they’ve had a bit too much. Here’s how to help a friend regain their balance and feel safe.

Recognising When Someone Has Had Too Much

Cannabis affects everyone differently, depending on factors like body weight, tolerance, and mental state. While common side effects like dry mouth or red eyes are harmless, others—such as anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, or poor coordination—require a bit more attention and support.

Being prepared is especially vital in shared environments, like social smoking circles or edible sessions. Make sure everyone knows what’s being consumed and encourage open communication about individual limits.

1. Managing Cannabis-Induced Paranoia

What it looks like:
Your friend may seem suspicious, anxious, or overly self-conscious. They might feel like people are watching them or that something bad is about to happen, even when everything is fine.

How to help:

• Remove them from overstimulating environments—quiet, calm spaces are best.

• Encourage deep breathing and offer water or a light snack.

• Avoid loud music or chaotic surroundings.

• Reassure them verbally with a calm and friendly tone.

• Avoid alcohol, which can worsen paranoia.

If you’re indoors, dim the lights. Outdoors, try a quiet walk in nature or a shaded garden.

2. Helping a Friend Through Hallucinations

What it looks like:
Your friend may be seeing, hearing, or feeling things that aren’t there. This could be caused by high-THC strains or consuming more than intended—especially with edibles.

How to help:

• Stay calm and grounded. Be a reassuring presence.

• Sit with them and gently remind them that the effects are temporary.

• Play calming music through headphones.

• Move them to a safe, quiet space where they feel secure.

• Avoid confrontation or rationalising with them—they may not process logic at the moment.

Switching to CBD-rich products in the future may reduce the chances of similar experiences.

3. Addressing Disorientation and Poor Motor Control

What it looks like:
Cannabis can slow down reaction time, affect balance, and impair focus. Your friend may feel unsteady on their feet, forget what they were doing, or struggle to keep up with conversation.

How to help:

• Gently discourage any risky activity, such as driving or cycling.

• Offer a glass of water and suggest a seat or lie-down.

• Keep things low-key and distraction-free.

• A walk in fresh air or gentle stretching can help restore focus.

• Avoid stimulants like coffee—stick to hydration and rest.

If these symptoms happen regularly with a specific strain, it may be worth exploring alternatives with lower THC levels or balanced THC:CBD ratios.

When It’s Time to Seek Medical Help

While rare, cannabis can occasionally affect heart rate or blood pressure, especially in users with underlying conditions. If your friend experiences chest pain, dizziness, fainting, or an irregular heartbeat, don’t wait—call 111 or go to the nearest A&E in the UK.

Certain strains may be better suited for individuals with cardiovascular sensitivity. Options like Blue Dream, Northern Lights, and Purple Wreck offer balanced cannabinoid profiles that may be gentler on the system.

Final Thought: Use Responsibly and Stay Informed

Cannabis can offer many benefits, but it’s always best enjoyed in moderation and with awareness. Helping a friend through a difficult moment isn’t just kind—it promotes safer and more responsible cannabis use for everyone involved.

Next time you gather with mates, keep these tips in mind. Being informed could make the difference between a good time and a stressful situation.