How to Sober Up When You’re Too High: 10 Quick Fixes

Basic Information and Effects of Marijuana

Understanding the basic information and effects of marijuana is essential for both new and experienced users. Weed affects everyone differently due to factors like tolerance, body weight, metabolism, and even mood at the time of consumption. While some people experience relaxation, euphoria, and heightened sensory perception, others may encounter anxiety, paranoia, or dizziness—especially when consuming higher doses or potent strains.

The method of consumption also plays a key role in how marijuana affects the body:

• Smoking or vaping produces effects within minutes, peaking quickly and fading within a few hours.
• Edibles take longer to kick in—typically 30 minutes to 2 hours—but their effects last much longer and often feel more intense.
• Tinctures and oils offer a middle ground, with effects appearing within 15–45 minutes, depending on dosage and absorption.

Other factors, like genetics, hydration levels, and even diet, can impact how intensely marijuana is felt. Because reactions vary from person to person, it’s always best to start low and go slow to prevent an overwhelming experience.

10 Quick Fixes to Sober Up When You’re Too High

We’ve all been there—one moment, you’re vibing, and the next, you’re questioning reality. Maybe that edible hit harder than expected, or the joint felt a little too strong. Whatever the case, you need a way to come back down to earth—fast. Don’t worry; you’re not stuck like this forever.

1. Don’t Panic—You’re Not Dying

First things first: No one has ever died from a weed overdose. Your brain, however, doesn’t always get that memo. It may insist you’ve reached the point of no return, but the truth is, you’ll be fine in a few hours.

So, take a deep breath. Remind yourself that this feeling is temporary. It will pass. Freaking out only makes things worse, so try to accept the high rather than fight it.

2. Hydrate Like Your Life Depends on It

Water is your new best friend. Cottonmouth is real, and dehydration can make you feel even more disoriented. A cold glass of water will refresh you and give you something to focus on.

If water feels too boring in your currently altered state, try juice or an electrolyte drink. Avoid alcohol and caffeine—they’ll only mess with your system more.

3. Eat Something—But Not Just Anything

Food can help bring you back to earth. However, the type of food matters:

✔ Best choices: Protein-rich foods, nuts, fruits, and whole grains.
✘ Avoid: Sugary snacks and processed junk, making your high even weirder.

If in doubt, choose something hearty and grounding, such as a peanut butter sandwich or a handful of almonds.

4. Take a Cold Shower (or Splash Your Face)

Feeling like your soul has left your body? Cold water shocks the system and can help you regain your sense of reality. If you can, hop in the shower. If that’s too much effort, splash cold water on your face or run your hands under it.

It’s like hitting the reset button on your brain.

5. Get Some Fresh Air

If paranoia is creeping in, step outside. Fresh air and a change of scenery can do wonders. The cool breeze, the sound of birds—anything natural can help ground you.

Just make sure you’re somewhere safe. Wandering through the neighborhood while high as a kite is how you end up starring in someone’s Ring camera footage.

6. Distract Yourself (Because Time Is a Lie)

Time can feel like it’s stretching forever when you’re too high. Sitting there, staring at the clock, will only make it worse. The best solution? Do something to keep your mind occupied.

✔ Listen to music (something calming, not dubstep)
✔ Watch a familiar, lighthearted TV show
✔ Play a simple video game
✔ Doodle, journal, or play with a pet

You aim to engage your brain just enough to ride out the high without overthinking it.

7. Try the Lemon Trick

Yes, this sounds like an old wives’ tale, but lemons contain compounds that counteract THC’s effects. If you have one lying around, squeeze some juice into a glass of water or suck on a slice.

Bonus: Lemon’s fresh scent can also help snap you out of a mental fog.

8. Sniff Black Peppercorns (Seriously, It Works)

Another odd but science-backed trick is black pepper. If you’re anxious or paranoid, sniffing or chewing on black peppercorns can help calm you down.

The reason? Black pepper contains beta-caryophyllene, a compound that interacts with the same receptors as THC and helps take the edge off the high.

9. Take a Nap (If Possible)

This one depends on your level of highness. If you’re too jittery, sleeping might not be an option. But if you feel sluggish or couch-locked, lean into it.

Close your eyes, focus on your breathing, and try to relax. Even if you don’t fully sleep, resting your body can help speed the coming down.

10. CBD to the Rescue

CBD can counteract some of THC’s effects, especially anxiety and paranoia. If you have access to CBD oil, gummies, or capsules, taking a small dose can help balance you out.

Think of it as weed’s responsible older sibling stepping in to clean up the mess.

How Long Until I’m Sober Again?

The duration of your high depends on how much THC you consumed and in what form:

Prepare for a longer ride if you’re deep into an edible-induced haze. But remember: No matter how high you feel, it will wear off.

FAQs

Conclusion: How to Sober Up When You’re Too High

Being too high isn’t fun, but it’s not the end of the world. Stay calm, take care of your body, and distract yourself until the high fades. Next time, maybe take it slow—because as fun as weed can be less is sometimes more.

And if you ever find yourself back in this situation? Well, now you know exactly what to do.

I got to run: it’s almost 4:20!