Why Am I Not High?: A Talk About Tolerance

The stories are real, and the experiences are significant. Lollapalooza. 1995. Randall’s Island. NORML puts a petition in your face. You sign it. They send mail to your parents' house long after you’re gone. You’re hooked. Mary Jane called you by name, and you’ve been calling out to her every day because, let’s face it—life is fucked up. Life has always been fucked up. But who could have imagined this kind of dumpster fire, right?

Trouble is, you just smoked three bowls reading this cold intro, and… nothing. You’re blowing through your stash like a kid who loves cake, and that’s not cool. And you know it. “Why am I not getting high?” But the answer is clear: your tolerance is way off the charts. You’ve been smoking so much weed, even Redman is concerned for you. And worst of all, you’re going nowhere—except maybe to the dispensary, again and again and again. There’s an old saying: What once were vices, now are habits.

But don’t worry, there are ways to reset your tolerance and realign your mind.

Cold Turkey

We all know what this is, so no need for a deep dive. Maybe this isn’t the best route if you’ve been a longtime toker, but if you’re determined, people have the power. Do what’s right for you. Stock up on your favorite comfort items for the early days: soup, a beloved pillow, a new series to binge, a puzzle—whatever keeps your mind occupied. Avoid alcohol and stay hydrated with Gatorade or coconut water. If you experience nausea, sip on ginger ale or classic Coke.

Planned Tapering

This is the method most people gravitate toward. Simply measure your consumption and gradually reduce it by a set percentage each day. Another approach: if you smoke three blunts a day, cut down to two, then one, over a period of days or weeks—whatever feels manageable. Whether your goal is a full hiatus or just cutting back, this method keeps things under control.

If you’ve been heavy into concentrates, consider switching to flower. The transition might be slow, but it’ll help your body adjust while reducing overall THC intake, which may ease withdrawal discomfort.

Transition to CBD

This is another popular option, especially for those who use cannabis for pain management. CBD provides relief without the psychoactive effects of THC, making it a great tool for tapering. It’s especially useful for those who’ve relied on high-THC vape extracts or edibles for an extended time. CBD can support the transition by offering relaxation and relief without THC’s psychoactive effects, particularly for those managing pain.

One word of caution: not all CBD is created equal. Do your research and find a reputable producer using minimal additives. Avoid sketchy packaging and subpar production.

The Final Toke (For A While, Anyway)

The journalist Marc Jacobson once said of weed, “There are times when I smoke it every day, and there are times when I don’t smoke it at all.” The inference is obvious: everything in moderation. Whatever your goals are, make them realistic, make them for yourself, and soon enough, your marijuana experience will be careening thankfully back toward the sublime.