Trying weed for the first time can feel like a mix of curiosity, excitement, and maybe a little nervousness. It’s completely normal to have questions about what to expect.
Having a bit of insight beforehand can help you feel more at ease if you're thinking about giving it a go. Below, we’ll walk you through how to prepare, what happens the first time you smoke weed, potential side effects, and what to do afterwards.
How to Prepare
Find the Right Product
Not all cannabis products are created equal. If it’s your first time smoking weed, choosing the right strain and product is essential. Generally, cannabis is categorised into indica, sativa, and hybrid strains, each offering different effects.
Indica strains tend to be more relaxing, sativa is known for its energising qualities, and hybrids offer a mix of both. For beginners, a strain with a lower THC content is best to avoid overwhelming effects.
Start Small
When trying weed for the first time, less is more. THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, affects everyone differently. A single puff or two is a good starting point.
Smoking a blunt for the first time or taking multiple hits from a joint could lead to an experience that’s too intense. Instead, start with a small amount and wait to see how you feel before taking more.
Be in the Right Place
Setting matters. Being in a comfortable, familiar, and safe environment can make your first time smoking weed a positive experience. Whether it’s at home with trusted friends or a relaxed outdoor setting, make sure you’re somewhere that allows you to unwind without worry.
Clear Your Schedule
Weed affects people differently, especially first-timers. Some experience relaxation and euphoria, while others might feel groggy or anxious. If it’s your first time, clear your schedule for the day so you can enjoy the experience without any obligations.
What to Expect While Smoking
Expect Quick, Intense Results
Smoking weed delivers effects quickly, usually within minutes. As THC enters your bloodstream, you may experience a shift in perception, increased relaxation, or enhanced sensory experiences.
First-time smokers often report feeling giggly, more creative, or deeply relaxed. However, some may also experience mild anxiety or paranoia, which usually fades as the high wears off.
Be Prepared to Cough
One of the most common side effects of smoking weed for the first time is coughing. Inhaling smoke, especially if you’re not used to it, can be harsh on the lungs. Take slow, small inhales rather than big, deep ones to reduce discomfort.
Don’t Focus on the High
If you’re new to cannabis, you might wonder what it's like to smoke weed for the very first time. The truth is, the experience varies.
Rather than overanalysing how you feel, allow yourself to relax and go with the flow. Focusing too much on whether you’re high can lead to unnecessary anxiety.
Understand What’s Happening
Knowing how THC affects your body can make a big difference in your experience. When THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in your brain, it alters perception, mood, and cognition.
This is why everything from music to food might seem enhanced. If you start feeling too high, remind yourself that the effects are temporary and will fade in a few hours.
Know What to Do If You Smoke Too Much
It’s possible to overdo it when smoking for the first time. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t panic — your high will pass.
Drinking water, taking deep breaths, lying down, or eating a light snack can help. If you feel anxious, try distracting yourself with music, a funny TV show, or talking to a friend.
What to Do After Smoking for the First Time
Once the high starts to fade, you might feel a bit tired or sluggish. Staying hydrated, eating a nutritious meal, and getting some rest can help you recover.
Some people also experience a "weed hangover" the next day, which may include grogginess or a dry mouth. These effects are temporary and should disappear with sleep and hydration.
Reflecting on your experience can also be helpful. Did you enjoy it? Would you try a different strain or a lower dose next time? Taking notes on how you felt can guide future sessions and help tailor your experience to your preferences.
The Social Aspect of Smoking Weed
Smoking Alone vs. With Friends
Your first experience with cannabis can be influenced by whether you smoke alone or with others. Smoking alone allows you to focus on how you feel without external pressures while smoking with friends can make the experience more enjoyable and relaxed.
If you do smoke with others, choose a group of trusted friends who are supportive and experienced.
Dealing with Peer Pressure
It can be easy to feel pressured to take more hits or experiment with stronger products when you're around friends. However, it's important to smoke at your own comfort level.
Remember, cannabis affects everyone differently, and it’s okay to take things slow. Communicating your limits and making sure you feel as comfortable as possible is key to having a good first experience.
Legal Considerations and Responsible Use
Understanding the Law
Cannabis laws in the UK are strict. Marijuana is still classified as a Class B drug. This means possession, use, and distribution can lead to legal consequences.
While medicinal cannabis is available under certain conditions, recreational use remains illegal. You need to make sure you understand the legal risks you could face before trying weed.
Safe and Responsible Consumption
Responsibility is important even in places where weed is legal. Avoid driving or operating machinery while high, and be mindful of how much you consume. Setting personal limits and knowing when to stop will make your experience much better.
Try Legal Cannabis Alternatives
If smoking weed for the first time feels like too much, there are legal cannabis alternatives worth exploring. CBD, for example, offers relaxation and stress relief without the high.
CBD oils, edibles, and vape pens provide a more controlled and predictable experience compared to smoking weed. These products are legal in the UK and can be a great introduction to cannabis without the psychoactive effects.
Final Thoughts
Trying weed for the first time can be an exciting yet unpredictable experience. Preparation is key — choosing the right strain, starting with a small amount, and being in a comfortable setting can make all the difference.
While some side effects of smoking weed for the first time may include coughing or mild anxiety, they’re typically short-lived. If you’re unsure about smoking, legal cannabis alternatives like CBD provide a gentler introduction.