A Teen’s Story of Marijuana Recovery

The First High That Changed Everything

I was 16 the first time I got stoned. That moment changed everything. The first time I smoked pot, I didn’t feel anything and didn’t really see the point. I had already been drinking for a year, and I liked alcohol—it gave me the escape I wanted. But the first time weed actually got me high, I ditched the bottle and picked up the pipe. That choice marked the beginning of two years of chaos.

Back then, I thought I had it all under control. I didn’t smoke like the others—just occasionally, or so I told myself. I could act sober around my parents because I thought they were clueless. I believed I was different, that I had it together. But in reality, I was slipping fast.

Hitting Rock Bottom

When I started high school, I saw getting high as a way to fit in. I found a spot in the stoner circle, but I never really felt like I belonged. Even among them, I told myself I was different because I didn’t smoke as much. But my 1.6 GPA told a different story—school was no longer a priority. Weed was.

Eventually, I got caught dealing. My parents raided my room and found everything—except the weed I had on me. I didn’t care. I lit up the very next day. I agreed to go to Marijuana Anonymous (MA), but I had no intention of getting sober. I didn’t believe I was an addict. I thought I could stop anytime I wanted—I just didn’t want to.

I was using daily when everything finally fell apart. In a fit of rage, my dad smashed my guitars. I ran away and ended up in Santa Barbara. A week later, I was found. That was my breaking point. I told my parents I needed help. I admitted I had a problem.

Finding Hope in Marijuana Anonymous

A week later, I went to MA for real. Sometimes, it’s difficult to find such meets. If you don’t have access to a local MA meeting, don’t lose hope. Many people around the world have found recovery from marijuana addiction through Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). The support, structure, and shared experiences in these fellowships can offer a solid foundation for healing—no matter the substance.

I haven’t smoked pot since. Life has improved in so many ways—more than I ever thought possible. If you’re new to MA, my best advice is this: read the literature, get a sponsor, take a commitment. But most of all—KEEP COMING BACK. Your life is still worth living.

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