Identify what your values are. You can do this by taking some time to reflect on what is important to your life and what you envision for your future. Writing down a list may be helpful. Some questions you could ask yourself are: “What is most important to me in a relationship?” “What are some deal breakers?” and “What is my communication style?” [2] X Research source Decide what kind of relationship you are looking for. Are you attracted to someone as a potential fling or are you looking for a long term, committed relationship? Will that person’s habitual marijuana use be difficult or impossible for you to accept? If that is the case, it may be better to let go of that person early on in the dating stages. [3] X Research source
For example, instead of thinking about how the date is going, consider what you two have in common. Do you share interests and goals? Does the conversation flow easily or is there lots of awkward silence?
Don’t be too alarmed if your date brings up their marijuana use fairly early in the dating process. After all, 49% of Americans say they have tried marijuana and it is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States. [6] X Trustworthy Source Pew Research Center Nonpartisan thinktank conducting research and providing information on public opinion, demographic trends, and social trends Go to source
For example, if your partner asks you to repeat yourself, understand that they are under the influence of a drug that impedes their ability to form new memories in the moment and don’t take it too personally.
There are a vast array of medical conditions that cannabis can treat or help alleviate the negative symptoms of such as skin disorders, various forms of cancer, anorexia, chronic pain, sleep disorders, eye diseases, and others. While it is possible that your partner simply enjoys the sensation of being high, they may also have an underlying medical condition you should be aware of. [8] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Marijuana often creates a feeling of euphoria and relaxation, due to a release of dopamine in the brain, but other changes can also occur including: paranoia, heightened sensitivity to noise and lights, increased appetite, anxiety, increased heart rate, difficulty concentrating, decreased coordination, and a shorter attention span. There is also a “come down effect” after the effects of the drug fade which can result in the user feeling tired or sad. [9] X Research source It’s useful to know about these common effects of marijuana, but every person is different so talk to your partner to find out how it personally affects them.
So far, four states (Colorado, Washington, Oregon, and Alaska) have passed new legislature legalizing marijuana, while 14 more states have decriminalized marijuana possession. In fact, 23 states (including Washington DC) now allow medical marijuana. [10] X Trustworthy Source Pew Research Center Nonpartisan thinktank conducting research and providing information on public opinion, demographic trends, and social trends Go to source That being said, marijuana is still illegal at the federal level.
For example, if you do not want to be exposed to smoke, let them know! If they respect your wishes (as any good partner should), they can smoke before or after spending time with you or find other methods of ingesting marijuana (such as consuming edibles).
Compromise takes effort from both sides but you can initiate by asking to have a conversation about what changes you would like to see in the relationship. Don’t start an argument or harshly criticize your partner. Instead, come up with constructive suggestions for what you and your partner could do better and be prepared to listen to their perspective with an open mind. For example, if you feel like you don’t get to see your partner in their sober state often enough, suggest going on sober dates every so often. Unless your partner must be high (due to a medical condition), spending time together that is free of substance use is a great way to strengthen a bond and also allow two people to get to know each other more fully.
For example, if they are pressuring you to ingest marijuana with them or asking you if they can store drugs at your home, it may be time to seriously rethink whether this stoner is someone you really want to be with.
For example, indulge their munchies by checking out a new bakery together or surprising them with some home baked goods!
