How to tell if someone is smoking weed?

Do you feel that your friend, roommate, or someone close to you has been acting a bit differently lately? Are they more relaxed, constantly laughing, or having a suspiciously large appetite? Cannabis has its specific effects, which manifest in appearance and behavior. Whether you are driven by curiosity or want to confirm your suspicion, here is an overview of the most common signs that someone really enjoys cannabis.

1. Physical signs

Physical manifestations are the most reliable indicator, especially when the person is currently “in the mood.”

Eyes as a mirror

The most well-known and hardest to mask sign is the eyes.

• Red conjunctiva: Active compounds in cannabis lower blood pressure and dilate blood vessels, causing increased blood flow and redness in the eyes.

• Glassy gaze: Eyes may appear glassy, sometimes half-closed or swollen.

• Use of eye drops: If you often find the person using eye drops (e.g., Visine) without an obvious reason (allergy), it may be an attempt to hide this sign.

Distinct smell

Cannabis has a very characteristic, pungent aroma that resembles burnt grass, herbs, or sometimes skunk (earthy, sharp smell).

• Clinging to clothing: Smoke sticks to fabrics (hoodies, hair).
• Masking: Frequent use of strong perfumes, incense in the room, or air fresheners may be an attempt to cover this smell.

Dry mouth and "munchies"

• Cottonmouth: Users often experience extreme thirst and dry lips because THC temporarily blocks saliva production.
• Munchies: Sudden, uncontrollable craving for food, especially sweet or salty snacks (chips, chocolate), even at unusual hours.

2. Changes in behavior and mood

Mental state usually occurs on two levels that are easily recognizable to observers.

Laughter and euphoria

In the first stage, a person is often very talkative, cheerful, and laughs even at things that others find only mildly amusing. Everything seems more entertaining and colorful.

"Chill" phase (slowing down)

Later, the phase of deep calm sets in.

• Slowed reactions: Answering a question may take a second longer, the person seems thoughtful.
• Couch syndrome: Reluctance to engage in physical activity and a preference for comfort, watching movies, or listening to music. The person is simply “chill” and does not want to deal with complex tasks.

3. Change in priorities and interests

In people who regularly enjoy cannabis, you can notice a certain lifestyle. It is not necessarily a loss of motivation, rather a change of pace. Things that previously caused stress are now less important to them. The person may appear more phlegmatic and “above it all.”

4. Objects and “accessories”

If you don’t find anything on the person, you may find evidence in their surroundings. Cannabis users need specific tools to use it.

What to look for during cleaning or accidental discovery:

• Grinder: A small box with teeth inside, used for grinding buds. Often has a strong smell.
• Papers and filters: Long rolling papers (“longies”) and perforated hard papers for filters.
• Pipes, bongs, vaporizers: Glass, wood, or metal tubes, often with burn marks or resin residues.
• Lighters: Especially if they disappear or are found everywhere in pockets.

Conclusion

Recognizing that someone has been relaxing with cannabis is not difficult if you know what to focus on. Red eyes, good mood, a distinctive smell, and sudden cravings for sweets form a classic mosaic. Most of the time, it’s nothing that requires panic, but rather a specific lifestyle and way of relaxing.

Notice: This article is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. It does not contain instructions for cannabis use or for detecting use by others. All information about cannabis is presented in a general and neutral form. Always follow the applicable legislation in your country and respect the privacy of others.