It happens to the best of us. While cannabis can do a lot of wonderful things, too much of a good plant can sometimes create unwanted side effects, including anxiety and paranoia.

Most of us who enjoy that wacky tobaccy have experienced a bad high at least a few times. The good news is, there are concrete steps you can take to mitigate these bad feelings and get your buzz back on track. Here are 5 helpful tips for when you get too high.

1. Don’t freak out.

Fear is the mind killer. Once you give an over-stoned brain an inch, it can take a long and winding mile, all the way to a full-blown freak-out.

Here’s the thing: you cannot physically overdose on cannabis in the same way you could on cocaine or oxycontin, because there are no cannabinoid receptors in the parts of your brain that control your lungs or cardiovascular system. Uncomfortable feelings are just that – feelings – and feelings are usually temporary.

When the brain weasels start to scurry, whether that means contemplating your pet’s mortality or dwelling on that humiliating faux pas you made in fifth grade, try saying to yourself – out loud, if you can – “I’m safe. I’m ok. I will not feel like this forever.” Take deep breaths, pulling the air all the way into your diaphragm and pushing it back out slowly. Gently rub your arms and chest, almost like you’re giving yourself a comforting hug. Do some stretches or jumping jacks. Anything you can do to take yourself out of your brain and into your body.

Above all else, remember… you’re not dying. You’re just too high.

2. Take some CBD.

Did you know that THC and CBD actually work synergistically within your endocannabinoid system? It’s a phenomenon known as “the entourage effect.” Basically, these two cannabinoids work together by stimulating different receptors in complementary ways, or by stimulating the same receptor in different ways.

THC binds strongly to your CB1 and CB2 endocannabinoid receptors, producing a range of effects including euphoric intoxication, appetite stimulation, sedation and, in too-high doses, sometimes anxiety.  CBD, which is much loved for its anti-inflammatory and stress-relieving properties, may temper some of THC’s less desirable effects. In addition, CBD is believed to stimulate 5-HT1a receptors, which can increase levels of stress-relieving serotonin.

All this to say: there is a very scientific reason for keeping some CBD (or Wana Optimals Quick Calm Gummies) on the shelf, and reaching for it anytime you’ve had too much THC.

3. Drink water.

Some people think lots of water can flush THC out of your system. Jury’s kind of out on that – unfortunately, guzzling H20 is not likely to help you pass your next drug test. But dehydration can significantly exacerbate anxious feelings, so keeping yourself watered is a good way to keep yourself calm. Also, having a simple, physical goal like, “I want to drink this whole glass of water in the next thirty minutes,” can help you focus enough on the here and now to slow those spiraling thoughts.

4. Eat smart.

When you’re feeling sad or stressed, it’ tempting to reach for your favorite comfort food. But that bowl of mac and cheese might do your high more harm than good. That’s because THC binds to fat. The more fatty food you have in your system, the more those molecules have to grab onto and the longer your bad high will last.

On the other hand, there are some foods that can actually counteract THC-induced anxiety. Lemons, which are chock full of the terpene limonene, are one of these. Black peppercorns are another, because they contain high levels of a terpene called beta-caryophyllene. Like CBD, these handy plant compounds can temper the unwanted side effects of THC.

5. Retreat to the comfort zone.

The comfort zone looks different for everyone. For some, it’s calling a close friend for reassurance. For others, it’s holing up in a quiet room to watch Jurassic Park for the 507th time. The point is to do something, go somewhere, or speak to someone who makes you feel safe and grounded.

And if all else fails, try going to sleep! We promise you’ll feel better in the morning.