Have you ever walked past someone smoking weed and suddenly wondered if it could affect you, too? You're not alone. More people are asking this question now that marijuana use is becoming more common in public and social spaces.

Whether you're a parent, a health conscious individual, or someone just curious about secondhand exposure, understanding how weed affects those nearby matters more than you might think. Here’s what you need to know.

Secondhand Weed Smoke Is Real

Many people assume that only the person actively smoking weed is affected. But just like with tobacco, marijuana smoke lingers, and it’s not always harmless for bystanders. Weed smoke contains some of the same chemicals found in tobacco smoke, including ammonia, hydrogen cyanide, and formaldehyde.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse explains that secondhand marijuana smoke can expose you to THC, the chemical that causes the high. Even though it’s in smaller amounts than smoking directly, it still gets into your system, especially in enclosed spaces.

Can You Get High Just from Smelling Weed?

This is one of the most common questions people have. The short answer is,  it depends. If you're in a well ventilated area, you're less likely to feel anything. But if you're in a car, small room, or a party setting with poor air circulation, there’s a chance you might experience mild effects, especially if you're around heavy marijuana use for a long time.

According to this in depth guide on whether smelling weed can get you high, the risk of feeling high or even testing positive on a drug test increases in these situations. So yes, just being around marijuana smoke can lead to unexpected outcomes, even if you didn’t take a puff yourself.

Why This Matters for Families and Workplaces

If you have kids, elderly family members, or work in a professional environment, exposure to marijuana smoke raises important concerns. Children and older adults may be more sensitive to airborne chemicals. And in the workplace, passive exposure might affect drug testing or overall wellness, especially in industries where safety and clarity of mind are essential.

I remember a friend sharing, “I didn’t even smoke, but I was at a concert where everyone else did. The next morning, I felt lightheaded and anxious.” It’s a reminder that secondhand exposure is more than a passing inconvenience, it can affect how you feel physically and mentally.

What Should You Do If You Smell Weed?

You don’t need to panic. But it helps to be aware of your surroundings. Here’s what I do when I notice marijuana smoke nearby, 

Step away if possible

Getting fresh air helps lower your exposure quickly.

Open windows or turn on a fan

This works well at home or in a car when someone has been using weed.

Let others know

If you’re uncomfortable, it’s okay to ask people to step outside or avoid smoking in shared spaces.

Being mindful of your environment doesn’t mean you're being overly cautious, it means you're taking care of your health. And if you’re unsure about how much you’ve been exposed to, you might want to consult a professional.

When Should You Be Concerned

Most of the time, brief exposure to secondhand marijuana smoke won’t lead to serious health problems. But there are moments when you should pay closer attention, 

• If you start to feel dizzy, anxious, or “off” after smelling it
• If you’re pregnant or have a medical condition that can worsen with smoke exposure
• If you're subject to drug testing (yes, even passive exposure can sometimes result in a positive test)

According to the CDC, while research is still developing, it's best to limit exposure to marijuana smoke just as you would with tobacco.

How to Protect Your Space

Whether you’re at home, work, or traveling, it helps to set boundaries when it comes to marijuana use. Some steps I personally take, 

Talk openly with guests or roommates

Let them know your preferences about smoking indoors.

Use air purifiers

These help reduce lingering smoke particles in the air.

Educate your family

Especially if you have teens or younger kids, conversations about weed and secondhand exposure can make a real difference.

Final Thoughts

Secondhand weed smoke might seem harmless, but it's not always something you can ignore. From mild health effects to unexpected drug test results, smelling marijuana around others carries risks that more people should know about.

Next time you find yourself in a situation where weed is being used, stay aware, make choices that protect your comfort, and don’t hesitate to learn more through trusted sources.