Jesse Lonis has once again caught the attention of the poker community for a reason off the tables. One of the top players today, the American posted a message on social media explaining why he decided to quit using marijuana. Additionally, he described the impacts the drug had on his life over the years.
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Thus, Lonis stated that prolonged use does not cause consequences as immediate as other addictions. Still, the professional believes the effects appear over time. “You won’t hit the same rock bottom as alcoholism or other addictions. But one day you’ll wake up and entire parts of your life will simply be… lost. It’s the silent killer”, he wrote.
In addition, Jesse Lonis had already commented on the subject earlier. In early May, the player revealed he had been 65 days without using marijuana, ending a habit he maintained daily from ages 12 to 30. At the time, he explained that the main motivation for the decision was family.
Thus, when responding about the change, Lonis made clear the reason for the choice. “For me and my children”, he said. Father of three daughters, the American explained he wanted to be fully present in moments with his family and felt that cannabis use harmed that connection.
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Change also brought benefits to poker career
However, beyond his personal life, Jesse Lonis stated that the decision had positive effects on his performance at the tables. According to the player, he began to maintain more focus during long poker sessions and gained greater clarity in decision-making. Even so, he acknowledged that he still seeks more discipline due to ADHD.
Nevertheless, the adaptation process was not simple. Lonis said he faced weeks of intense night sweats and started having very vivid dreams again, something that had practically disappeared during the period he frequently used marijuana. Additionally, he stated that he felt more anxiety when he was still using the substance.
Finally, while competing in the main tournaments of the global circuit, Jesse Lonis continues to face this challenge off the tables. Currently, the American has two WSOP bracelets and more than US$ 31 million in live earnings, but now seeks to build a new phase in his personal life as well.
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