^Cannabis has many different possible effects. Some strains are apparently good at controlling anxiety. At least, Cannanidiol, derived from cannabis is, if I am getting that right. But I totally understand what you mean.
For me, definitely never again any NBOMe.
Diphenhydramine got me interested in the "real thing". I was per my stupidity and advice of another youth in my youth trying to get drunk, when no alcohol was available. It is very eerie, and with a horrible hangover. But then I got interested in altered states more than alcohol. So although I will never repeat it, it was sort of my gateway drug, after alcohol.