The scales are tipping: Americans are now reaching for cannabis more frequently than booze. A landmark shift highlighted by Carnegie Mellon University’s analysis of four decades of data reveals that daily or near-daily marijuana use has surpassed similar alcohol consumption levels in the U.S. for the first time in 2022. Finally, now more than ever, it’s okay to be high.
In a historic turn, daily marijuana users numbered approximately 17.7 million in 2022, overtaking the 14.7 million Americans who drank as frequently. This surge marks a significant change from 1992, where daily cannabis users were a mere 900,000 compared to 8.9 million daily drinkers.
This pivotal moment is more than numbers—it’s a cultural shift towards accepting cannabis not only as a recreational ally but as a healthier, therapeutic alternative to alcohol.
We’re all for it and have been using cannabis to help us medicate, relax, connect, and play for years. That’s a huge part of why we created Mesobis gomitas—so you can tap into those energies anytime and never feel like you’re missing out on something else.
Experts suggest that the increasing acceptance of cannabis, especially among younger demographics, is reshaping how generations view and utilize plant-based enjoyment over traditional alcohol.
Cannabis: Beyond Recreation
Cannabis offers more than just a high—it has a range of medicinal and therapeutic applications that alcohol simply can’t match. From pain relief to anxiety reduction, the health benefits of cannabis are vast and varied. As the stigma around cannabis dissipates, more individuals are discovering its potent potential not just for pleasure, but for improving quality of life.
Sure, alcohol acts as a social lubricant, but it often comes with ‘hang-xiety,’ alcohol can sometimes feel like a next-day mistake. Cannabis, on the other hand, can often boost sleep quality, and leave you feel refreshed—not depleted.
When it comes to health, the risks associated with cannabis are considerably lower than those linked to alcohol. Alcohol use is associated with a slew of health issues, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and negative impacts on mental health. Cannabis, by contrast, offers a safer profile with fewer long-term health risks and less potential for addiction.
Physical Health Benefits of Cannabis
Cannabis has numerous therapeutic benefits that can improve physical health. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective treatment for chronic pain conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. Cannabis can also help reduce nausea and vomiting, which hey, might come in handy if you accidentally over-indulge on alcohol.
Additionally, cannabis has shown promise in managing symptoms of multiple sclerosis, reducing muscle spasms and pain. The plant’s compounds, particularly cannabidiol (CBD), have been found to support cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and reducing arterial inflammation. Unlike alcohol, which is a known carcinogen, cannabis has not been conclusively linked to increased cancer risk when used in moderation.
Mental Health Benefits of Cannabis
Mental health is another area where cannabis shines. Its anxiolytic properties make it a natural choice for those struggling with anxiety and stress. Strains high in CBD can help promote relaxation and calm without the psychoactive effects of THC. For people dealing with depression, cannabis can provide a mood lift and help with motivation, though it’s important to use it mindfully and in conjunction with other treatments if necessary.
Cannabis is also beneficial for sleep disorders. The sedative effects of certain strains can help individuals fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restful night, making it a valuable alternative to prescription sleep aids, which often come with a host of side effects. Check out our Dream gomitas if you’re looking for the best sleep ever.
When Is It Okay to Be High?
This is entirely lifestyle-dependent. Wanna wake and bake as soon as you get up? Or with your morning stretch sesh? It’s okay to be high in the morning. Morning rituals set the tone for the day, and incorporating cannabis can transform these moments into something truly special.
Our Joyful sativa gomitas are perfect for energizing your mornings—whether you’re gearing up for an adventurous hike, indulging in some poolside relaxation, or embarking on a creative endeavor. For those seeking balance throughout their day, our Balanced gomitas blend THC and CBD in equal measure, ideal for a harmonious start with morning yoga or a refreshing bike ride.
What about family gatherings or social events? Most gatherings often revolve around some kind of alcoholic beverage option, but cannabis offers a better alternative. With our Chill gomitas, you can navigate the festive season with your family with much more calm, or make that office work party a bit more enjoyable.
Of course, please only get high at work if that’s cool. We’re not suggesting you start getting stoned on the clock if your line of work doesn’t support that. But if it does, more power to you.
Breaking the Stigma
Despite the shifting trends, cannabis still carries a stigma in many circles. It’s time to challenge these outdated views and recognize cannabis for what it truly is—a beneficial plant with a rich cultural and therapeutic background. By discussing and promoting the responsible use of cannabis, we can help normalize its use and integrate it more fully into society as a respected and valued substance.
The increasing preference for cannabis over alcohol reflects a broader cultural shift towards healthier, more conscious choices. As we continue to explore and understand cannabis’s vast potential, it’s clear that feeling good doesn’t have to come with high health costs. It’s okay to be high, and it’s time we embrace cannabis not just as a recreational choice, but as a significant part of a holistic, health-conscious lifestyle. Join the movement, and let’s break the stigma, one gomita at a time.
