Why do people use weed? The answer has evolved dramatically over the past decade. What once was primarily about 'getting stoned' has now shifted towards a more wellness-oriented approach. Over time, the cannabis culture changed. We used to see stoner culture, especially when cannabis legalization wasn’t as rampant.

T-shirts adorned (sometimes bedazzled) with pot leaves, the Rastafarian flag slapped on literally anything, and people smoking bongs. That was it. That was the culture surrounding cannabis or 'pot,' as they called it. Oh, and Cheech and Chong, of course. They’re actually still part of the cannabis community and great activists today.

Much like the evolution of alcohol consumption, the primary motives for using cannabis have shifted. People now seek the potential wellness benefits of cannabis, using it for relaxation, pain relief, and enhancing overall well-being, rather than solely for recreational intoxication.

Medical marijuana has gained acceptance as a legitimate treatment for various conditions, including chronic pain and anxiety. Additionally, it is being explored as an option in substance abuse treatment, offering an alternative to more harmful drugs. While smoking marijuana remains common, many are turning to alternative methods of consumption such as edibles, tinctures, and vaporizers to avoid the adverse effects of smoking.

The Evolution of Cannabis Culture

Now that legalization is sweeping every state in America one by one (sometimes two by two and more), the stoner culture is shifting to a wellness-centric, cannabis culture. This cultural shift, along with legalization, is global. This cultural evolution focuses on properly utilizing cannabis for each individual person’s needs. It’s looking at cannabis through the lens of wellness and health, and the 4/20 stoner vibe is turning into an “everyone is welcome”, free of judgment and wellness-focused kind of vibe.

Cannabis for Stress Relief

Some individuals use cannabis to help them relax after a long day at work, which they consider part of their wellness routine. While both cannabis and alcohol can provide relaxation, they interact with the body differently. This shift towards cannabis wellness is evident in how people now consume it for holistic benefits.

The Endocannabinoid System

Our bodies have an endocannabinoid system that interacts with cannabinoids, the compounds found in cannabis. So far we have identified two different kinds of receptors - CB1 and CB2 to be specific. There are over 100 known cannabinoids, but THC and CBD are the most well-known. These receptors change their function when cannabinoids like THC and CBD are present.

Cannabis and Anxiety

When cannabis is consumed, cannabinoids interact with the body's CB1 and CB2 receptors within the endocannabinoid system. Research tells us:

The endocannabinoid system plays a vital role in regulating fear and anxiety.
There is an endocannabinoid - called 2-AG - that activates the same receptors as THC. It also reduced anxiety-inducing connections in certain parts of the brain according to a 2020 study.

Does Cannabis Cause Anxiety?

This can happen with novices when THC is overconsumed. If you consume too much THC, you might feel anxious and paranoid. So, consuming too much cannabis might lead to anxiety by way of too much THC. Some studies suggest that low amounts of THC may help reduce anxiety, whereas higher amounts might increase feelings of anxiety. This is why it’s important to always “start low and go slow” until you learn your dose.

Some users report experiencing anxiety when consuming THC, especially with traditional edibles. Fast-acting cannabis products may help in managing dosage more effectively. Additionally, incorporating CBD can be beneficial. CBD has the ability to reduce the anxiety-driving effects of THC, so if you suffer from anxiety, try to find products that include CBD as well. This approach can be particularly helpful for those dealing with mental health conditions, as managing anxiety levels is crucial for overall mental well-being.

Managing Overconsumption

A bad experience can turn people off to cannabis. If you think you've consumed too much THC, consider the following tips that some users find helpful:

Consuming CBD, as some believe it may counteract THC effects
Chewing black peppercorns, anecdotally reported to reduce THC’s intensity
Eating a high-fat meal
Taking deep breaths and waiting it out
Taking a shower or resting

These options can help you along. Knowing that it will pass and no one has ever died from a cannabis overdose. Remember, the enjoyment weed brings can vary greatly depending on dosage and individual tolerance.

Cannabis for Sleep

Speaking of going to sleep, it’s one of the most popular reasons why people smoke weed! Certain cultivars, commonly known as strains, can uplift and energize you, while others relax your body and mind. Perfect to prepare you for a good night’s rest. That’s good news for people who have trouble falling asleep. It’s thought that cannabis can decrease the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. Some tout CBD as having sedative properties while THC is proclaimed to be “wake-inducing”, but some research suggests lower doses of CBD may keep you alert. Cannabis inspires restful sleep for many people

Cannabis for Pain

Some people use cannabis to manage chronic pain and seek pain relief. While more research is needed to fully understand its effects, many users prefer it over opioids, which are known to have serious side effects and a high potential for addiction.

There are countless stories of highly successful, intelligent, motivated, and otherwise happy people getting hooked on opioids. This story too often ends with tragic transitions to drugs like heroin. All because of something like chronic back pain. People are seeking help and the illusion of safety in prescribed opioid medications makes the habit easier to justify. The CDC reported over 70% of American overdoses in 2019 involved opioids.

New Frontier Data reported nearly ⅔ (66%) of medical cannabis consumers describe pain management as their primary reason for consumption. Nearly half (48%) of those consumers replaced prescription medication and (41%) replaced over-the-counter medication with cannabis.

Cannabis Wellness

Stigmas surrounding cannabis are decreasing as more people explore its potential benefits. Discussions about cannabis use are becoming more common, including in medical and personal settings. Many users cite wellness as a key reason for their consumption. As scientific research continues to advance, the understanding of how people consume cannabis and its effects is expanding.

Disclaimer: The content in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or legal advice. Cannabis product legality and availability differ by state. Verify your local laws before purchasing or using cannabis products. Consult a healthcare professional before use.

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Final Thoughts

The reasons people use cannabis have evolved significantly, shifting from a primary focus on recreational use to a more wellness-oriented approach. This transformation has led to a broader acceptance of cannabis, supported by scientific research and a growing understanding of its health benefits. Companies like Good Feels are at the forefront of this change, providing high-quality cannabis products that cater to the diverse needs of modern consumers, from stress relief and better sleep to pain management and overall wellness.

FAQs

How has the reason for using weed changed over the past decade?

The primary reason for using weed has shifted from getting stoned to a more wellness-oriented approach. People now use cannabis for stress relief, pain management, and overall health benefits.

What characterized the stoner culture of the past?

The stoner culture of the past was marked by imagery such as T-shirts adorned with pot leaves, the Rastafarian flag, and people smoking bongs. Iconic figures like Cheech and Chong were also prominent in this culture.

How has cannabis culture evolved with legalization?

With widespread legalization, cannabis culture has evolved from a stoner-centric image to a wellness-focused community. This shift emphasizes the health benefits of cannabis and promotes a judgment-free, inclusive environment.

How can cannabis help with stress relief?

Cannabis can help relieve stress by providing relaxation and calmness, similar to unwinding with a few beers but with fewer severe side effects. It engages the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating stress.

Why Do People Use Weed?