Today’s parents know just how stressful it is to raise kids. You’re often handling work, multiple schedules, and trying to monitor your children’s social media accounts and online activity all at the same time. With all this anxiety, parents often look for new ways to cope.
Today, there is a new wave of parents gravitating towards cannabis to cope with the stressors of parenthood.
How Cannabis Affects the Brain
Cannabis has many active components and chemicals that have effects on users. Its two major components are THC and CBD.
THC
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the chemical in cannabis that causes a psychological response in the brain. It is responsible for giving users that “high” feeling. Not all cannabis products have THC, but most inhaled cannabis does contain the chemical.
CBD
Cannabidiol (CBD) is another chemical found in cannabis. It’s been proven in multiple studies to reduce anxiety, making it an attractive option for stressed-out parents. CBD has also been shown to help with insomnia, chronic pain, and tobacco addiction. There are many CBD products available for purchase today. The best thing about these products is they reduce stress without provoking a high. Still, some CBD products do contain THC, so it’s important to read the label before use.
Does Cannabis Reduce Stress?
Many people turn to cannabis for its several health benefits. But it’s also been proven to be a great stress reducer. One study found that low doses of THC and any dose of CBD have been proven to decrease anxiety in users. If you’re going to use cannabis with THC, be careful not to take too much, as high doses of THC can actually increase anxiety.
Do Lots of Parents Use Cannabis?
Some parents may feel societal pressure not to use cannabis, or at least not to talk about their cannabis use. The simple fact is that cannabis is widely used across the country and the world, and there is currently a great movement to normalize it. More and more parents are speaking up about their cannabis use, too, making it easier for other parents to do the same.
The Pros and Cons of Parents Using Cannabis
While many parents are touting the benefits of cannabis use, it does have both a good and bad side.
Benefits of Using Cannabis as a Parent
- The main benefit of using cannabis is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Parents who use cannabis report being able to remain calm in stressful situations.
- Cannabis also helps people cope with the complicated emotions that come with parenting.
Disadvantages of Using Cannabis as a Parent
- Children of parents who use cannabis are more likely to use cannabis later in life.
- Cannabis use can reduce your ability to pay attention, make decisions, or react to emergencies.
- Nursing mothers should not use cannabis, as it can be passed through their breast milk to their children.
Whether you choose to use cannabis or not, you should always consume responsibly. You should always know the origin and dose of the cannabis you’re using. If you’re a parent, plan when you’re going to use cannabis so that it doesn’t affect your ability to parent.
