There is still a lot of stigma around the world about using cannabis. Especially of public perceptions and judgments specifically towards parents who choose to consume. Parents should feel comfortable and not be afraid to utilize an herb that can make them feel better, emotionally and physically. This does not mean they are a “stoner” or a “pothead”, in fact 54% of parents in North America are utilizing cannabis, with over 30% have children under the age of 18. If you are using cannabis responsibly it is a great option for parents struggling with many issues. Anxiety, frustration, and mood enhancement are things that many parents struggle with and cannabis could potentially decrease their severity and help control them completely. With certain strains of cannabis, it can also help parents be more active and creative with their children, which ultimately will make family life a lot more enjoyable.
Many parents also deal with chronic pain or other chronic conditions that are not seen with the naked eye. This does not mean they do not exist, and often, these conditions can negatively impact parenting. Parents who suffer with pain can experience irritation, less patience, and little to no desire to be active among other issues. First treatment options for these individuals are usually pharmaceuticals, which come with many other negative side effects that can be a lot worse than the symptoms themselves. Parents have reported that cannabis use has provided them with a better quality of life allowing them to manage their pain better and be more engaged with their children and with family activities.
We also need to take the time to properly educate our children about cannabis. This does not mean enable them to use it but teach them the proper precautions needed with cannabis use. When taken responsibly it can be harmless, but very beneficial. Teach them how the cannabinoids react in our bodies and that the plant has many different variations that help alleviate many conditions. It is important to ensure all cannabis products are always kept out of reach of children, especially edibles that may look like snacks to a child. We need to help them understand if not taken properly, consuming cannabis has many risks.
There is a growing number of consumers looking for more therapeutic benefits from cannabis, than wanting to “get high.” Attitudes and acceptance to cannabis use with parenting is growing. Most parents socially accept a glass of wine or a bottle of beer as a form of “stress relief” and some do so in front of their children. 52% of adults prefer to replace their alcohol consumption with cannabis, yet alcohol is responsible for nearly 77, 000 hospitalizations with 1.9% ending in death. Those who have tried cannabis are more acceptable to usage than those who have not. Whether a parent utilizes medical cannabis for medical or recreational purposes, every adult deserves to medicate responsibly with cannabis if they decide that is their best option, without judgement, so longs as they are doing so responsibly.