The rise of “cannamoms,” mothers who use cannabis, is reshaping parenting narratives. Traditionally associated with counterculture, cannabis is becoming a part of mainstream conversations, especially among parents.
This shift reflects broader changes in societal attitudes towards cannabis and highlights the diverse ways in which it is being integrated into daily life. This article explores how cannamoms use cannabis to cope with parenting stress.
Reasons for the Growing Trend
The use of cannabis by mothers is growing, as it helps them unwind after a stressful day. This is especially true when moms have to handle many things, such as parenting, household chores, office work (if any), etc.
According to a Harris Poll research from 2023, 37% of American women over the age of 21 are currently using cannabis. Moreover, around 74 million children under the age of 17 are living in the US. When you do the math, it won’t take a lot of time to understand that many of these women are mothers.
Several factors are contributing to this increasing number of cannamoms. The legalization of cannabis in many regions has made it more accessible and socially acceptable. This legal shift is accompanied by growing recognition of cannabis’s potential therapeutic benefits. For many moms, cannabis offers relief from anxiety, chronic pain, and other ailments, providing a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals.
Cannabis can help some parents manage the stresses of daily life, offering a sense of relaxation and improved mood. This benefit can be particularly appealing to mothers juggling multiple responsibilities. As the stigma around cannabis use diminishes, more moms feel comfortable exploring its potential benefits.
The influence of social media also plays a significant role. Online communities provide a platform for cannamoms to share their experiences, tips, and support. These communities foster a sense of belonging and normalize cannabis use among mothers.
Another reason behind the increasing cannabis use is the versatility it offers. Both cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are available in a wide range of options, including drinks, gummies, pills, oils, etc. This gives mothers many options to choose from that blend well with their daily lives.
Consider an example where a mother usually gets very little time to relax. In that case, a THC drink can be an ideal solution as it can kick in fast and help the mom to unwind quickly. She can then also sober up fast through hydration or eating food. This will allow her to incorporate THC into her daily routine without any hassle.
How Cannabis Impacts Different Parenting Styles
Cannamoms incorporate cannabis into their parenting styles in various ways. Some use it to enhance mindfulness and presence with their children. Cannabis can promote a sense of calm, allowing parents to engage more fully in activities and conversations. This approach aligns with the principles of conscious parenting, which emphasizes awareness and connection.
Other moms find that cannabis helps them manage the physical demands of parenting. The plant’s analgesic properties can alleviate aches and pains, making it easier to keep up with energetic children. For those with medical conditions, cannabis provides a way to cope without relying on stronger medications that may have undesirable side effects.
Cannabis can also facilitate creativity and playfulness, enriching the parent-child relationship. Some mothers report that cannabis helps them think outside the box, coming up with new games and activities. This creative boost can enhance the quality of time spent with children, fostering a positive and engaging environment.
Many mothers are already using cannabis, and they say that it is helping them get better at parenting. A WESH news article mentions the experiences of these mothers. One mom says that using it allows her to tune in, not to tune out. With cannabis, she is able to become more emotionally available to her children.
Another mom said that her family was able to see the positive changes in her due to this. She was feeling more relaxed and was able to maneuver her daily activities with ease. Moreover, she was more present when with her family and children.
While there are many positive effects that CBD can offer, it all depends on the quality of the product. For instance, a good quality live resin can make it easier to get premium high. What is live resin, you may ask? Put simply, it is the ingredient of any product that contains concentrated cannabinoids.
According to Drink Delta, it is derived from the natural resin of the cannabis plant and is known for its potency and purity. Cannabis is flash-frozen after the harvest to lock in its freshness. This reduces the chances of losing delicate compounds of the plant that are usually lost with other extraction methods. Thus, it helps keep the extract fresh, concentrated, and pure.
Social and Cultural Effects of Cannabis Use by Moms
The emergence of cannamoms is shifting societal perceptions of both motherhood and cannabis. This trend challenges the traditional image of mothers as paragons of virtue and sobriety. By openly discussing their cannabis use, cannamoms contribute to a broader dialogue about the realities of modern parenting.
The visibility of cannamoms helps to dismantle stereotypes about cannabis users. These moms demonstrate that cannabis use can be compatible with a responsible and fulfilling lifestyle. Their stories highlight the diversity of cannabis users, moving beyond outdated notions of the “lazy stoner.”
This cultural shift is also influencing how cannabis is marketed and perceived. Brands are increasingly recognizing the potential of the “mom market” and tailoring products to meet their needs. From edibles to topicals, there is a growing range of options designed with parents in mind. This targeted marketing reflects a broader acceptance of cannabis in everyday life.
However, it is still important to analyze its benefits and risks for any mother who is consuming CBD. For instance, using it during pregnancy can be a bad idea because of the risks.
Analysis of an NCBI study shows that endorsement of beliefs about the benefits of marijuana during pregnancy and breastfeeding is wrong. These benefits are counterintuitive to clinical evidence. Parents and Latinos showed stronger trends of valid beliefs, albeit moderate ones.
Challenges and Criticisms Faced
Cannamoms navigate a complex landscape of legal, social, and familial challenges. Despite legalization in many areas, cannabis use remains a contentious issue. Mothers may worry about potential legal consequences, especially in regions where cannabis laws are still strict. Child protective services and custody disputes can also be sources of concern for cannamoms.
Mothers who use cannabis may face criticism from other parents, educators, and even family members. This judgment often stems from deeply ingrained stereotypes and misconceptions about cannabis use. Overcoming this stigma requires ongoing advocacy and education.
However, the good thing is that some mothers are fighting back. In fact, one such woman has also written a book on it, in which she shares her personal experience. She strongly believes that cannabis has helped her become a better mom and that she has done nothing wrong by using it.
Similarly, a group of cannamoms in St. Louis, Missouri, is also fighting back on the topic of CBD use. Although recreational cannabis use has become legal in Missouri in 2022, the stigma around its use persists. This group of like-minded cannamoms is spreading information about why mothers use CBD or THC and how they help them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Have Parenting Roles Changed Over Time?
These days, parents’ joint obligations are given more weight. With both moms and dads actively involved in childcare, education, and domestic duties, gender roles are changing. This is a good sign as it may give some relief to mothers, especially those who also have a professional life to manage.
What Are The Psychosocial Effects Of Cannabis?
In extreme circumstances, using cannabis regularly or almost regularly might raise your risk of developing schizophrenia and psychosis. Those with a personal or familial history of mental health difficulties are more prone to experience these situations, especially male teens and young adults.
How Do Different Parenting Styles Affect Mental Health?
Children who grow up with strong parental role models are more likely to be independent, cooperative, responsible, well-adjusted, and mentally sound. Children raised in authoritarian households often experience feelings of being devalued and are susceptible to anxiety, depression, social disengagement, and issues with self-worth.
The rise of cannamoms marks a significant shift in the landscape of parenting and cannabis use. This trend reflects broader changes in societal attitudes and highlights the diverse ways in which cannabis is being integrated into daily life. Cannamoms are challenging stereotypes, advocating for their choices, and creating new narratives around motherhood and cannabis.
