Have you ever found yourself at a doctor’s appointment, already feeling a little nervous, and then-bam-you’re hit with that laundry list of super personal questions about your healthcare history? I’m sure many of us have had similar experiences: from cringing through awkward health history stuff, to trying desperately to remember your current medications, or even fibbing a little about how frequently we exercise. 

But what about when it comes to the moment when we’re asked about cannabis, smoking, or drug use? Suddenly, it feels as though a spotlight flips on, and it’s centered directly on you. You don’t want to disclose with your provider that you’re using cannabis, for fear of what they’ll say. Perhaps you have already experienced feelings of shame, or been on the receiving end of a judgmental reaction from a healthcare professional, and would rather not go through that again.

Let’s talk about why this happens.

Cannabis-Use Stigma in Healthcare: Yes, It’s Still A Thing

You would think with cannabis being legal (in some form) in almost all the states, there wouldn’t be so many judgmental attitudes from others, right? Well, despite medical legalization in 40 states (and recreational in nearly half!), there is still a prevalent presence of stigma surrounding the use of cannabis-products. And what’s contributing to this? It’s been shown that throughout countries such as Canada and the United States, there is a severe lack of medicinal cannabis education within the healthcare community, especially amongst healthcare trainees. 

Without proper cannabis education, people tend to rely on outdated stereotypes and judgment. This creates shame that keeps many folks from being open about their cannabis use. But, how did cannabis end up with such a bad reputation in the first place?

Where Did This Stigma Come From? 

Cannabis has a pretty wild history, in the sense that it was originally very versatile in nature. Throughout different cultures, cannabis was recorded to be used in ancient China, Greece, within the Islamic empire, and even recorded to be used in the 1500s in South America. In the form of hemp, cannabis has been used to make rope, clothing, paper. Even as seeds for animal feed, or oil as a vehicle for paint. However, things started to really change in the early 20th century during the Cannabis Prohibition. Back then, buzzwords such as “marijuana” or the “jazz drug” became popularized, mainly to stoke anti-immigrant or racist fears. These terms ignited many negative stereotypes associated with Mexican immigrants, as well as Black Americans, trying to paint the plant as an evil foreign drug that makes you “lazy”.

How Can We Combat Stigma (and Get the Right Facts)?

Now you may be wondering, is there anything that we can actually do about this? Absolutely!

Here are some tips on how to help you and your loved ones get informed and challenge some of the myths and stereotypes revolving around cannabis: 

• Find a cannabis-informed healthcare provider: 

• • • Did you know there’s a whole directory of NJ healthcare providers who are listed within the state’s Cannabis Regulatory Commission? These are providers who come with up-to-date information regarding cannabis-use, and can work with you based on your healthcare needs

• Check your sources:

• • It’s totally possible that online social media platforms can provide a lot of biased and incorrect information! Look for info from legit places– think, .gov or .edu sites, and not just Instagram or Facebook reels. 
• Don’t be afraid to consult with employees at your dispensary:
  • If you’re already shopping at spots like BluLight Cannabis and Jane’s Joint, chat with the staff! Many dispensaries now lead with education, so they are totally open to answering your questions and exploring which products are right for you and your needs. 
• Finally, consider working with a cannabis-informed psychotherapist: 
  • If you ever felt judged or misunderstood while unpacking your discomfort with a therapist, you might want to seek out someone who works from a “cannabis-informed” perspective. These mental health professionals know how to meet you where you are– without the judgment. 

What To Expect From Cannabis-Informed Psychotherapy

So, what’s it actually like to see a cannabis-informed therapist? There are definitely a ton of benefits. 

Here are some things you can expect: 

• You get to talk openly in a totally non-judgmental space with a therapist who has your best interests at heart.
• You’ll develop additional coping strategies to help manage symptoms of acute anxiety, depression, or stress– so that you’re not stuck coping all on your own.
• You’ll collaborate with a therapist who prioritizes the use of a holistic approach to therapy, who also understands the importance of mind body wellness.
• You’ll be working with someone who not only was trained to know the ins and outs of cannabis, but also helps you weigh benefits and possible risks, all tailored to your personal experience. 

In short; it’s all about feeling understood, supported, and empowered as you figure out what works best for you and your well-being.