7 myths about swapping alcohol for weed

If you limit or avoid alcohol, you may be keen to explore other avenues, including Cali Sobriety - a term used to describe those who use weed but no other substances - including booze! 

When it comes to recreational substances, there’s often a prevailing belief that weed is “better for you” than alcohol. However, swapping one for the other isn’t always as straightforward as it seems and whilst we're not here to judge. Here are seven common myths about replacing alcohol with weed that you might want to think about. 

1.   Weed is always safer than alcohol

While it’s true that excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a range of health issues like liver damage and alcohol dependence, portraying weed as entirely risk-free is misleading. Weed can have negative effects on mental health — particularly in predisposed individuals — and long-term heavy use can lead to dependency.

How you choose to consume it also matters. For example, smoking cannabis poses the same risks as smoking tobacco. Some people also believe weed is harmless because it’s derived from a natural plant, but long-term use is linked to various health risks, including: 

• Increased risk of heart disease and stroke
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Rapid heart rate
• Severe vomiting
• Gum disease
• Chronic bronchitis and lung irritation 

2.   Weed doesn’t affect your driving

One dangerous misconception is driving under the influence of marijuana is safer than driving drunk. However, research suggests driving while high significantly impairs judgment, coordination and reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents. Just like alcohol, it’s essential to avoid driving under the influence of weed to ensure your safety and the safety of other road users.

3.   Weed doesn’t cause addiction

While cannabis may not be as physically addictive as alcohol, it can still lead to psychological dependence. You can develop a tolerance to weed over time, requiring larger doses to achieve the desired effects.

It’s estimated that approximately 10% of users will become addicted over time. Withdrawal symptoms — including irritability, insomnia and decreased appetite — can also occur in regular users who abruptly stop consumption.

4.   Weed doesn’t impact mental health

Contrary to popular belief, weed use can worsen mental health issues, particularly in vulnerable individuals. While as many as 40% of individuals with alcohol use disorder will develop anxiety, regular marijuana use can also cause such feelings. Chronic use could make you more likely to experience paranoia, psychosis, depression or social anxiety. 

There is an especially strong link between cannabis use and schizophrenia. While there’s a lack of research on women, 30% of schizophrenia cases in young men could've been prevented if they avoided cannabis. While some people use weed to alleviate stress or depression symptoms, it’s crucial to recognise that self-medicating with any substance can have unintended consequences.

5.   Weed doesn’t affect productivity

Another misconception is that using weed doesn’t impair productivity. While some users claim weed enhances their creativity or focus, research suggests acute intoxication can impair memory, attention and decision-making skills. Chronic use may also lead to motivation loss and decreased overall productivity, especially if it interferes with daily responsibilities.

6.   Weed doesn’t pose legal risks

With the growing legalisation of marijuana in many regions, some individuals assume using weed is entirely legal and consequence-free. However, marijuana laws vary widely between states and even counties. In some places, weed possession, cultivation and distribution remain illegal, and they can result in fines, arrest or even imprisonment. Even in areas where weed is legal, there are often restrictions on where and how you can consume it.

7.   Weed doesn’t interact with medications

Just like alcohol, weed can interact with certain medications, leading to potentially harmful effects. THC — the psychoactive component of marijuana — can affect the metabolism of various drugs in the body. This can alter their effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects.

The truth about cannabis use

While swapping alcohol for weed may seem like a healthier choice for some, it’s essential to recognise the potential risks and misconceptions associated with cannabis use. Like any recreational substance, moderation and informed decision-making are key to minimising harm and maximising benefits.

Written by Mia Barnes

Mia is a freelance writer and researcher with a passion for women’s health and wellness. Mia is also the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of the healthy living online publication, Body+Mind Magazine