More and more, it seems cannabis use is moving out of the realm of taboo and into mainstream culture. Over a third of the United States allow for the sale of recreational marijuana, even more states have medicinal marijuana programs, and hemp has been completely legalized on the federal level. For decades now, marijuana has been making cameos in pop culture, and now with the popularity of non-intoxicating cannabinoids like CBD, even more people are being exposed to the cannabis plant and learning about its benefits.
Still, there are holdouts from the previous generation who just can’t get with it. What’s it like being a cannabis enthusiast with traditional parents who just don’t understand? What’s the best way to deal with anti-cannabis parents?
Not All Cannabis Gets You Stoned
Many older folks can’t separate cannabis from their idea of the unmotivated stoner they’ve picked up from anti-drug PSAs. However, most people who smoke marijuana are gainfully employed and live normal lives. Not to mention, many forms of cannabis are non-intoxicating—meaning they don’t even get you high to begin with. CBD, for example, is an extremely well-selling cannabis product that doesn’t alter users’ perceptions the same way THC does.
If you find CBD helpful in your day-to-day life but have disapproving parents who think you’re just doing drugs, it can be beneficial to explain the science behind CBD.
Explaining To Your Parents How CBD Works
An excellent place to start with a mom or dad who doesn’t know much about cannabis is the endocannabinoid system. They may be surprised to learn that our bodies naturally produce neurotransmitters, similar to the compounds found in hemp and marijuana, called endocannabinoids. These endocannabinoids send signals to the endocannabinoid receptors located throughout our brains and central nervous system to help regulate several functions of life, including memory retention, sex drive, appetite, sleep patterns, and mood.
When we consume marijuana or hemp, the cannabinoids found in the plant also trigger these receptors. THC, the ingredient in marijuana responsible for creating the infamous “high”, binds directly to the CB1 and CB2 endocannabinoid receptors. CBD, on the other hand, doesn’t fit so well in these neurotransmitter receptors. Instead, CBD loosely connects to the CB1 and CB2 receptors and influences the way they interact with the body’s naturally produced endocannabinoids. Scientists speculate that this key difference explains why THC and CBD have such dramatically different effects on humans.
If your anti-cannabis parents are skeptical of your CBD use, showing them the basic science behind how CBD works may change their opinion.
Comparing Cannabis And Alcohol
Interestingly, many of the older generation who don’t approve of cannabis use don’t have any problem with alcohol. While imbibing every now and then likely won’t harm you, extended alcohol use or binge drinking can quickly turn fatal. More than 70,000 annual deaths in the United States can be attributed to drinking too much, making alcohol one of the leading causes of untimely demise in the country. Compare this danger level to cannabis, which almost all health professionals agree doesn’t pose a risk of serious injury or death.
Mutual Respect And Understanding
It can be difficult when your parents disapprove of your cannabis use, especially if you use it medicinally to treat anxiety or pain. Conversations on the topic can often get emotional and heated. When having these conversations about marijuana or hemp with traditional parents, the most important thing to do is remain respectful. Generally speaking, your parents want the best for you, and even if their information isn’t correct, they’re rarely intentionally trying to upset your or harm you. By maintaining a respectful dialogue, you’ll stand a much better chance at changing their minds, than, if you get angry or write their concerns off completely.
