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Disclaimer: This essay explores the intersection of daily marijuana use and parenting. While it addresses children, I assure you that my use of pot and my kids never overlap. They don’t see or hear me say, “It’s time for a smoke!” nor do they catch a whiff of my elegant, ergonomically-designed cannabis device (which I assure you, I’m not being paid to promote). They’re blissfully unaware that marijuana plays a role in my parenting approach.
So, let’s put those concerns to rest. I’m not blowing smoke in my child’s face while I munch on snacks and debate film adaptations with a glazed expression. I’m a responsible parent navigating the complexities of daily life.
How Daily Marijuana Use Eases My Anxiety
Like many parents in this pandemic era, I find myself at home more than ever. When the day starts, I have two choices: smoke a bit of pot or take prescribed benzodiazepines, which come with a slew of side effects, including impaired motor skills and cognitive function. Not ideal for anyone, especially a parent.
I experience severe anxiety, not just a touch of it. I battle generalized anxiety disorder, which makes me hyper-aware of every little thing, often spiraling into panic, feeling overwhelmed by issues from my past or future. Thankfully, marijuana helps alleviate that anxiety. It doesn’t just quiet it; it completely dissipates those feelings. I smoke not to get high, but to regain my sense of normalcy and rationality. It allows me to be a calmer, more patient parent.
Improving Focus with ADHD and Managing Chronic Pain
As someone with ADHD, I often become hyper-focused, losing touch with everything around me. My husband could greet me, and I might not even notice. However, daily marijuana use helps me strike a balance. It enables me to engage more with my kids, whether we’re building Lego structures or enjoying family games. It turns out that a bit of pot can make me a more present and attentive parent.
Additionally, I deal with chronic pain, and marijuana acts as an effective remedy. It alleviates discomfort like nothing else, even more so than CBD. When anxiety and physical pain collide, my trusty marijuana device is there to help.
Daily Marijuana Use Enhances My Life
The benefits of my daily marijuana use are vast. It reduces my migraines, enhances my enjoyment of music, and makes chores feel less daunting. I find myself yelling less at both my kids and my husband, and I engage in more creative activities. Ultimately, I feel like a better version of myself—not in a forced, overachieving way, but in a more relaxed and happy manner.
However, I recognize that I am fortunate. My race and appearance afford me a privilege that allows me to smoke without fear of scrutiny or intervention. Many people of color face disproportionate challenges and judgments related to marijuana use. For instance, stories circulate about mothers whose children are taken away simply for testing positive for marijuana, despite no harm being done. This systemic inequality is deeply unfair.
While I enjoy the benefits of daily marijuana use, many BIPOC women do not have the same luxury and are often forced to explore other, less effective coping mechanisms. It’s crucial for me to acknowledge this disparity and work towards supporting policies that decriminalize marijuana and uplift marginalized communities.
I am grateful for my ability to navigate my parenting journey with the help of marijuana, and I remain aware of the social responsibilities that come with my privilege.