For decades, marijuana use has been shrouded in stigma, entangled in legal red tape and misunderstood by much of the public. But as science continues to pull back the curtain on cannabis, it’s becoming increasingly clear: marijuana is not the villain it was once made out to be. Marijuana use is more than just common, especially on college campuses; it is a deeply integrated part of student life.
Whether it is used to ease stress, improve sleep, unwind after a long day or just used for fun, cannabis has become a go-to for many students looking to manage the pressures of college life.
After surveying 30 students from the University of Rhode Island, the results were clear: 86.7% reported that they use marijuana, and 53.8% say they use it almost every day. Another 19.2% use it often, 19.2% use it occasionally and only a small portion of 10% say they do not use it at all. Medical use accounted for 3.3% of responses.
This data is not surprising, but it is telling. Cannabis use is widespread, and for the most part, students aren’t just using it to get high. For 60% of the students surveyed, marijuana use is seen as beneficial. Another 30% think it depends on the situation, and only 10% say it’s not beneficial at all. The majority of users seem to approach cannabis with a mindset of moderation and intentionality – using it to relax, sleep better or ease anxiety.
In my personal experience, I find cannabis helpful when used with a purpose. I am an extremely light sleeper; smoking before bed helps me stay asleep through the night. I also deal with clinical anxiety, and marijuana plays a significant role in helping me manage that. That said, I don’t use it when I have academic responsibilities. I know it doesn’t help me focus, so I make sure to use it at times that won’t interfere with my productivity – usually at night when I’m winding down.
I have always lived in a weed-positive environment. I grew up in New York City, where I would go downstairs and my neighbors would be smoking it up outside my building. My parents never tried to shelter me from it as I grew up but did educate me on when it is okay to use it and how to use it safely.
A lot of people worry about how it affects your brain, and for some people that may be the case. I have always been around it and the people I hang out with do choose to smoke often and they have not changed since starting to use it.
Cannabis is also often used as an alternative to alcohol on campus, especially at social gatherings. This is a positive shift in many ways. Marijuana tends to push for a more mellow, less chaotic environment. It seems to be viewed as a safer option; there are fewer risks of poor decision-making and behavioral issues that are more commonly associated with heavy drinking.
Still, cannabis isn’t without its drawbacks. It can impact motivation, concentration and mental clarity if used excessively. Like anything else, it’s all about balance. While some students report feeling more in control when using marijuana, others admit it can interfere with their academic performance if they’re not careful.
Marijuana use on campus isn’t going away – nor should it be villainized. With the right approach, it can be a positive part of student life. For many of us, it already is.
