Updated: March 12, 2021
Originally Published: May 29, 2018
As a mother of an adult child who has faced challenges with substance use disorders, I am deeply invested in advocating for addiction prevention and recovery resources. My focus now is on raising my younger children with an understanding of stress management and the importance of making informed, healthy choices. In addition, I hold a medical marijuana card.
Since my teenage years, I have battled migraine headaches that have varied in intensity and frequency. Throughout the years, I have tried an array of treatments, including preventatives, abortives, homeopathic options, narcotics, Botox, and even refrained from any medication, all while enduring unsolicited advice from anyone with internet access.
When a friend introduced me to a cannabis-infused brownie, my initial response was to decline. I had used marijuana in my youth, but as a mother, I believed that chapter of my life was behind me. However, as I found myself increasingly reliant on Vicodin to manage my pain, I recognized the potential risks of opiate use. I realized that if I continued down that path, my children would face more significant issues than simply having a mom who used a little marijuana for relief.
Once I set aside my outdated beliefs, I tried cannabis and experienced what the medical community has long recognized: it worked. To avoid relying on unregulated sources, I pursued the legal route and obtained my medical marijuana card. I firmly advocate for the legalization of cannabis for medicinal use, having witnessed the relief it provides to those suffering from severe ailments, including friends battling cancer.
Yet, I grapple with the contradiction of promoting a “just say no” message to my children while engaging in cannabis use myself. I understand the distinction between medicinal and recreational use, but I wonder if my children are mature enough to comprehend that nuance. Consequently, I find myself using cannabis discreetly.
In my teenage years, I would wait until my parents were away to sneak off to a friend’s house for a small purchase. Nowadays, I wait until I drop my kids at their various activities and head to the nearest dispensary, where options like edibles, oils, vapes, and even bath products are available. The days of discreetly stashing a bag in my pocket are long gone. Instead of grabbing snacks from a convenience store, I now indulge in a coffee from a drive-through.
One day, I plan to sit my children down and share the positive news about how I manage my migraine pain effectively. I will explain my belief that cannabis should be an accessible option for individuals with medical needs, while firmly stating that I do not want them to use it unless they are adults with similar requirements. Until that day arrives, I will continue to ask them if they are ready for practice, all while I have my own errand to run.
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Summary:
Navigating the complexities of medicinal cannabis use as a parent can be challenging, particularly when balancing personal health needs with the lessons imparted to children regarding substance use. Through personal experience, I have found effective ways to manage chronic pain while advocating for responsible use. It’s essential to approach these discussions carefully, ensuring that children understand the distinctions between medicinal and recreational use.