Cannamoms: challenging traditional stereotypes
In recent years, there has been a growing trend of mothers using cannabis, either for medicinal or recreational purposes. These women, known as "cannamoms," are challenging the traditional stereotypes associated with cannabis use and motherhood. Despite the stigma that surrounds cannabis use, there are many reasons why being a cannamom can have a positive impact on both her mother and her family.
Photografy: Dakota Corbin
First and foremost, many cannabis users use cannabis for medicinal purposes. Whether it's to alleviate chronic pain, manage anxiety or depression, or alleviate the symptoms of a chronic illness, cannabis has been shown to be an effective treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. For cannabis moms who are struggling with these issues, cannabis can be a lifesaver, providing relief from symptoms that might otherwise prevent them from being the best parents they can be.
In addition to its medicinal benefits, cannabis can also be a great way for cannabis growers to relax and unwind. Raising children can be stressful, and many mothers find that cannabis can help them de-stress and recharge. Whether it's by smoking a joint or using a cannabis-infused bath bomb, cannabis can be a great way for cannamoms to take a break and focus on their own wellbeing.
Furthermore, many cannamoms find that cannabis helps them to be more present and engaged with their children. By reducing stress and anxiety, cannabis can help cannamoms to be more patient and attentive to their children's needs. Additionally, some mothers find that cannabis helps them to tap into their creative side, making them more imaginative and playful with their kids.
Of course, as with any substance, it's important for cannabis moms to use cannabis responsibly. This means being mindful of dosage, choosing safe and legal products, and never using cannabis in a way that could put themselves or their children in danger. But for those who use cannabis responsibly, being a cannabis can have many positive benefits.
Another important aspect of being a cannabis mom is the sense of community and support that it can provide. In recent years, there has been a growing movement of cannabis growers who are coming together to share their experiences and offer each other support. By connecting with other cannabis moms, women can find a sense of belonging and understanding that can be difficult to find in mainstream parenting communities. Finally, being a cannabis mom can be an important way of challenging the stigma that still surrounds cannabis use. By being open about their use of cannabis, cannabis moms can help to break down stereotypes and show that cannabis users can be responsible, caring parents. This can be especially important for mothers who have been marginalized in other ways, such as those who are part of the LGBTQ+ community or who come from low-income backgrounds.
In conclusion, while there is still a lot of stigma surrounding cannabis use, there are many reasons why being a cannamom can have a positive impact on both the mother and her family. From providing relief from medical issues to helping mothers relax and unwind, cannabis can be a valuable tool for parents who are looking to be the best versions of themselves. By being responsible and mindful in their use of cannabis, cannabis users can show that being a responsible parent and a cannabis user are not mutually exclusive. And by coming together as a community, cannabis users can help to challenge stereotypes and create a more inclusive and accepting society.
Sources:
Staniforth, J. (2021). An increasing number of mothers are using cannabis to help them parent. As they come out of the 'green closet', they're hoping to shift the stigma. BBC.
https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20230206-are-stay-at-home-dads-becoming-more-common
LittleIrishBabyBoy. (2022). What's a cannamom?. Quora.
https://www.quora.com/Whats-a-cannamom
Mora, J. (2022). 'A joint for mom': the phenomenon of cannamoms. La Nación.
Fischer, A. (2021). 'CANNAMOMS': THE WOMEN WHO EDUCATE THEIR CHILDREN BASED ON THE CONSUMPTION OF MARIJUANA. EDITORIAL TELEVISA SA