Can Cannabis Impact Wellness? What Malta Foodies Should Know
The article explores the growing recognition of cannabis addiction, highlighting its impact on health, daily life, and Malta's food and wellness culture. Cannabis use disorder, affecting about 3 in 10 users according to the CDC, can disrupt essential aspects of well-being, including mindful eating and social dining, which are central to Malta's lifestyle. With THC levels in modern marijuana products significantly higher than in the past, the risk of dependency has increased, potentially counteracting Malta's movement toward fitness, balanced diets, and longevity. Effective treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing, along with community support programs, offer pathways to recovery. Malta’s vibrant dining scene can play a role in promoting healthier alternatives by offering nutrient-rich meals, mocktails, and educational events on nutrition and mental health. As Malta continues to explore cannabis legislation, awareness and proactive measures within the food and wellness community can support a balanced and holistic approach to health.
Breaking the Myth: Cannabis Addiction and Its Impact on Health and Lifestyle
In recent years, the conversation around cannabis has shifted significantly, especially as more regions legalize its recreational and medicinal use. This includes parts of Europe, where attitudes toward marijuana are evolving. However, amidst this growing acceptance, a persistent myth remains: that cannabis is not addictive. Dr. Smita Das, an addiction psychiatrist at Stanford University, stresses that this misconception can have serious consequences.
“Cannabis is definitely something that someone can develop an addiction to,” Dr. Das explains. The condition, known as cannabis use disorder, is more common than many realize, affecting about 3 in 10 people who use marijuana, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
As Malta’s wellness and food culture embraces a more holistic approach to physical and mental health, it’s essential to understand the risks associated with cannabis use and how it can impact daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.
Recognizing Cannabis Use Disorder
The effects of cannabis on daily functioning can vary significantly from person to person. One key indicator of cannabis use disorder is interference with daily life, health, or relationships. For example, if someone finds it difficult to focus at work, maintain a balanced diet, or nurture personal connections due to marijuana use, these are warning signs.
Over the years, cannabis has also become more potent. In the 1960s, marijuana contained less than 5% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the compound responsible for its psychoactive effects. Today, THC levels in cannabis products can reach 40% or higher, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. This increase in potency raises the likelihood of developing dependency, especially with frequent use.
Cannabis use disorder is diagnosed using the same criteria as other substance use disorders, as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). These criteria include needing larger amounts to achieve the same effect, experiencing withdrawal symptoms, and spending excessive time acquiring or using the substance.
The Levels of Cannabis Addiction
Cannabis use disorder can range from mild to severe. Meeting just two of the DSM criteria in the past year is considered a mild form of the disorder, while meeting six or more signals a more severe condition. According to the most recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 7% of people aged 12 and older had cannabis use disorder in 2024, with most cases classified as mild.
What makes marijuana addiction particularly tricky is that it doesn’t affect everyone the same way. For some, regular use might have no noticeable impact. For others, it can lead to significant disruptions in daily life, including unhealthy eating habits or neglecting physical activity—both of which are vital components of a healthy lifestyle.
What This Means for Malta’s Food and Health Culture
In Malta, where food and community play a central role in daily life, the effects of cannabis addiction could disrupt essential pillars of well-being. For instance, a strong food culture often promotes mindful eating and social dining, which can be negatively impacted by substance dependency. Cannabis use disorder may lead to poor dietary choices, irregular eating patterns, or isolation from family and friends during meals.
Additionally, Malta’s growing movement toward fitness and longevity—evident in the rise of plant-based diets, yoga studios, and wellness retreats—encourages a balanced and conscious approach to health. Cannabis overuse could counteract these efforts by impairing motivation, focus, and overall physical health.
Getting Help for Cannabis Dependency
The good news is that effective treatments for cannabis use disorder are available. Dr. Das highlights several approaches, including motivational interviewing, a counseling style aimed at helping individuals identify their own reasons for change. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is another powerful tool, helping people shift negative thought patterns and develop healthier habits.
In Malta, where community and peer support are highly valued, group programs like Marijuana Anonymous or similar initiatives could be particularly beneficial. Even informal support networks, such as family or friends who prioritize a healthy lifestyle, can provide encouragement to those seeking recovery.
Digital platforms are also gaining traction. For instance, a Reddit group founded by Dave Bushnell, a retired creative director, offers a safe space for individuals struggling with cannabis addiction. With 350,000 members, it’s clear that online peer support can be just as impactful as in-person groups.
For food enthusiasts and restaurateurs in Malta, fostering a culture of mindfulness and balance can further promote recovery and well-being. Restaurants can support this by offering wholesome, nutrient-rich meals, mocktail options, and educational events on nutrition and mental health.
Why Awareness Matters
As Dr. Das points out, “Just because something’s legal doesn’t mean it’s safe.” This sentiment is particularly relevant as Malta continues to explore cannabis-related legislation. By recognizing the risks of cannabis use disorder and promoting healthy alternatives, the island’s vibrant food and wellness community can play a key role in supporting a balanced lifestyle.
Whether it’s through mindful dining, fitness, or mental health awareness, Malta’s journey toward holistic well-being serves as a reminder that health is about more than what’s on your plate—it’s about creating a life that nourishes the mind, body, and soul.