TL;DR: Young Adults Turning to Cannabis for Sleep Raises Long-Term Health Concerns
Young adults are increasingly using cannabis as a sleep aid, but new research warns of its risks.
• 22% of young adults use cannabis or alcohol for sleep, with cannabis favored by 18%.
• Long-term use can degrade sleep quality by disrupting REM cycles and fostering dependency.
• Women, nonbinary individuals, and those facing stress or irregular lifestyles are the primary users.
Instead of cannabis, try healthier options like a Mediterranean diet or stress management techniques. In Malta, explore MELA AI to find restaurants offering sleep-friendly, nutritious meals. Prioritize sustainable, long-term wellness over quick fixes.
Cannabis Use for Sleep Among Young Adults: Shocking Trends and Health Concerns You Need to Know
Young adults are increasingly turning to cannabis to help them sleep, with nearly one in five admitting to using it as a sleep aid. A recent study by the University of Michigan sheds light on this growing trend and its potential consequences. While cannabis is often seen as a natural alternative to medications or alcohol, its long-term effects on sleep and overall health raise serious concerns. Let’s unpack what this research means for the younger generation, health experts, and anyone looking to improve sleep through healthier means.
What Did the Study Reveal About Cannabis Use for Sleep?
The data, sourced from the 2025 Monitoring the Future Panel Study, reveals that a staggering 22% of Americans aged 19 to 30 use cannabis, alcohol, or both to induce sleep. Of this group, cannabis appears to be the primary choice, with 18% opting for it compared to just 7% for alcohol. Even more striking, among those who had used cannabis in the past year, 41% stated that sleep was their primary motivation.
However, the study warns that cannabis can disrupt the quality of sleep over time. As Megan Patrick, the lead researcher, notes, “Using cannabis to get to sleep can backfire, disrupting the ability to stay asleep and negatively affecting sleep quality long-term.” The research raises red flags about dependency and the misconceptions surrounding cannabis as a harmless tool for better rest.
Who Is Using Cannabis, and Why?
The data also highlights intriguing demographic differences in substance use for sleep:
- Women are nearly twice as likely as men to use cannabis as a sleep aid.
- Individuals identifying as nonbinary or transgender are four times more likely to lean on cannabis for sleep compared to men.
- Black young adults are three times as likely as white peers to turn to alcohol for managing sleep.
One underlying cause is the prevalence of sleep issues among young adults, which may stem from the pressures of modern lifestyles, including overstimulation, stress, and irregular schedules. Cannabis, marketed as a “natural remedy,” has gained popularity as an accessible alternative to over-the-counter or prescription solutions.
How Dangerous Is Cannabis for Sleep?
Although cannabis may offer short-term relief in falling asleep, experts caution against its regular use for several reasons:
- Impaired Sleep Architecture: Cannabis disrupts REM sleep, a vital stage linked to memory and mental restoration.
- Risk of Dependency: Frequent use can lead to tolerance, requiring more of the substance for the same effect, ultimately fostering dependency.
- Undermining Long-Term Health: Poor quality sleep contributes to weakened immunity, diminished cognitive performance, and increased risks for chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular issues.
Smarter Alternatives to Sleep Problems
Relying on cannabis is far from the best way to address lack of sleep. Lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, and stress management techniques can profoundly improve sleep without the risks of dependence. Here’s how:
- Mediterranean Magic: Embrace a Mediterranean diet heavy in sleep-promoting foods like almonds, walnuts, oily fish, and cherries. These items are rich in melatonin, tryptophan, and omega-3s, all essential for regulating restful sleep cycles.
- Mindful Eating in Malta: Explore restaurants in Malta that serve dishes catering to health-conscious diners. Restaurants focusing on fresh, minimally processed ingredients can support overall well-being and better sleep.
What Can Restaurants and Chefs Do?
For restaurant owners and chefs, promoting healthy eating goes hand-in-hand with supporting better sleep. By incorporating sleep-friendly ingredients into dishes, restaurants can meet the growing demand for health-conscious options among diners. Examples include creating meals with ingredients like spinach, kiwi, whole grains, and herbal infusions.
Joining a health-focused platform like MELA AI not only distinguishes eateries as sustainability-conscious but also attracts diners searching for sleep-supportive food options.
What Should Consumers Look for When Dining Out?
Diners aiming to improve their sleep can make smarter choices when eating at restaurants:
- Scan the menu for meals featuring omega-3-rich fish like salmon or tuna.
- Opt for dishes loaded with leafy greens and nuts, key sources of magnesium to calm the nervous system.
- Request herbal teas, such as chamomile or lavender, for a calming finish to your meal.
Want to find restaurants integrating these elements in Malta? Use MELA CUISINES to discover dining spots prioritizing nutritious and sleep-friendly options.
Final Thoughts on Young Adults Turning to Cannabis for Sleep
While cannabis may appear to offer a quick fix, its long-term implications cannot be ignored. The trend reflects deeper societal challenges such as chronic stress, poor diets, and disrupted routines. Addressing these challenges should remain the priority, offering young adults sustainable solutions instead of temporary band-aids.
If you’re in Malta and interested in fostering well-rounded health through dining, explore how MELA AI connects diners to restaurants prioritizing well-being. Ultimately, investing in a balanced diet and mindful meal choices will always outweigh the fleeting effects of cannabis-induced sleep. Keep health, education, and longevity at the forefront of your choices.
Frequently Asked Questions on Cannabis Use for Sleep Among Young Adults
How widespread is cannabis use among young adults for sleep?
Cannabis use as a sleep aid is alarmingly common among young adults, with recent research revealing that nearly 18% of individuals aged 19 to 30 actively use cannabis for such purposes. This trend was understood through the University of Michigan’s Monitoring the Future Panel Study, where 41% of participants who had used cannabis within the last year admitted they did so primarily for sleep. Experts believe the popularity of cannabis stems from its marketing as a natural remedy for sleep, appealing to those seeking alternatives to pharmaceuticals or alcohol. However, while it may assist in falling asleep in the short term, cannabis can negatively impact sleep quality over time by disrupting REM sleep and increasing dependency risks. Health professionals encourage young adults facing sleep issues to consult medical advice rather than self-medicating with cannabis or alcohol.
What are the potential health risks of relying on cannabis for sleep?
Using cannabis to aid sleep can have various health implications. Though it might assist in falling asleep faster initially, long-term use disrupts sleep architecture, particularly the REM sleep phase, which is critical for cognitive restoration and memory consolidation. Persistency in use can also lead to dependency and tolerance, requiring higher consumption for the same effect, which raises notable addiction concerns. Poor sleep quality resulting from cannabis use is associated with increased risks of weakened immunity, impaired cognitive function, and chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular issues. Experts urge individuals to explore healthier, sustainable methods for improving sleep, such as adopting a nutrient-rich diet, engaging in relaxation techniques, and maintaining consistent sleep schedules.
Are there demographic differences in substance use for sleep?
Yes, significant demographic variances exist in the use of substances like cannabis and alcohol for sleep. For instance, women are nearly twice as likely as men to turn to cannabis to fall asleep. Individuals identifying as nonbinary or transgender are four times more likely to seek cannabis for this purpose compared to men. Furthermore, Black young adults are three times more likely than their white counterparts to turn to alcohol for managing sleep disturbances. These differences often reflect varying cultural contexts, gender-specific stressors, and accessibility to alternatives. Public health initiatives could benefit from addressing these disparities to generate targeted interventions for promoting healthier sleep practices across diverse demographics.
What are healthier alternatives to cannabis for improving sleep quality?
Improving sleep doesn’t have to involve cannabis or alcohol. Sustainable alternatives include lifestyle changes such as:
- Nutritious Diet: A Mediterranean diet, rich in sleep-promoting nutrients such as melatonin, magnesium, and omega-3s, can enhance sleep quality. Foods like almonds, cherries, walnuts, and oily fish are particularly effective.
- Relaxation Practices: Incorporate mindfulness, meditation, or yoga into daily routines to reduce stress and encourage restful sleep.
- Consistent Sleep Schedule: Maintain regular sleep and wake times to regulate your body’s internal clock.
For those dining out, choosing restaurants that prioritize health-conscious meals can significantly improve sleep quality. Platforms like MELA AI help diners discover establishments in Malta that offer nutrient-packed, sleep-friendly meals, paving the way for healthier dining habits.
Why might restaurants be interested in promoting sleep-friendly ingredients?
Restaurants serving sleep-promoting dishes can tap into the growing demand for health-oriented dining. By incorporating ingredients like spinach, kiwi, whole grains, and omega-3-rich fish, they cater to diners seeking nutritious meals with added benefits like better sleep. Additionally, platforms such as MELA AI offer restaurants in Malta opportunities to boost their health-focused branding and recognition through the MELA sticker. This attracts a niche customer base focused on well-being while fostering increased visibility and trust in the community.
How does MELA AI help diners improve their sleep through better dining options?
MELA AI connects health-conscious diners with restaurants across Malta offering nutritious meals, including those that promote sleep. With its extensive directory of eateries dedicated to well-being, diners can easily identify menus featuring ingredients known for supporting restful sleep, such as nuts, oily fish, and calming herbal teas. By using MELA AI, consumers not only find restaurants prioritizing health but also support businesses committed to sustainability and mindful dining, making it a win-win for both personal health and the hospitality industry.
Does alcohol pose similar risks for sleep as cannabis?
Like cannabis, alcohol is occasionally used as a sleep aid, but it carries its own risks. While alcohol can initially sedate the body into sleep, it disrupts critical sleep phases like REM and increases nighttime awakenings. Furthermore, alcohol dependency can develop when used habitually for sleep, leading to adverse effects on overall health. Among the young adults surveyed, alcohol use for sleep was less common than cannabis (7% compared to 18%), but its potential for long-term damage is no less concerning. Exploring safer alternatives, such as consistent bedtime habits and anti-inflammatory diets, is crucial for mitigating these risks.
Are there sleep-friendly dining establishments in Malta?
Yes! Many restaurants in Malta cater to health-conscious diners by incorporating nutritious, sleep-friendly ingredients into their menus. Diners can easily locate such establishments through MELA CUISINES, a specialized section of MELA AI. These restaurants focus on offering sustainable, minimally processed foods such as omega-3-packed salmon, magnesium-rich leafy greens, and calming herbal teas, all supportive of better sleep. Whether you’re a tourist exploring Mediterranean cuisine or a local seeking well-rounded meals, MELA AI is your gateway to dining for improved health and sleep.
Could using cannabis or alcohol for sleep affect long-term mental health?
Misusing cannabis or alcohol for sleep may heighten risks for mental health concerns. Disrupted sleep quality can lead to mood disorders, including anxiety and depression. Substance dependency poses additional psychological challenges, such as impaired coping mechanisms and stress management abilities. Recent studies suggest that inadequate REM sleep caused by regular cannabis or alcohol use directly impairs emotional regulation and memory processing. Health experts advise prioritizing therapy and natural remedies, such as adopting relaxation techniques, over substance reliance for sleep to safeguard long-term mental health.
Where can restaurant owners in Malta find resources for promoting health-oriented dining?
Restaurant owners in Malta aiming to stand out in the health-conscious dining market can find valuable support through MELA AI. The platform offers branding packages, including essential directory listings and premium showcases that highlight their commitment to well-being. By incorporating nutritious, sleep-friendly ingredients and earning the prestigious MELA sticker, these establishments appeal to diners seeking quality dining experiences. Furthermore, MELA AI provides comprehensive insights into consumer trends in healthy eating, empowering restaurant owners to craft menus and marketing strategies that align with popular demand.
About the Author
Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur. Throughout her startup experience she has applied for multiple startup grants at the EU level, in the Netherlands and Malta, and her startups received quite a few of those. She’s been living, studying and working in many countries around the globe and her extensive multicultural experience has influenced her immensely.
Violetta Bonenkamp’s expertise in CAD sector, IP protection and blockchain
Violetta Bonenkamp is recognized as a multidisciplinary expert with significant achievements in the CAD sector, intellectual property (IP) protection, and blockchain technology.
CAD Sector:
- Violetta is the CEO and co-founder of CADChain, a deep tech startup focused on developing IP management software specifically for CAD (Computer-Aided Design) data. CADChain addresses the lack of industry standards for CAD data protection and sharing, using innovative technology to secure and manage design data.
- She has led the company since its inception in 2018, overseeing R&D, PR, and business development, and driving the creation of products for platforms such as Autodesk Inventor, Blender, and SolidWorks.
- Her leadership has been instrumental in scaling CADChain from a small team to a significant player in the deeptech space, with a diverse, international team.
IP Protection:
- Violetta has built deep expertise in intellectual property, combining academic training with practical startup experience. She has taken specialized courses in IP from institutions like WIPO and the EU IPO.
- She is known for sharing actionable strategies for startup IP protection, leveraging both legal and technological approaches, and has published guides and content on this topic for the entrepreneurial community.
- Her work at CADChain directly addresses the need for robust IP protection in the engineering and design industries, integrating cybersecurity and compliance measures to safeguard digital assets.
Blockchain:
- Violetta’s entry into the blockchain sector began with the founding of CADChain, which uses blockchain as a core technology for securing and managing CAD data.
- She holds several certifications in blockchain and has participated in major hackathons and policy forums, such as the OECD Global Blockchain Policy Forum.
- Her expertise extends to applying blockchain for IP management, ensuring data integrity, traceability, and secure sharing in the CAD industry.
Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).
She is the founder of Fe/male Switch, a startup game that encourages women to enter STEM fields, and also leads CADChain, and multiple other projects like the Directory of 1,000 Startup Cities with a proprietary MeanCEO Index that ranks cities for female entrepreneurs. Violetta created the “gamepreneurship” methodology, which forms the scientific basis of her startup game. She also builds a lot of SEO tools for startups. Her achievements include being named one of the top 100 women in Europe by EU Startups in 2022 and being nominated for Impact Person of the year at the Dutch Blockchain Week. She is an author with Sifted and a speaker at different Universities. Recently she published a book on Startup Idea Validation the right way: from zero to first customers and beyond, launched a Directory of 1,500+ websites for startups to list themselves in order to gain traction and build backlinks and is building MELA AI to help local restaurants in Malta get more visibility online.
For the past several years Violetta has been living between the Netherlands and Malta, while also regularly traveling to different destinations around the globe, usually due to her entrepreneurial activities. This has led her to start writing about different locations and amenities from the POV of an entrepreneur. Here’s her recent article about the best hotels in Italy to work from.
