In recent years, a new trend called “Cali Sober” has gained popularity, particularly among millennials and Gen Z. Cali Sober, short for “California Sober,” refers to a lifestyle choice where individuals abstain from hard drugs and alcohol. They continue to indulge in cannabis use. You know, they still smoke weed and consume edibles.
The Cali Sober movement has many supporters, including some healthcare providers. However, it has also sparked debates about its effectiveness and long-term impact compared to going totally sober. In this blog, I will delve into the pros and cons of the Cali Sober movement. I will then contrast these with the benefits of complete sobriety.
Pros Of The Cali Sober Movement
As you might imagine, there are many arguments to go Cali Sober. Proponents of the movement cite its many benefits. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe marijuana to help you through your recovery from alcohol addiction. In fact, I have several close friends whose doctors have done exactly that.
The benefits of becoming Cali Sober include:
- Reduced Harm: Some argue that Cali Sober reduces the harm associated with hard drug and alcohol abuse. By abstaining from substances that are known to be highly addictive and harmful to physical and mental health, proponents argue that individuals can still experience some level of relaxation through cannabis use without risking severe consequences.
- Social Integration: Cali Sober individuals often find it easier to socialize in settings where alcohol is common. They can still partake in a form of substance use that aligns with their beliefs while avoiding the peer pressure associated with complete abstinence. This can foster a sense of belonging and reduce the feeling of loneliness that may be experienced by those sticking to complete sobriety.
- Reduced Stigma: Others say that Cali Sober helps reduce the stigma around sobriety. By offering an alternative to complete abstinence, they argue that it challenges the traditional views and opens up conversations about different paths to a healthier lifestyle.
- Marijuana May Support Addiction Recovery: In cases where heavy alcohol use is mingled with opioid addiction, marijuana may play a role in aiding addiction recovery. Studies have shown that marijuana use may reduce opioid use for pain management.
- Mindfulness & Stress Reduction: Incorporating pot into a recovery plan may assist some individuals in achieving a state of relaxation. This can be particularly useful during therapy or meditation sessions, where self awareness and reduced stress can help individuals address the underlying emotional issues driving addiction.
- Sleep Improvement: Sleep issues are common during alcohol withdrawal and early recovery stages. Marijuana has been known to have sedative effects. Better sleep can help improve overall well being and mood during the recovery process. You can read about The Importance Of Sleep In Addiction Recovery for more information on this topic.
The Cons Going Cali Sober
As with anything, there are reasons not to consider going Cali Sober. The most obvious of these is that a California Sober individual is still using drugs. This person is not sober. Using drugs of any kind can causes one to hang out with others who are similarly using. Birds of a feather flock together!
This can result in several issues including:
- Potential Slippery Slope: Critics of Cali Sober argue that allowing any form of substance use could be a slippery slope for individuals with a history of addiction. The use of cannabis, though considered less harmful, may still trigger a relapse for some, leading them back to harder drugs.
- Incomplete Recovery: While Cali Sober individuals avoid some harmful substances, they may miss out on the full benefits of sobriety. Complete abstinence allows for a clearer mind, better mental and physical health, and a chance for the body to fully recover from the damages caused by any past substance use.
- Ambiguous Boundaries: The concept of Cali Sober lacks clear cut guidelines. Different individuals may see it differently, leading to potential inconsistencies in their approach. This gray area can make it tough for individuals to maintain consistency and stability in their recovery journey.
The Benefits Of Complete Sobriety
The benefits of going entirely sober often outweigh the use of marijuana as a crutch to deal with other addictions. I believe the only exception to this is when marijuana is prescribed by a doctor. Outside of that, you are self medicating, and in my opinion, still suffer from a use disorder.
Complete sobriety offers many benefits. You can’t fully experience these benefits while you are still using mind altering substances. It’s that simple. A foggy mind will give you foggy results.
- Total Health Transformation: Complete sobriety offers a holistic transformation of physical, mental, and emotional health. It allows the body to heal and recover fully from the damaging effects of substances, leading to improved cognitive function, increased energy, and overall well-being.
- Enhanced Emotional Stability: Without the influence of any mind-altering substances, individuals in complete sobriety experience greater emotional stability. They learn to cope with life’s challenges without relying on substances, fostering personal growth and resilience.
- Empowerment and Self-Discovery: Complete sobriety empowers individuals to confront their fears, anxieties, and underlying issues without the crutch of substances. This self-discovery journey can lead to improved self-esteem, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of purpose.
Going completely sober is hard. Often, very hard. I get it! I’m not going to lie to you. But that it is so hard is also what makes it so worthwhile. I’ve heard it said that discipline is freedom. There is not freedom from substance abuse so long as you continue to self medicate. Period.
Final Thoughts
the Cali Sober movement has its merits, such as harm reduction and reduced stigma, but it also carries inherent risks and may not be for everyone. Complete sobriety, on the other hand, provides a comprehensive approach to healing and growth, offering numerous benefits for physical, mental, and emotional healing.
Ultimately, the choice between Cali Sober and going completely sober should be a deeply personal one, taking into consideration your unique circumstances, history, and goals for the future.
While there are some potential benefits of using marijuana in alcohol addiction recovery, it is essential to approach this topic with caution and awareness. The effects of marijuana can vary significantly from person to person. Its use as an aid in recovery should only be considered after an evaluation with a healthcare professional.
Moreover, marijuana is not a one size fits all solution, and it may not be suitable or effective for everyone. Some individuals may experience adverse reactions to marijuana, and its use may even hinder progress in recovery. Ultimately, the decision to roll marijuana into a recovery plan should be made under the guidance of doctors and specialists. They can help individuals weigh the potential risks and benefits to make informed choices on their journey towards lasting sobriety.
