Surprising Backlash Against Cannabis: What’s Fueling America’s Changing Views?

New data shows a surprising shift in America’s view of cannabis—what’s behind it?

Cannabis has dominated headlines for years, with more states legalizing it for both medical and recreational use. You might expect that public opinion would be growing more favorable, especially with all the research highlighting its benefits. But here’s a twist: a Gallup poll published this week reveals that Americans are actually viewing cannabis more negatively than they did just a year ago. It’s surprising, isn’t it? Why, in a time of increased legalization and scientific support, are perceptions moving in the opposite direction? Let’s take a closer look at the data, examine the misconceptions, and try to piece together what’s really going on.

https://news.gallup.com/poll/648821/americans-views-marijuana-effects-worsen.aspx

The Numbers: A Surprising Shift

The latest Gallup poll from July 2024 reveals some pretty startling statistics:

• 📉 54% of Americans now believe marijuana negatively impacts society.

• 📊 51% think it has a negative effect on most users.

• 🧠 Yet, despite these concerns, cannabis is still viewed as less harmful than seven other substances, including cigarettes and alcohol.

These numbers paint a picture of a significant change from just a year ago. Back then, public opinion was much more balanced, with many people seeing the positive effects of cannabis. Now, it seems the tide has turned, and more Americans are leaning towards the negative. But why? What’s driving this shift? And is it really justified?

Visual Breakdown: What the Data Shows

Marijuana Viewed as Least Harmful Among Eight Substances

In this first chart, we see a comparison of how harmful Americans perceive various substances to be. Interestingly, marijuana ranks as the least harmful, with only 26% viewing it as “very harmful.” This is significantly lower than the 79% who view cigarettes as very harmful. This data suggests that, despite the growing negativity towards marijuana, it is still seen as a safer option compared to other legal substances like alcohol, e-cigarettes, and chewing tobacco.

Change in Perceived Positive Effect of Marijuana on Most Who Use It, 2022 vs. 2024

The next chart shows a significant decrease in the percentage of Americans who believe marijuana has a positive effect on most people who use it. From 2022 to 2024, this belief dropped by 10 percentage points across the general population. The most significant decline was seen among older adults aged 55 and over, with a 12-point drop. This shift suggests a growing skepticism or concern about the benefits of cannabis, particularly among those who have not tried it themselves.

Slim Majorities in U.S. Now Say Marijuana Negatively Affects Society and Most Users

The third image highlights the overall shift in public opinion, showing that a slim majority of Americans now believe marijuana has a negative effect on both society and individuals who use it. In 2022, public opinion was almost evenly split, but by 2024, 54% of Americans viewed cannabis negatively in terms of its societal impact, and 51% believed it negatively affected most users. This change is striking and raises questions about what might be influencing these perceptions.

The Stigma: Still Holding On

For many, cannabis has been nothing short of a revelation. It’s helped people manage chronic pain, ease anxiety, and get better sleep. The benefits are well-documented in scientific research, and countless personal stories back them up. Yet, despite all of this, the stigma around cannabis just won’t go away.

It’s almost baffling. Why, in 2024, do so many still hold onto outdated or misleading views about cannabis? This stigma doesn’t just affect how people think—it shapes policy, healthcare, and even personal decisions. How many people who could benefit from cannabis are hesitating, simply because they’re afraid of being judged? It’s a sobering thought.

Education: The Key to Changing Minds?

So, how do we turn this around? It seems clear that education is more important now than ever. This isn’t about pushing any agenda—it’s about sharing the facts and real-world experiences. Sure, cannabis isn’t without risks, but when you compare it to other substances like cigarettes or alcohol, it’s much less harmful. That’s not just a belief; it’s a fact, backed by research and supported by health professionals.

In my book, The Doctor Approved Cannabis Handbook, I’ve tried to lay out this information as clearly as possible. For the general public, and also hoping that clinicians and journalists are learning too. My aim is simple: to help people make informed decisions about their health, based on evidence, not fear. But is that message getting through? Are we doing enough to shift the narrative?

Where Do We Go From Here?

Here’s the thing: changing public perception isn’t something one person can do alone. It’s going to take all of us—patients, doctors, researchers, advocates—working together. We need to share our stories, our knowledge, and, most importantly, the facts. Only by doing that can we hope to paint a complete picture of what cannabis can really do.

As we move forward, it’s so important that we keep the conversation going, and fight misinformation and confusion with lived experience and knowledge. We need to talk about the benefits, the risks, and everything in between—based on facts, not fear. Because if we don’t, who will?

The Big Question

So, what’s really happening here? Why are more people viewing cannabis negatively? Is it a reflection of reality, or are we being swayed by something else? The recent shift in public opinion raises more questions than it answers, and maybe that’s the point. Maybe it’s time to dig a little deeper, to challenge our assumptions, and to start a real conversation.

What do YOU think? 🌿📚 #CannabisScience #PublicHealth #EndTheStigma

My Take on This: