Cannabis is viewed far more favorably today than in the past. According to Pew Research, nearly 9 in 10 U.S. adults believe cannabis should be legal for either medical or recreational use. This shift in perception stems from several factors, including the belief that cannabis is no longer dangerous. Many people see it as safer than tobacco, and some view it as a natural way to ease chronic pain, improve sleep, or reduce symptoms associated with chemotherapy.
However, these positive associations can make it easy for individuals to overlook the potential for misuse. While more people now meet the criteria for cannabis use disorder (CUD), fewer are seeking treatment. In fact, recent analyses show that the percentage of individuals with CUD receiving help declined from roughly 19% in 2003 to about 13% in 2019.
At Pura Vida Recovery, we believe it’s essential to understand why this shift is happening and what barriers prevent people from seeking support. By identifying these obstacles, we can meet individuals where they are and bridge the gap, ensuring that those struggling with cannabis use disorder know where to turn for help.
Changing Perceptions and Normalization
One key factor is shifting cultural attitudes. As more states legalize cannabis and public perception of risk declines, many individuals view their use as benign or socially acceptable rather than as a medical or behavioral issue. When something feels “normal” or “harmless,” it’s harder to view it as a problem that requires help.
Ambivalence and Readiness to Change
Another major barrier: many individuals with CUD simply aren’t ready to quit. In recent national data, about 34% said they weren’t ready to stop using, and nearly 15% believed they could manage their use without treatment. This ambivalence is understandable, as cannabis often carries less stigma than other substances. However, untreated CUD can still lead to problems over time.
Awareness, Access, and Affordability
Lack of awareness about where to go for help remains a major challenge. In one study, roughly 38% of people with CUD said they didn’t know where to seek treatment. Practical barriers such as cost, insurance coverage, and service availability complicate the process further. Nearly 19% reported they couldn’t afford treatment or had no insurance. For many, the pathway to care simply isn’t viable.
Fear of Consequences and Stigma
Although cannabis has become more socially accepted in many circles, stigma still persists for those whose use becomes problematic. In particular, around 29% of individuals with CUD feared treatment might negatively impact their job or career. Others held negative views of treatment itself. For people balancing employment, family, or recovery concerns, these fears can stall action.
Systemic and Clinical Gaps in Treatment
There are also systemic issues. Clinical trials indicate that while behavioral therapies show benefit for CUD, overall abstinence and long-term success rates remain modest. Moreover, treatment services have traditionally focused more on substances like alcohol or opioids, meaning CUD-specific programs may be less available or less well known.
Why This Matters for Families and Caregivers
For families and loved ones, this trend can be concerning. When someone you care about meets criteria for CUD but declines help, it may feel like a refusal of care. Recognizing the barriers above can help you approach the situation with understanding rather than frustration. Engaging with supportive, non-judgmental resources can also open doors when the time is right.
How Pura Vida is Making a Difference
At Pura Vida Recovery, we believe in a multi-pronged approach. We provide education and outreach, helping individuals and families understand what CUD is, and that needing help doesn’t mean failure. Our team works hard to reduce practical barriers, such as by offering clear pathways, transparent cost options, and insurance verification.
Additionally, we frame care as confidential, compassionate, and oriented toward well-being (not punishment). Our clients get to focus on themselves, heal from past experiences, discover new hobbies and pastimes, and improve their overall health and well-being. It’s a wonderful opportunity to become “whole” again. And finally, we have tailored programs that meet the individual needs of our clients so that the care they receive is relevant and effective.
Treatment for Cannabis Use Disorder in Santa Rosa, CA
Fewer people seeking help for cannabis use disorder doesn’t mean fewer people need help. Rather, it suggests a misalignment between the increasing prevalence of CUD and a decreasing engagement with treatment. By understanding the various hurdles, we can better align the path to care.
For anyone concerned about their cannabis use, the most important step is simply acknowledging there’s a question worth asking: “Am I ok with this pattern of use, or is change possible?” When the answer tilts toward change, expert help and supportive recovery resources can make a meaningful difference.
Pura Vida Recovery is here for you when you are ready to create a new path forward. Contact us today 707-879-8432 or fill out our online contact form and one of our team members will be in touch!
