Why Wealthy Americans Are Turning to Cannabis for Stress Relief—Is It the New Wellness Craze?

Amid shifting attitudes and changing laws around cannabis use in the U.S., one unexpected trend has emerged: a significant rise in cannabis consumption among wealthier and more educated demographics.

While cannabis use has been steadily increasing across most population groups, recent studies show that higher-income households, particularly those earning $75,000 or more annually, and individuals with college degrees are leading the charge in the surge.

According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville, cannabis use in these affluent demographics has more than doubled between 2013 and 2022. In contrast, cannabis use among teenagers—often a focal point of concern—has remained steady, showing no significant increase over the same period.

The study, which analyzed data from 543,195 individuals as part of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, points to a broader cultural shift in how cannabis is perceived, particularly among wealthier and more educated groups. What was once viewed largely as a recreational or countercultural drug has now evolved into a lifestyle and wellness product for many in higher-income brackets.

As cannabis becomes more mainstream, its use for purposes like stress relief, anxiety management, and even sleep improvement is gaining traction among professionals and educated individuals. This trend mirrors the broader wellness movement, where products like CBD oils, edibles, and cannabis-infused wellness treatments are marketed as alternatives to traditional forms of stress relief, like alcohol or prescription medications.

The pressures of modern life—high-stakes careers, financial responsibilities, and maintaining work-life balance—are often cited as factors contributing to the increased cannabis use in wealthier households.

As these individuals seek ways to manage stress without resorting to more harmful substances, cannabis offers a perceived middle ground between recreational indulgence and health-conscious self-care.

Another key factor driving the rise of cannabis use in this demographic is its growing acceptance in professional and social settings. Once considered taboo, using cannabis has become more socially acceptable in many circles, with legal dispensaries catering to a sophisticated clientele seeking premium products.

The ongoing wave of cannabis legalization across the U.S. has also made it easier for individuals in higher-income brackets to access and experiment with the drug. As of 2023, cannabis is legal for medical use in 38 states and for recreational use in 24 states, creating a booming market that serves a wide variety of users.

Cannabis use in the U.S. has risen from 7.59 percent to 15.11 percent between 2013 and 2022, according to the study. This trend is directly linked to legalization, as the stigma surrounding cannabis fades and more states open up legal markets. Affluent users, in particular, have embraced cannabis as part of a broader shift toward wellness and alternative forms of relaxation.

While cannabis use has surged among adults, particularly in wealthier groups, it has not seen a corresponding rise among teenagers. According to the same study, cannabis use among individuals aged 12 to 17 has remained largely unchanged, even as access to the drug has become easier.

This raises interesting questions about the success of prevention and education programs aimed at younger users. It also suggests that legalization and broader social acceptance of cannabis may not automatically lead to increased use among teens, as many feared. Instead, this demographic appears to be more resistant to the changing landscape, focusing on other social trends or being influenced by parental guidance and school-based prevention programs.

The rising popularity of cannabis in affluent circles reflects a broader cultural shift toward alternative wellness solutions. As cannabis continues to be destigmatized and more research emerges about its benefits for stress relief, anxiety, and even physical recovery, its role in the wellness industry will likely continue to grow.

However, this increasing use also comes with a need for more research on the potential long-term health effects of regular cannabis consumption. While the drug has been shown to help with stress and pain management, questions remain about its potential impacts on mental health, particularly when it comes to issues like psychosis and cognitive function.

As researchers continue to explore these effects, it’s clear that cannabis is no longer just a recreational drug. For many in higher-income households, it has become an essential part of their lifestyle—a tool for navigating the demands of modern life while prioritizing personal wellness.

Is cannabis the new go-to wellness tool for stress relief among the affluent?