How Cannabis Can Make You A Better Dad

As attitudes and laws around cannabis continue to evolve, some fathers are finding that moderate, responsible cannabis use may actually help them be better parents. While it's important to note that cannabis affects everyone differently and should always be used legally and in moderation, here are a few potential ways it could positively impact fatherhood. 

Stress Relief

Parenting can be incredibly stressful. For some dads, cannabis may help take the edge off after a long day, allowing them to be more present and patient with their kids. While we don’t recommend vaping around your kids, puffing on a nice THCa disposable vape on the way home from work can be a great way to transition from a stressful work day to fun dad mode! 

Cannabis can potentially relieve stress through several mechanisms:

• Cannabinoid interaction: THC and CBD, the main active compounds in cannabis, interact with the endocannabinoid system in the brain. This system plays a role in regulating stress and anxiety.
• Cortisol reduction: Some studies suggest cannabis use may lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress.
• Muscle relaxation: The relaxing effects of certain cannabis strains may help reduce physical tension associated with stress.
• Distraction: Cannabis use might provide a mental break from stressors, allowing users to detach temporarily from worries.

Enhanced Creativity 

Cannabis is known to boost creativity in some users. This could translate to more imaginative playtime and problem-solving with your children.

Fun facts: here are some famous artist fathers who are known for using cannabis for creativity:

• Bob Marley (father of 11 children)
• Willie Nelson (father of 7 children)
• Paul McCartney (father of 5 children)
• Snoop Dogg (father of 4 children)
• Pablo Picasso (father of 4 children)
• Stephen King (father of 3 children)
• Woody Harrelson (father of 3 daughters)
• Dave Chappelle (father of 3 children)

Increased Empathy

Some report feeling more emotionally open and empathetic when using cannabis, potentially improving emotional connections with kids.

Empathy is a complex emotional and cognitive capacity that allows individuals to understand and share the feelings of others. At its core, empathy involves recognizing and comprehending the emotions someone else is experiencing, while also being able to see situations from their perspective. Empathy is considered a crucial component of emotional intelligence and plays a vital role in personal relationships, professional interactions, and broader social cohesion. 

Better Sleep

There is no doubt that we are all better versions of ourselves when we’re caught up on sleep.  A well-rested dad is often a more effective, energetic parent.

Cannabis can potentially aid sleep through several mechanisms, though its effects can vary significantly between individuals. The primary way cannabis may improve sleep is through its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating sleep-wake cycles.

THC, one of the main active compounds in cannabis, has been shown to have sedative properties and may help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. It can also increase the amount of time spent in deep sleep, which is crucial for physical restoration. A popular product for getting more restful sleep are indica gummies. 

CBD, another major cannabinoid, might help improve sleep by addressing underlying causes of sleeplessness such as anxiety or pain. It's thought to have a calming effect on the nervous system and may help regulate sleep patterns.

Some users report that cannabis helps them relax and unwind before bed, making it easier to transition into sleep.

Pain Management

For fathers dealing with chronic pain, cannabis could provide relief without the side effects of some prescription medications. Being a dad involves a lot of physical activity - from running around a park, to piggyback rides to playing catch out in the backyard. When we’re in pain, it makes it really difficult to do these activities with our kids. 

Cannabis can potentially help reduce pain through several mechanisms, primarily involving its interaction with the body's endocannabinoid system. This system plays a crucial role in regulating pain sensation, among other functions. To help with pain, you both can ingest cannabis through smoking/gummies, and you can use it externally in a cannabis cream and apply it directly to your skin for muscle aches and sore joints. 

The two main active compounds in cannabis, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), are believed to be responsible for its pain-relieving effects. THC binds directly to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and nervous system, which can alter pain perception and provide a sense of euphoria that may distract from pain. CBD, on the other hand, doesn't bind directly to these receptors but is thought to work by reducing inflammation and interacting with neurotransmitters.

Mindfulness 

Cannabis may help some users feel more present in the moment - a valuable trait when spending quality time with children. Whether cannabis can help us to meditate in our alone time, or help us to me more present during playtime with our kids, it is a useful tool for bringing us back to the here and now. 

It's crucial to emphasize that cannabis use comes with risks and legal considerations. It should never be used while caring for children or operating vehicles. Responsible use means moderation, being aware of local laws, and ensuring children don't have access to cannabis products.

Every parent must make their own informed decisions about cannabis use. While it may offer benefits for some, it's not for everyone. Open conversations with partners, healthcare providers, and fellow parents can help dads navigate this complex topic.

Remember, being a good father ultimately comes down to love, presence, and dedication - with or without cannabis.

About the Author

Greg Pilla is the COO of TribeTokes and the father to a three-year-old son and four-month-old daughter. He lives in the Greater NYC area with his family.