Don’t we just love it when two friends get together over the weekend, get drunk, and have the time of their lives? At times, however, those blessings may overflow. In Canada, the average hospitalization rate due to alcohol in 2022–2023 was 262 per 100,000 people. 

Especially in colder regions like Whitehorse. Like many places with harsh winters and limited social outlets, it has a unique culture where alcohol often becomes a way to cope with the long, lonely winters. 

In 2023, the Yukon saw about 144 litres of alcohol sold per capita. It is a stark reminder of how much it’s ingrained in the culture.

However, with the legalization of cannabis and the increase in awareness of its long-term impact, people are giving up alcohol for weed, And pot is becoming the next popular thing to get the buzz. 

According to a survey, 54% of people aged 18 and older living in the provinces reported not drinking any alcohol. 

So, how is weed actually helping alcoholics in Whitehorse overcome their dependence? Let’s break it down.

What are Dangers and Health Risks of Alcohol Use?

Alcohol dependence is a chronic disease that affects both physically and psychologically. While moderate drinking may not pose immediate risks, excessive consumption, whether in a single sitting or over a long period, can have serious and lasting consequences. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines several forms of excessive drinking, each with its own set of risks:

  • Binge drinking: This occurs when blood alcohol levels exceed 0.08%, typically after consuming around 4 drinks on a single occasion for women and 5 for men.
  • Heavy drinking: Defined as consuming more than 15 drinks per week for men or 8 drinks per week for women.
  • Alcohol use disorder (AUD): A more severe condition where individuals are unable to stop drinking despite the negative consequences it brings to their lives.

Health Risks of Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Affected Systems Potential Health Issues
Liver Liver disease, cirrhosis
Heart High blood pressure, heart disease
Brain Brain damage, memory problems, impaired decision-making
Immune System Weakened immunity, higher risk of infections
Cancer Risk Increased likelihood of liver, breast, esophageal, and throat cancer

Social and Behavioral Risks

Issue Examples
Accidents & Injuries Car crashes, falls, drowning
Violence Intimate partner violence, aggression
Mental & Cognitive Issues Memory loss, learning problems
Addiction Alcohol dependence, AUD
Life Expectancy Shorter lifespan due to health complications

Effects of Moderate Drinking

Effect Description
Dehydration Leads to headaches and dizziness
Hangovers Nausea, fatigue, and headache after drinking
Poor Sleep Disrupted sleep cycle, fatigue
Medication Interactions Alcohol may interfere with medications, causing dangerous side effects

How Cannabis Helps

In Whitehorse, cannabis is becoming an effective tool for those struggling with alcohol dependence. A recent study shows 44% of participants reduced alcohol use after starting medical cannabis, with 34% drinking less weekly. As an “exit” drug, cannabis offers a healthier alternative for breaking free from alcohol addiction.

  • Reducing Alcohol Cravings

One of the most challenging aspects of alcohol is the constant battle with cravings. Alcohol addicts often experience intense urges to drink, which can derail their recovery efforts.

Studies suggest that cannabis can help by interacting with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates many physiological processes, including mood and appetite. By influencing the system’s receptors, CBD can help reduce anxiety and stress, two major points that trigger alcohol cravings.

Research has suggested that CBD may reduce the rewarding effects of alcohol, making it less appealing to those in recovery.

  • Easing Withdrawal Symptoms

When someone tries to quit stimulants, they often face a range of withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and tremors. These symptoms can be so uncomfortable that they lead many to relapse and return to drinking.  

Weed, particularly CBD-dominant strains, has been found to alleviate many withdrawal symptoms. CBD’s anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties can provide relief, making the transition away from alcohol more manageable.

  • Lowering Relapse Rates

Relapse is a significant challenge for individuals recovering from addiction. Even after a period of sobriety, many people find themselves slipping back into old patterns of drinking due to stress, social pressure, or unresolved emotional issues. For alcohol, weed may help lower relapse rates by providing a healthier coping mechanism for these triggers.

By offering a safer alternative that provides relaxation and stress relief, cannabis can reduce the likelihood of returning to alcohol use.

Best Cannabis to Fight Alcohol Dependency

Just like alcohol, weed strains are different, and some may be more effective in combating alcohol dependence than others. When choosing cannabis for recovery, it’s important to consider the THC-to-CBD ratio and the effects each strain provides.

Strains Features Beneficial In Case of
High-CBD Strains
(e.g., Charlotte’s Web, Ringo’s Gift)		 – High in CBD, low in THC

– Calming, therapeutic effects

– No intoxicating “high”

 – Anxiety and stress relief

– Reducing alcohol cravings

– General relaxation
Balanced THC/CBD Strains
(e.g., Death Wedding Cake, Cannatonic)		 – Equal or near-equal balance of THC and CBD

– Provides relaxation and mood elevation

– Helps with withdrawal symptoms

 – Managing withdrawal

– Mild euphoria and relaxation

– Mood stabilization
THC-dominant Strains
(e.g., OG Kush, Girl Scout Cookies)		 – High in THC, psychoactive effects

– Intense therapeutic relief

– Helps with pain and sleep

 – Pain relief

– Sleep improvement

– Deep relaxation and sedation

It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider or cannabis specialist to find the strain that works best for your individual needs and recovery goals.

Should you Mix Cannabis & Weed?

Drinking alcohol and smoking cannabis together can intensify the effects of THC, the main psychoactive compound in weed. Alcohol increases THC absorption, which can cause a stronger high. While some people may enjoy this, others might experience uncomfortable side effects, commonly known as “greening out.” It’s symptoms include

  • Sweating
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

A 2015 study found that even a small amount of alcohol can significantly raise THC levels, enhancing its effects, regardless of whether the THC dose is low or high. 

If you’re not an experienced cannabis user, it’s best to avoid mixing alcohol and weed. If you do choose to mix them, take it slow and listen to your body to avoid any bad trip.

Real-Life Experiences in Whitehorse

While this all may sound wonderful in theory, real-life stories from those in Whitehorse bring a personal perspective to the issue. Many individuals in the city have turned to cannabis to help them with their alcohol dependence, and some have shared their experiences:

Marijuana use while quitting drinking?

byu/JoeyP42385 instopdrinking

Thoughts on replacing alcohol with marijuana?

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Weed helps me not drink

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Trusted Online Dispensary

Although cannabis can help you fight against alcohol addiction. It is crucial to know which strain to choose and its source. Low-quality or counterfeit products from unverified dispensaries can do more harm than good. To ensure safety and effectiveness, always purchase from reputable sources like The Green Ace. 

We offer premium-quality cannabis, including edibles, high-CBD strains, and balanced options designed to provide a safe and satisfying experience. Explore our carefully curated selection to find the right product for your needs, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of cannabis without compromising your well-being.

Wrap up

Cannabis presents a promising alternative for those struggling with alcohol dependence in Whitehorse. By reducing cravings, alleviating withdrawal symptoms, and lowering relapse rates, cannabis offers a pathway toward a healthier lifestyle. While it is not a cure, it can be a valuable tool in harm reduction and recovery.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol dependence, consider exploring cannabis as a safer alternative under medical guidance. And always ensure you’re purchasing from a trusted source like The Green Ace to guarantee quality and safety.