Marijuana Use Rises as a Holiday Coping Mechanism, Survey Finds

OG article by Todd Denkin

December 23, 2025

A Freeman Recovery Center survey of over 1,000 Americans shows marijuana use rising as a holiday coping mechanism. About one-third incorporate cannabis into pre-holiday routines to manage stress from family gatherings and financial pressures like gift-buying. While alcohol remains the top choice at 51%, cannabis ranks second, with 31% overall reporting use. Younger generations show higher rates: 43% of Gen Z and millennials use it before events. Among those with prior substance use disorder history, cannabis coping reaches 50%. Millennials particularly turn to it for financial stress relief (45%). The survey reflects growing cannabis acceptance, aligning with a 2023 Pew poll showing 23% of adults used it in the past year. Practices like discreet “cousin walks” highlight this emerging holiday ritual among younger family members. The findings underscore self-medication trends amid emotional and economic holiday challenges.