Michigan Cannabis (Marijuana) Update: Stats, Recreational Use & Addiction
In 2008, Michiganders voted to legalize medical cannabis. Ten years later, they voted “yes” for its recreational use and were first allowed to buy adult-use cannabis from a storefront in 2019. Since then, Michigan retailers have sold more than $11.5 billion in adult-use and medical cannabis products, making it one of the top four state retailers in the country (together with California, Colorado, and Washington). In 2024, only 0.8% of Michigan cannabis sales were medical-related. Interestingly, the overall prevalence of medical vs. adult-use sales in the US is 27%, and the prevalence is higher in US states with legal recreational cannabis use. While studies show that cannabis sales have diminished in many states since the pandemic, Michigan continued to increase adult-use sales by 21% in 2024.
Facts about recreational cannabis use in Michigan:
- You must be 21 to grow, possess, transport, and use cannabis recreationally in Michigan.
- Adults 21 years of age or older can purchase up to 2.5 ounces of adult-use cannabis in a single transaction.
- Products by sales volume are flowers, edibles, and concentrate.
- Adults can keep up to 10 ounces of cannabis in their homes and 2.5 ounces when traveling.
- Adults may grow up to 12 plants as long as they are not publicly visible.
- Using or possessing marijuana in public or failing to store it properly is punishable by a fine of no more than $100.
- Driving while high has a penalty of up to $500, up to 93 days in jail, and 6 points on a driver’s license or suspension.
- Note: cannabis is illegal at the federal level.
“Cannabis, which some people call marijuana, refers to the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds of the Cannabis sativa L plant. The plant contains at least 125 different cannabinoids, including delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Delta-9 THC is the most abundant form of THC in the cannabis plant. It has intoxicating effects, meaning it can temporarily alter the person’s mood, thoughts, and perceptions.” National Institute of Health
Michigan Cannabis – Recreational (Adult-Use)
As a behavioral health organization, it is important to recognize the complexities surrounding the use of cannabis, particularly in light of its increasing legalization across the United States. For many individuals, using cannabis can be a means of coping with stress, enhancing experiences, or managing social anxiety, depression, and mood swings. About 13% of US adults use cannabis, and although its mind-altering effects can bring about enhanced sensory experiences and mood shifts, it can also lead to negative outcomes. Short-term and long-term effects, like memory loss, paranoia, and the potential for addiction, can disrupt an individual’s personal life. Likewise, the rising presence of synthetic cannabinoids, which are more potent, poses even greater risks.
Who is using cannabis in Michigan? Why?
- A new poll from the University of Michigan shows that 27% of Michiganders over age 50 used cannabis products that contain the psychoactive compound THC at least once in the past year.
- Older respondents say they use cannabis to relax, help them sleep or feel good, address pain, improve mental health, and celebrate.
- 26.8% of Michigan adults have used cannabis within the past year.
- In an NIH study, young adults (18-25) said they used cannabis for experimentation, fun, and conformity.
- 29.7% of 10th graders and 44.5% of 12th graders have tried cannabis.
- 22% of 12th graders have used cannabis in the past month, 6% report daily use.
- Studies show that teens use cannabis primarily for fun and enjoyment.
- Cannabis use is linked to more negative consequences when teens use cannabis to “cope or forget problems,” including memory loss, lackย of concentration, and acting “foolish or goofy.”
The use of cannabis during the teenage years poses serious concerns, as it can severely disrupt brain development at a time when it is most crucial. This disruption can lead to lasting negative consequences on cognitive skills, including memory, learning abilities, and decision-making. Importantly, frequent or early exposure to cannabis can heighten the risk of significant mental health challenges, such as depression and psychosis. Moreover, cannabis use can adversely affect academic achievement and social relationships, resulting in difficulties with concentration and coordination.
“What we look for as warning signs of cannabis dependence are increased tolerance/increased use, unsuccessful attempts at quitting or managing use, time spent acquiring cannabis, cravings, neglect of social obligations, and continued use despite social or interpersonal problems.” Tessa Sterling, LMSW, Sanford Behavioral Health Clinical Director
Cannabis Addiction
After alcohol and tobacco, cannabis is the most commonly used substance of abuse in the United States. Some individuals will develop cannabis use disorder, which means they are unable to stop using cannabis even though it causes negative repercussions. The risk of developing cannabis addiction is greater for those who start using during their early years (under 25) or for those who use cannabis frequently.
The problems with cannabis use
- Although “fun” and “experimentation” are key factors in why individuals of all ages use cannabis, the effects are not all fun and games. Frequent or heavy cannabis use has been linked to problems with learning and memory, attention, motor function, language, and processing speed, especially in those under 25.
- Cannabis is linked with suicidal thoughts and behaviors in teens and military Veterans in the US.
- Evidence has linked cannabis use to early onset of psychosis in those with genetic risk factors for psychotic disorders.
- For those with psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, cannabis can worsen symptoms, especially in young males.
- Cannabis intoxication, especially in high doses, can induce a temporary psychotic episode.
- There is an increased risk of depression for adolescents who use cannabis.
- There is an increase in simultaneous alcohol and cannabis use among adults 21+ in the US. Driving under the influence doubles with simultaneous use, and accidents increase five-fold.
- We need more research on the extent to which cannabis may cause poor mental health outcomes.
Comments on cannabis use disorder from Sanford Behavioral Health Clinical Director Tessa Sterling, LMSW
Anytime I look at substance use, even if it’s a prescription medication, I look at the person’s relationship with the substance and the level of impairment. How is it impacting daily life? Is it getting in the way of their relationships? Any substance, including cannabis, can have a maladaptive impact on a patient’s functioning. Individuals struggle with all types of things: social anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Naturally, teenagers and young adults use cannabis to manage stress and anxiety. However, cannabis impacts brain development and mood, and ultimately, cannabis is a depressant. I worry about the normalization of cannabis use in our culture (e.g., California sober).
For some, cannabis is a method of harm reduction, and we are willing to meet people where they’re at. For example, cannabis can be supportive in managing a heroin addiction or alcohol addiction. As a mental health community, we have work to do in reevaluating harm reduction across the continuum of care. Our ultimate goal should be increased health, well-being, and improved functioning of our patients. However, if cannabis impacts relationships and there’s impairment, then we would treat cannabis as an addiction, just like alcohol or opiates. We also see the co-occurrence of cannabis and alcohol or cannabis and other mental health conditions. In that regard, assessments are vital as individuals come through our doors at Sanford Behavioral Health.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, eating disorders, or co-occurring mental health conditions, donโt wait to change your life โ click the link below to speak with a Sanford Behavioral Health admissions specialist.
