Breaking The "Stoner" Stereotype
Despite the growing popularity of cannabis across North America, there is still a somewhat negative perception in regards to “stoners”. For many years, individuals who partake in cannabis have been labelled as being lazy, uneducated and unmotivated. While some strains (Indica) are capable of providing deep relaxation to the user, making someone appear “lazy”, there are other strains (Sativa) that actually do the opposite. These strains have a more daytime use as they energize the patient, making them more motivated and able to get on with their day. Years ago, we did not have the same distinction or popularity of these unique strains - and corresponding characteristics - so the stoner stereotype began. With the industry showing massive growth over the past few years, it now encompasses users of all types. Everyone from anxious young adults, to individuals suffering from chronic pain or insomnia or depression to elders managing their arthritis, cannabis is taking on new roles. To state that all stoners are lazy, is a very broad and outdated stereotype. Fortunately, there are things cannabis users can do to help break this outdated stoner stereotypes and help to encompass the current ideas of who a “stoner” might be.