The legalization of marijuana in New Jersey has impacted many lives, with the state now being home to 38 dispensaries. Most dispensaries offer both medical marijuana and recreational-use products. Thirteen are medical-use exclusive while one is recreational-use only.
But even many of those who purchase recreational-use cannabis products point to the medical and health benefits of weed.
“I used to have severe anxiety and trouble sleeping,” said Mike Wolfson. “Since I have started using edibles in low doses, I get a great night’s sleep.”
“I always use marijuana because the edibles help me sleep. Before using them, I would be up all night,” said Kyle Heaney.
Matt DiStefano said he takes edibles “to help my anxiety… I have always been a naturally anxious person, and this is the only thing that consistently works for me.”
A former Brookdale business major has had a similar experience. “I have severe anxiety, so marijuana is a natural way to help me with my problem,” said Joe Francesco. “I would take edibles over medication any day.”
According to a 2020 National Library of Medicine survey, the top two reasons adults seek out legal, recreational-use marijuana is for anxiety, 49 percent, and for insomnia, 47 percent.
“I don’t use marijuana often anymore, but I understand why people need to. It helps people who are injured deal with pain, and it allows people to battle anxiety and depression in a healthy way, so I think it’s a good thing,” said former Brookdale student Josh Coca.