Healing and Togetherness

Cannabis isn't just a solo vibe anymore

For years, cannabis was painted as something that isolates people: a stoner on the couch, checked out from life.

But as medical research grows – and laws slowly evolve – a different story is emerging: used intentionally and responsibly, cannabis can actually help people show up more fully for themselves and for one another.

In this blog, we'll unpack how cannabis may support healing, how that spills over into relationships, and how to use it in ways that foster togetherness rather than distance.

The science: when people feel better, they connect better

Medical cannabis is increasingly used for chronic pain, sleep problems, anxiety and other conditions that can quietly crush social life. In a 2023 case series, patients using medical cannabis reported sustained improvements in health-related quality of life over time, including better ability to manage daily activities.

A systematic review and meta-analysis also found that, across various conditions, cannabinoids were linked with improvements in health-related quality of life – not a miracle cure, but meaningful relief for many.

When your pain is down, your sleep is better, and your anxiety is less intense, you have more energy, more patience – and more space for other humans.

Less pain, more presence

Chronic pain and long-term illness often lead to social withdrawal. People cancel plans, avoid family events and feel misunderstood.

Studies on medical cannabis for chronic conditions suggest moderate benefits for pain and related symptoms in some patients, which can translate into better day-to-day functioning.

That doesn't mean pain vanishes. But if cannabis helps someone move from "I can't cope" to "I can manage", it becomes easier to:

• Join family braais instead of staying in bed
• Play with the kids or grandkids
• Take part in community events or support groups

Less suffering can mean more presence – and presence is where connection starts.

Calmer nervous systems, softer conversations

Anxiety and trauma can make relationships feel like walking through a minefield. Early research around CBD (the non-intoxicating compound in cannabis) is promising here.

A 2024 systematic review of randomised controlled trials found that CBD showed anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects in several anxiety disorders when compared with placebo or usual treatment.

Open-label and clinical studies of high-CBD cannabis products also report reductions in anxiety symptoms over a few weeks of treatment.

Another study on patient values and preferences noted that many medical cannabis users felt it reduced their anxiety, stress and emotional distress, helping them cope better day to day.

Calmer nervous systems can mean:

• Fewer snap reactions in arguments
• More ability to listen without feeling overwhelmed
• Easier vulnerability and emotional honesty

That's powerful for couples, families and friendship circles.

Cannabis as a ritual of togetherness

Beyond symptom relief, the way we use cannabis matters. Intentional rituals can turn consumption into connection:

• Gratitude circles – sharing one thing you're grateful for before lighting up
• Creative nights – drawing, music, or vision-boarding together
• Body-kind check-ins – talking openly about stress, pain and emotions while using cannabis or CBD as part of a broader self-care routine

Some observational research in people with PTSD has even suggested improvements in social and family functioning in those using cannabis therapeutically, although the evidence is mixed and still evolving.

Used mindfully, cannabis can become a tool for shared meaning rather than silent escape.

Use it wisely: boundaries, consent and safety.

Of course, cannabis is not risk-free. High-THC products, heavy use and self-medicating without medical guidance can worsen anxiety, mood problems or cardiovascular risk in some people.

To keep the connection at the centre:

• Talk honestly about who wants to use, how often, and why
• Respect no – not everyone enjoys or tolerates cannabis
• Favour lower THC and higher CBD, especially for anxiety-prone people
• In South Africa, stay within legal guidelines and always consult a healthcare professional if you have medical conditions or take chronic medication

Healing and togetherness are built on consent, clarity and care – cannabis should never replace those basics.

Final puff: healing is a team sport

Cannabis won't fix a broken relationship, heal trauma overnight or replace therapy. But for some people, it can reduce the physical and emotional load just enough to make a connection possible again.

Used intentionally – in combination with medical advice, healthy boundaries and honest conversation – cannabis can be part of a bigger picture of community, healing and human closeness.

References

1. Arkell TR, et al. Assessment of Medical Cannabis and Health-Related Quality of Life. 2023.
2. Tait MA, et al. Health-related Quality of Life in Patients Accessing Medicinal Cannabis. PLOS One, 2023; plus Goldenberg M, et al. The impact of cannabis and cannabinoids on health-related quality of life: systematic review and meta-analysis.
3. Coelo CF, et al. The Impact of Cannabidiol Treatment on Anxiety Disorders: Systematic Review of RCTs. 2024.
4. Dahlgren MK, et al. High-CBD Cannabis-Derived Product for Anxiety: Phase 2 Clinical Trial. 2022.
5. Zeng L, et al. Values and Preferences Towards Medical Cannabis Among Patients With Chronic Pain and Other Conditions. BMJ Open, 2021.
6. Rehman Y, et al. Cannabis in the Management of PTSD: A Systematic Review. 2021.

Disclaimer: This blog supports responsible cannabis use. The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.