University of Michigan researchers discovered that approximately 22% of young adults aged 19 to 30 have used cannabis or alcohol to help them sleep in the past year. The study analyzed data from nearly 1,500 participants. Around 18% specifically used cannabis for sleep, while about 7% used alcohol. Among general cannabis users, roughly 41% had used it for sleep compared to nearly 9% of alcohol users. Daily users were more likely to rely on these substances as sleep aids. “Cannabis and alcohol can help initiate sleep, but regular use may be problematic,” researchers wrote. They warn that tolerance builds over time, potentially requiring larger doses and increasing dependency risk. Withdrawal from both substances can cause insomnia, making it difficult to stop using them for sleep. (Story URL)
