They call it “California sober.” This term generally refers to individuals who choose to use marijuana while abstaining from alcohol and other addictive substances such as narcotics. It’s a lifestyle gaining popularity among people seeking a healthier relationship with substances—particularly those who have experienced negative consequences from alcohol use, such as medical issues, legal troubles, or financial strain.
The “California sober” approach is often embraced by people in recovery who don’t identify with complete abstinence but still want to avoid substances that have caused harm in their lives. For them, cannabis is seen as a safer alternative that offers relaxation or even medical benefits without the high risk of addiction or severe health consequences that come with alcohol or opioids.
But is marijuana truly better for you than alcohol? The answer isn’t so simple. While there is growing evidence supporting cannabis for medical use—such as for anxiety, chronic pain, and certain neurological conditions—health professionals caution against viewing it as a one-size-fits-all solution or a harmless replacement for more dangerous substances. Using marijuana regularly without medical oversight can also have downsides, including dependency and impaired cognitive function.
In this week's Northern Express, the sister publication of The Ticker, writer Art Bukowski explores the “California sober” lifestyle in depth. He speaks with advocates who promote it, individuals who live by it, and medical professionals who offer insight into the risks and benefits of this growing trend.
This week’s issue also features a number of marijuana-related stories, including a practical guide for first-time cannabis users and a comprehensive look at how communities like Gaylord and Traverse City plan to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars in marijuana excise tax revenues into local development projects.
The Northern Express is available to read online or can be picked up for free at more than 650 newsstands across 13 counties in northern Michigan.
