Cannabis has become the most commonly used drug in the United States, with approximately 21.4 million people using it daily or near-daily, surpassing the roughly 19.9 million cigarette smokers and 17.2 million alcohol drinkers, according to the 2025 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Emergency room visits for cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), a condition characterized by cyclical vomiting caused by frequent cannabis use, increased by roughly 16% from October 2025 through May 2026, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Young adults aged 18-25 represent about 33.7% of marijuana users. This demographic, often referred to as Zoomers or Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012), is facing significant mental health challenges. A July study by Harmony Healthcare IT found that 34% of Zoomers reported taking prescription medication for mental health issues as of May 2025, while 19% reported self-medicating.

Furthermore, 46% of Zoomers have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, and 37% suspect they have one. Northwestern Mutual reported on August 3 that 71% of Zoomers believe they may never achieve major life milestones such as marriage or homeownership.

The cannabis industry is projected to reach nearly $47 billion in legal sales in 2026, according to Flowhub.

These trends suggest a growing reliance on cannabis among young Americans, potentially linked to broader economic and social uncertainties.

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