"California Sober" and Its Dangers
Being "California sober" is very risky- especially for those in recovery
You may have heard of the term “California sober.” It is a common term in recovery, referring to consuming marijuana, with the potential for consuming moderate amounts of alcohol and psychedelics, but not hard drugs like heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and prescription opioids.
The term gained attention when singer Demi Lovato, who wrote a song by the same name, claimed they were “California sober.” Lovato is very open about their struggle with addiction and road to recovery.
“California sober” may be a beneficial form of harm reduction, and many argue that it allows people to consume substances in a “safer” way, with less risk of addiction and reduced chance of failure from an “all or nothing” mentality.
However, others say that it is harmful to those in recovery and should not be viewed as a form of sobriety- as it is not. The term is in opposition to what experts believe is the best and most effective way to recover from addiction. By consuming alcohol and marijuana, it can lower inhibitions and result in a relapse with harder drugs.
AA and NA say that addicts are unable to consume substances in moderation, therefore “California sober” sets a person up for failure. Most people can safely drink or use marijuana in moderation. However, if you're struggling with addiction, these can be dangerous relapse triggers. Most people who get sober and return to drinking or use "softer" drugs like marijuana eventually return to their drug of choice. Claiming to be “California sober” also has the risk of being in denial about the quantity of consumption.
“California sober” is similar to the Moderation Management program, created by Audrey Kishline, in that it allows addicts and alcoholics to smoke marijuana and drink moderate amounts. Audrey Kishline developed the program as a substitute for AA, however, the program failed to address the rock-bottoms that are experienced and overlooks the control that substances can have on a person. Kishline herself used the program which resulted in out of control drinking. She eventually abandoned the program and sought help from Alcoholics Anonymous.
There is also a condition called behavioral addiction that can result from being “California sober.” Marijuana may not have the same addictive potential as other narcotics or even alcohol, but that doesn't mean it's without risk. Marijuana use can lead to a behavioral addiction, even if you don't acquire a biological addiction to cannabis. This means that while you may not experience physical cravings or withdrawal symptoms, you may have a psychological or emotional need to consume the substance. A behavioral addiction is dangerous and difficult to overcome.
Many people use drugs or alcohol to solve problems, unwind after a long day at work, avoid tough emotions or circumstances, or manage mental health symptoms. The issue with this is that it never resolves the underlying issue. Managing mental illness, emotions, and stress requires a significant amount of time and effort.
Is “California sober” really sober? Technically, no. According to American Addiction Centers, sobriety means completely abstaining from substances, including drugs and alcohol. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction and would like to seek help, please call our admissions line at: (949) 565-4061