Cannabis use in the U.S. surpasses alcohol and tobacco consumption

Recent data indicates that cannabis has become the most commonly used drug in the United States, with approximately 21.4 million people using it daily or near-daily. This figure surpasses the consumption frequencies of cigarette smokers (19.9 million) and alcohol drinkers (17.2 million), according to the 2025 National Survey on Drug Use and Health by SAMHSA.

Health concerns are rising alongside usage. A report from the CDC noted a roughly 16% increase in emergency room visits for cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) between October 2025 and May 2026.

Research suggests that younger users, particularly Generation Z, are increasingly using THC to self-medicate for mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Factors contributing to these mental health struggles include economic uncertainty and social media usage. Approximately 33.7% of cannabis users are between the ages of 18 and 25.