More Vets Using Cannabis to Improve “Overall Quality of Life”

According to new data, more American veterans are taking advantage of the health benefits of marijuana.

Researchers reviewed cannabis use patterns among a national sample of over 4,000 U.S. veterans and found that 12% acknowledged having consumed cannabis within the past six-months – up from 9% in 2014, which was the last time researchers surveyed the issue, NORML reported.

“Veteran cannabis use may be increasing and is particularly prevalent among veterans with psychiatric conditions (such as PTSD),” the researchers noted.

Separate data reported earlier this month in The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse determined that veterans who use cannabis were likely to report “desirable health outcomes,” including improvements in pain relief, sleep quality, and overall quality of life.

Prior surveys have similarly shown increasing rates of marijuana use among military veterans. Data compiled by The American Legion reports that 39% of respondents “know a veterans” who is using cannabis for therapeutic purposes.