When searching for cannabis research, you’ll quickly notice that research on the harms of cannabis is abundant because it is easier to fund. Such is the case with the recently published study “‘Wake-and-Bake’ Cannabis Use: Predictors and Cannabis-Related Outcomes of Use Shortly After Waking.” The authors of this paper examine patterns of high-risk cannabis use such as consuming cannabis within 30 minutes of waking.
Wake-and-Bake cannabis consumption is thought to be a potential indication of problematic cannabis use in the same sense that nicotine addiction can be gauged on the time between waking and consuming nicotine [1]. Likewise, the use of alcohol in the morning is also a major sign of dependence. These observations led researchers to the question:
“…to what extent is [wake-and-bake cannabis use] associated with using greater quantities of cannabis, experiencing more negative cannabis-related consequences, and engaging in other risky behaviors, like driving under the influence of cannabis?”
To assess the possible link between wake-and-bakers, cannabis dependence, and risky behavior, the researchers recruited over 400 male and female study participants in their early 20s that also used alcohol multiple times per month [1]. The participants completed a twice-daily survey for six 14-day periods over the course of two years. Here is a summary of their findings:
- Wake-and-bake use was reported on 11.2% of cannabis use days
- 35.4% of participants had at least one day of wake-and-bake cannabis use
- Participants reported being high for longer on wake-and-bake use days
- On wake-and-bake use days, participants were more likely to drive under the influence
- Wake-and-bake cannabis use did not have significantly more negative consequences than non-wake-and-bake use
- Wake-and-bake use was more common among participants with more cannabis use disorder symptoms
- Participants who reported higher average social anxiety also were more likely to wake-and-bake
The wake-and-bake habit of some cannabis users has not been well studied. This research is a rare glimpse into the psychology behind cannabis users that like to wake-and-bake. However, it also calls attention to the risks. Most recreational cannabis users will not be motivated to use cannabis within 30 minutes of waking up, so those who do should take time to reflect on their relationship with cannabis and consider getting assessed for cannabis use disorder.
Of course, there are instances of morning cannabis use that will not fit this model. Medical cannabis users may need to use cannabis in the morning to improve their ability to function normally. However, using cannabis without medical guidance to alleviate conditions like anxiety can backfire. This underscores the need for cannabis users to form relationships with open-minded physicians that can guide their use in the right direction.
References
- Calhoun, B. H., Graupensperger, S., Fairlie, A. M., Walukevich-Dienst, K., Patrick, M. E., & Lee, C. M. (2023). “Wake-and-Bake” Cannabis Use: Predictors and Cannabis-Related Outcomes of Use Shortly After Waking. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 109937.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376871623001758
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