Recovery is all about making choices that support your sobriety and well-being. As CBD (cannabidiol) becomes more popular for its potential health benefits, you may be wondering whether it’s safe—or even beneficial—to use during recovery. Understanding what CBD is, how it affects your body, and the risks involved can help you make an informed decision if it is the right option for you to use in recovery.
CBD is a compound found in the cannabis plant, but unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it does not produce a “high.” Many people use CBD for potential benefits like reducing anxiety, improving sleep, or relieving chronic pain. You can find CBD in various forms, including oils, gummies, capsules, and topical creams.
Why Some People Consider CBD in Recovery
CBD has gained attention for its potential therapeutic effects. Some people in recovery turn to CBD for reasons such as:
- Anxiety and stress relief. Many claim that CBD helps them feel calmer and reduces anxiety, which can be a common struggle in early recovery.
- Pain management. If you’re dealing with chronic pain, CBD may seem like a natural alternative to prescription painkillers.
- Sleep support. Insomnia is common in recovery, and some people say CBD helps them fall asleep and stay asleep longer.
Because CBD is non-intoxicating and legal in many places, it may seem like a safe option. However, it’s important to consider the potential downsides as well.
In Texas, CBD products are legal if they comply with state and federal laws regulating the manufacture and sale of such products. Learn more about Texas’ CBD regulations here.
Reasons to Be Cautious About CBD in Recovery
Even though CBD is different from THC, it still comes with potential risks for someone in addiction recovery. Here are some reasons to think twice before using it:
- CBD products aren’t always pure. The CBD industry is not well-regulated, meaning some products may contain THC or other substances that could trigger a relapse. Even if the label says “THC-free,” there’s a risk of contamination.
- Potential psychological triggers. For some people in recovery, using any substance that alters the mind or body—even slightly—can lead to cravings or a desire to use other substances. Even if CBD itself isn’t addictive, the act of taking it regularly might make it easier to justify other substance use.
- Legal and employment risks. Since some CBD products contain trace amounts of THC, there’s a possibility that using CBD could lead to a positive drug test. If you are in a treatment program, on probation, or subject to workplace drug testing, this could have serious consequences.
- Lack of long-term research. While early research on CBD is promising, there is still much we don’t know about its long-term effects—especially for people in addiction recovery.
What’s the Best Choice for Your Recovery?
Ultimately, whether or not to use CBD in recovery is a personal decision—but it’s one that should be made carefully. Here are some steps to help you make an informed choice:
- Talk to your doctor or therapist. If you’re considering CBD, consult with a medical professional who understands your recovery journey.
- Consider your triggers, Be honest with yourself about whether using CBD could make you more vulnerable to relapse.
- Evaluate your motivation. Ask yourself why you want to use CBD. If it’s to manage anxiety or pain, are there other recovery-friendly methods you could try first?
- Research the product. If you do choose to use CBD, ensure it comes from a reputable source and has been tested for purity and THC content.
Staying sober means making decisions that protect your recovery. While some people believe CBD can be helpful, it’s not risk-free—especially for those with a history of addiction. The most important thing is to prioritize your long-term sobriety and choose what truly supports your well-being.
At Stone River Recovery Center in San Antonio, Texas, we can provide the guidance, tools, and encouragement you need to rebuild your life and thrive, offering hope every step of the way. Please contact us today to learn more about our addiction treatment services including detox, residential treatment, and intensive outpatient program, and our mental health services for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
