In a recent documentary titled “Dancing With The Devil,” pop star Lexi Harper opened up about her experiences, including her identity as “really queer.” With her fame comes scrutiny, and her discussions about her journey with addiction and recovery have sparked various opinions. Harper has been candid about her struggles with substance use, and her recent label of being “California Sober” has raised eyebrows among fans and experts alike.
The term “California Sober” is defined by Urban Dictionary as a lifestyle where individuals consume only marijuana and sometimes psychedelics, opting to avoid alcohol entirely. This approach is gaining traction among people looking to reduce their alcohol intake while still enjoying other substances that are perceived as less harmful. With the legalization of marijuana in many states, its use is increasingly seen as a safer alternative to alcohol, which often comes with unpleasant hangover effects.
An individual from Colorado shared their experience, explaining, “When I drink, even a glass or two of wine impacts my sleep. But if I skip the alcohol and use my cannabis vape pen, I sleep soundly and wake up feeling great.” Although the concept of California sobriety isn’t new, it has become more widely recognized. Many people participate in initiatives like Dry January, choosing to abstain from alcohol for various personal reasons, from health detoxification to concerns about a potentially harmful relationship with alcohol.
However, there’s a debate over whether those who still use substances like marijuana can genuinely call themselves sober. As someone who has been in recovery for several years, I resonate with the perspective that using the term “sober” when still consuming substances may feel misleading. Addiction specialist Dr. Noah Green pointed out that adopting a California Sober lifestyle could pose risks for individuals in recovery, emphasizing that it might increase the likelihood of relapse.
While I understand these concerns, I also recognize that recovery is a personal journey, and what works for one person may not suit another. For individuals like Harper, finding a balanced approach to managing substances is essential. Harper’s choice to incorporate moderate alcohol and marijuana use into her recovery plan was made in collaboration with her case manager, and she emphasizes that her strategy is not necessarily suitable for everyone.
My own recovery involves complete abstinence from all substances. Although I don’t struggle with marijuana or pills, I view them as potential risks for my addiction to alcohol. For me, using any mind-altering substance is not an option, except for my prescribed medications. However, I respect that others in recovery may have different paths and still enjoy the occasional glass of wine or recreational drug while acknowledging they are not fully sober.
Harper has expressed similar sentiments in interviews, noting that she does not want others to feel pressured to adopt her parameters for safety, as recovery is not a one-size-fits-all situation. While I may not advocate for a California Sober lifestyle for those with addiction histories, I acknowledge that for some, it may be a workable approach.
It’s vital for anyone navigating their relationship with substances to consult with healthcare professionals, mental health providers, or addiction counselors. Resources such as this excellent source on pregnancy can offer guidance and support for those exploring their options.
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Summary:
The term “California Sober” refers to a lifestyle choice involving the use of marijuana and psychedelics while abstaining from alcohol. This approach is becoming more popular among individuals seeking to reduce alcohol consumption without giving up all substances. While some experts caution against this lifestyle for those in recovery, others believe that recovery is a unique journey for everyone. It’s important to evaluate one’s relationship with substances and seek guidance from professionals.