Cannabis Is Officially Mainstream: What the New National Study Reveals
Smiling senior woman holding a glass jar of cannabis buds and a joint, symbolizing growing acceptance of cannabis as a wellness product in the U.S.
According to the 2025 National Cannabis Study by MRI-Simmons, cannabis use is no longer a fringe activity — it’s part of mainstream American life. The report found that 31% of U.S. adults used cannabis within the past six months, a figure that reflects not only changing laws but shifting attitudes toward wellness, lifestyle, and health.
What was once a taboo topic is now being openly discussed, integrated into routines, and recognized as a legitimate wellness product. From younger professionals to older adults seeking relief from pain or anxiety, cannabis is now as normalized as a glass of wine or an evening tea.As cannabis becomes mainstream, operators face new regulatory and compliance challenges. Start with our quick Cannashield intake form to protect your business and navigate the next phase of growth confidently.
Cannabis as a Wellness Product, Not a Vice
One of the most important takeaways from the MRI-Simmons study is how consumer perception has evolved. Cannabis is increasingly seen as a wellness product, not a vice.
The stigma that once surrounded cannabis has given way to conversations about mental health, pain management, and holistic living. Many users report turning to cannabis for reasons such as:
• Stress relief and anxiety management
• Sleep improvement
• Pain control and inflammation reduction
• Creativity and focus
• Mindful relaxation rather than escapism
This shift is crucial because it moves cannabis into the same category as supplements, herbal remedies, or functional beverages — creating opportunities for responsible operators to build lasting brands rooted in transparency and education.
For business owners, this evolution underscores the importance of aligning marketing, insurance, and compliance with this new reality. As consumers expect cleaner products and clearer messaging, companies must ensure their operations, packaging, and claims meet higher standards of accountability.If your company is adapting to the wellness-focused cannabis market, complete our Cannashield questionnaire to make sure your coverage and compliance keep up with consumer expectations.
The Numbers Behind America’s Growing Acceptance
The study’s 31% figure represents tens of millions of adults — a demographic that cuts across every age, income level, and geography.
Here are some key insights from the report and related studies:
• Older adults are one of the fastest-growing segments of cannabis users, often turning to products for pain, sleep, and overall well-being.
• Women are increasingly driving consumption trends, particularly through edibles, topicals, and low-dose products marketed for relaxation and balance.
• Younger consumers see cannabis as part of a balanced lifestyle, not a rebellious act — using it for recreation in the same way previous generations might enjoy wine or coffee.
• Support for legalization continues to rise, with the majority of Americans favoring legal dispensaries, social equity programs, and standardized product safety testing.
What stands out most is how cannabis use now overlaps with mainstream behavior. It’s not about counterculture anymore; it’s about choice, control, and consistency.The normalization of cannabis isn’t just about consumers — it’s about business evolution. The industry has matured rapidly, moving from underground transactions to regulated storefronts and e-commerce.But with legitimacy comes responsibility. Operators must navigate increasingly complex legal frameworks, insurance requirements, and compliance audits. Those who adapt early — by implementing strong compliance programs, securing insurance coverage, and aligning with consumer trust — will set themselves apart as industry leaders.This moment isn’t just about celebrating acceptance. It’s about preparing for the next phase of regulation, where professionalism and protection become non-negotiable.Don’t let compliance or coverage gaps hold your business back. Fill out the Cannashield intake form to protect your cannabis operation before regulations evolve further.
The Bottom Line
The MRI-Simmons National Cannabis Study confirms what many of us in the industry have seen firsthand: cannabis has gone mainstream. It’s in living rooms, medicine cabinets, and wellness routines across the country — embraced by consumers who see it as part of a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
This growing acceptance comes with opportunity — and responsibility. As the line between cannabis and wellness continues to blur, businesses must operate with transparency, compliance, and risk protection that meet modern standards.
At Cannashield, we help cannabis operators prepare for this new era of legitimacy — providing coverage, compliance solutions, and risk strategies built for the modern market.Complete our full intake form today to protect your business and position yourself as a trusted name in America’s fastest-evolving industry.
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