I was speaking at a Christian therapy conference on the topic of anxiety when an attendee approached me after the session and asked what I thought about using cannabis for sleep problems.

My response was straightforward: “I think that’s a very bad idea, and here’s why.”

The Growing Popularity of Cannabis for Sleep

Many people assume that because cannabis can make them feel sleepy, it must be an effective treatment for insomnia. Public opinion certainly seems to support that belief. According to a 2025 National Sleep Foundation survey, about 9% of U.S. adults currently use a cannabis product for sleep, and 17% report having tried it in the past.

But when it comes to medical decisions, we need to follow the research, not popular opinion.

Current evidence suggests that the benefits of cannabis for sleep are modest and short-term at best. A review of the last five years of research found insufficient evidence to conclude that cannabis effectively treats insomnia or other sleep disorders. Likewise, a Mayo Clinic review concluded that cannabis products have minimal to no proven benefits for most sleep problems and may even be harmful for some individuals.

Why Cannabis May Worsen Sleep Over Time

One reason cannabis use for sleep can be misleading is that its short-term effects differ from its long-term effects. The THC in cannabis can produce feelings of drowsiness and may help some people fall asleep more quickly. However, over time the body develops tolerance, meaning higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect. As tolerance increases, so do the risks of side effects and dependence.

Research also suggests that cannabis can alter normal sleep architecture, including reducing REM (deep) sleep. While users often expect cannabis to improve sleep, studies have linked regular use to poorer sleep quality, increased sleep disturbances, and longer times to fall asleep. In other words, what may seem helpful initially can become part of the problem over time.

Dependence and Withdrawal Can Create New Sleep Problems

Another concern is dependence.With frequent use, cannabis is associated with a range of sleep difficulties, including problems falling asleep, staying asleep, and achieving restorative sleep. These issues can become especially noticeable when a person attempts to reduce or stop using cannabis.

Withdrawal-related insomnia is common. For some individuals, withdrawal symptoms can be severe and may worsen anxiety, depression, or other substance use problems. Ironically, a person who began using cannabis to improve sleep may find that stopping it creates even greater sleep challenges.

The Impact Beyond Sleep

Sleep is not the only area affected by cannabis use. Research has linked cannabis use to impairments in memory, learning, attention, and decision-making. It has also been associated with anxiety, depression, and, in vulnerable individuals, psychosis.Other concerns include daytime sleepiness, impaired driving, and an increased risk of accidents.

These potential consequences should be carefully weighed against the limited evidence supporting cannabis as a treatment for sleep disorders.

Better-Supported Treatments for Insomnia

Fortunately, there are safer and more effective approaches to treating sleep problems. Medical organizations consistently recommend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) as a first-line treatment. CBT-I addresses the thoughts and behaviors that interfere with sleep and has strong evidence supporting its effectiveness.

Other helpful strategies include:

• Practicing good sleep hygiene
• Maintaining consistent sleep and wake times
• Increasing daytime light exposure
• Limiting evening screen time
• Reducing caffeine consumption, especially later in the day
• Addressing underlying anxiety, stress, or medical conditions that contribute to poor sleep

Additionally, individuals who are pregnant or who have a history of psychosis or cardiovascular disease should avoid cannabis use due to increased risks.

A Christian Perspective on Rest

As Christians, we are called to pursue wisdom when caring for our bodies and minds. While it may be tempting to look for a quick solution to sleep problems, God often works through healthy habits, wise choices, and evidence-based treatments.

Sleep is ultimately a gift from God. Scripture reminds us that our security is not found in a substance but in the Lord’s care for us.

Psalm 4:8 says: “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

When anxiety and sleeplessness threaten our rest, we can turn to God in prayer while also making wise decisions that support our physical and emotional health. Trusting God and following sound evidence are not opposing paths-they often work hand in hand.

If you are struggling with sleep, consider seeking proven treatments rather than relying on an experimental approach that may create more problems than it solves.