October 6, 2025
Scared Straight: The Shocking Mental Health Benefits of Horror
And, it isn't just a generalization; it's playing out in the numbers. In 2022, approximately 17.7 million Americans reported enjoying cannabis daily or near daily. This is compared to 14.7 million who reported the same frequency of drinking alcohol.
Then, when they do choose to imbibe, Gen Z prefers cannabis. Another 2022 survey discovered that 69 percent of people between the ages of 18 and 24 prefer cannabis to booze (this survey did not account for the fact that the legal age of consumption for cannabis and alcohol is typically 21+).
As per the World Health Organization (WHO), alcohol "has been classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer decades ago – this is the highest risk group, which also includes asbestos, radiation, and tobacco."
Alcohol, on the other hand, is a depressant that affects the central nervous system, reducing inhibitions and impairing cognitive function. Chronic alcohol use is associated with liver damage, cardiovascular issues, and increased cancer risk.