Ask Dr. Litinas: Why cannabis deserves a new conversation—and a break from the stigma

Ask Dr. Litinas is a column that publishes twice monthly as part of The MichiGanja Report—our free, weekly newsletter about all things marijuana. Click here to sign up.

MICHIGAN—Cannabis is legal here and widely used, yet many Michiganders still feel the need to hide it—from their doctor, their family, or even their friends and neighbors. 

Stigma is powerful. Unfortunately, it keeps people from making safe, informed choices.

It’s time to change the conversation.

Why the stigma lingers

For decades, propaganda and the “War on Drugs” painted cannabis as dangerous and immoral.

Even today, federal law still lists it as a Schedule I substance—a designation that means the plant has “no medical value,” despite scientific evidence to the contrary and billions of dollars in legal sales and state oversight in Michigan. That contradiction keeps many patients silent.

How stigma hurts

The cost of stigma is lost communication, riskier use, and potential negative outcomes.

In healthcare: Patients avoid telling their doctors, missing important safety checks for interactions, dosing, or contraindicating medical conditions. 

At home: Seniors, for example, who could benefit from tinctures or topicals often feel embarrassed to ask about or purchase cannabis products. 

At work and in families: Adults fear judgment or punitive outcomes, even when using responsibly and legally.

A better way forward

Cannabis is not a cure-all, and it does come with side effects. But it can be a valuable tool for wellbeing. Using it wisely begins with open, informed discussions—and breaking stigma starts with honest conversation:

• Talk to your doctor. Share your goals, medications, and past experiences. Ask about interactions and safe options.
• Start low, go slow. If you’re introducing cannabis to a newbie, especially seniors, talk to them about the power of small doses. A little can go a long way.  
• Buy from licensed Michigan dispensaries. Products are tested, labeled, and safer than unregulated alternatives. Don’t be afraid to ask dispensary employees for guidance.
• Store responsibly. Use child-resistant containers and keep cannabis sealed in a cool, dark place. For parents who feel comfortable doing so, talk about cannabis like it’s medicine—because it is. 

Final thought

Stigma silences—but silence isn’t safe. Cannabis deserves the same open, evidence-based conversation as any other wellness tool. By speaking honestly—with our doctors, our families, and ourselves—we can replace taboo with thoughtful, safe and empowered use.

This content is for education, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before making any health decisions—especially when it comes to cannabis. Products are only for adults ages 21 and up. 

READ MORE: How to talk to your physician about cannabis—and why it matters

Got a question about weed for Dr. Litinas? Send it in here. We’ll get you a response. 

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