As marijuana and CBD become more widely accepted across our country, many veterans are turning to these substances to help manage conditions like chronic pain, insomnia, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. However, using cannabis or CBD products is not as straightforward as it may seem, especially for those who are receiving care from the Department of Veterans Affairs, holding a security clearance, or working in federal jobs.
Before you light up, try a gummy, or get handed a vape pen, there are a few things that we should be aware of. It is better to know before risking backlash, so let’s discuss the legal, medical, and occupational implications.
Federal vs. State Law: A Confusing Landscape
While a growing number of states have legalized marijuana for medical and recreational use, it remains illegal under federal law. According to the VA’s website, ‘Veterans should know that federal law classifies marijuana as a Schedule I Controlled Substance’. This means that veterans living in states where cannabis is legal may still face consequences under federal laws, including those governing VA services and certain types of employment. CBD derived from hemp containing less than 0.3% THC is legal federally, but due to lax regulation, product quality and THC levels can vary widely.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, “Schedule I drugs, substances, or chemicals are defined as drugs with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Some examples of Schedule I drugs are: heroin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), marijuana (cannabis), 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (ecstasy), methaqualone, and peyote.”
While I served in the Army, leaders often warned us about quality control issues with many products. Service members risked their careers by consuming foods, drinks, or other items that contained so-called ‘harmless’ amounts of substances like poppy seeds or certain muscle-building ingredients. How often have you seen a product advertised as having controlled levels, only to hear about a recall because that claim wasn’t true? It happens more than you think. I don’t think it was or would ever be worth the risk.
VA Policy on Marijuana and CBD
The VA’s policy is clear: veterans will not be denied VA benefits solely for using marijuana. However, VA doctors cannot prescribe or recommend cannabis products. Veterans are encouraged to disclose their cannabis or CBD use to their VA providers to ensure safe and coordinated care, but this information becomes part of their official medical record. Using any sort of controlled substance can interfere with treatment plans, recovery times, or even eligibility for certain procedures that could be life-altering.
Impacts on Employment and Security Clearances
Veterans seeking or currently holding federal employment or security clearances should be extremely cautious. Testing positive for marijuana, even in a state where it’s legal, can disqualify someone from holding a clearance or result in job termination. The last thing that any federal worker wants to do at the moment is put themselves any more in the potential crosshairs for removal.
Some private sector jobs also conduct drug testing, and THC can remain in the system for days or weeks. Even some CBD products may trigger a positive drug test due to trace amounts of THC, especially if the products are mislabeled or unregulated. Once again, you do not want to take any chances with someone else’s level of ‘quality control’.
Health and Wellness: What Does the Research Say?
There are many reports out there from veterans indicating that cannabis and CBD products provide relief for various symptoms, however, the scientific evidence is still limited. I have even heard of people using it on their pets for the treatment of various conditions. Studies on marijuana’s effectiveness for PTSD have shown mixed results, and there’s concern that it may potentially worsen anxiety or depression in some individuals.
According to a report on the VA’s website regarding PTSD and cannabis treatments, there was no significant difference in reduction between a placebo and active cannabis preparations. However, in a separate phase of the study, which did not include a placebo, there was a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms in the THC + CBD group only. The report states that it is not possible to draw conclusions due to the lack of a placebo.
Nonetheless, some veterans report improved sleep, reduced pain, and better quality of life, particularly when other treatments have failed. Before taking the risk, make sure that you exhaust all fully legal options before resorting to what people around you are suggesting.
Product Safety and Quality Concerns
Unlike FDA-approved medications, most cannabis and CBD products are not as stringently tested for safety or efficacy. Contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, and molds can be present, especially in products bought from unlicensed sources. Should you decide that this is the route for you and your treatment, only buy from reputable dispensaries, request certificates of analysis (lab reports), and start with low doses to monitor how your body responds.
Should you have any interactions or issues, do not try and hide this from your medical provider. Again, this could affect medications, procedures, and treatment options.
Talking to Your Doctor
Veterans should be open with their healthcare providers. Whether you see a VA or civilian doctor, you should disclose and discuss any interest in or current use of marijuana or CBD. Only a medical provider can help identify potential interactions with other medications and recommend safer alternatives if cannabis isn’t appropriate. Open communication builds trust and can lead to a more comprehensive and safer treatment plan.
Alternative Approaches for Symptom Management
As appealing and exciting as cannabis is, it isn’t the only option for managing symptoms. Do not let your zest for experiencing all of what civilian life has to offer impede your decision-making. Veterans should explore other holistic and evidence-based treatments, such as mindfulness meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, acupuncture, and group therapy.
These holistic and medically sound treatments can complement or sometimes replace the need for cannabis, especially in cases where cannabis use may present legal or occupational risks.
Is it worth the risk?
As a recent retiree from the military, I can tell you that the desire is truly ‘there’ to try all of the things that the military has held you back from. But make the smart choices first. Talk to your medical team, talk to your mental health resources, and talk to your job first. Find out what the impacts are for you, your family, and your future. Again, CBD, THC, and other substances may not be illegal for you to take as a veteran, but as a clearance holder, you are putting your clearance at risk.
Using marijuana or CBD as a veteran isn’t a simple choice. It’s one that comes with legal, medical, and career-related considerations. I implore you to stay informed, prioritize safety and transparency, and work with knowledgeable healthcare providers to determine the best path forward for your physical and mental health. Making informed decisions today can protect benefits, careers, and long-term well-being tomorrow.
