As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, millions of Americans vow to kick bad habits, but a fresh poll reveals a surprising twist: more folks aim to cut back on alcohol and tobacco than on marijuana. This shift highlights changing views on substances, sparking debates about health trends and cultural norms. What does this mean for public attitudes toward cannabis in 2026?
A recent survey by Censuswide, commissioned by Northerner.com, polled 1,003 U.S. adults on their 2026 New Year’s resolutions. Out of 15 options, reducing or stopping marijuana use ranked near the bottom.
Just 8 percent of respondents said they plan to limit or quit cannabis. In comparison, 10 percent targeted alcohol reduction, 12 percent focused on tobacco, and a whopping 16 percent aimed to curb social media habits.
This data, collected in late 2025, points to a growing acceptance of marijuana. Experts note that with legalization spreading across states, fewer people see it as a vice worth ditching.
The poll also showed other popular goals. Many wanted to eat healthier or exercise more, but substance-related resolutions stood out for their differences.
Broader Trends in Substance Use and Resolutions
National surveys back up these findings and show evolving patterns in how Americans handle alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported that marijuana use among adults aged 18 and older hit about 19 percent, up from previous years, while tobacco use continued to decline.
Alcohol remains the most common substance, but quitting intentions are rising. A CivicScience poll from late 2025 found intent to quit drinking jumped compared to prior years, aligning with the Censuswide results.
Marijuana, however, faces less backlash. Legal in 24 states for recreational use as of 2026, it often gets viewed as less harmful than alcohol or cigarettes. Health advocates point out that tobacco causes over 480,000 deaths yearly in the U.S., per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while alcohol links to about 140,000 deaths.
In contrast, marijuana-related health risks are debated, with some studies showing benefits for pain relief and anxiety. This might explain why only a small group wants to cut it out.
Here’s a quick breakdown of key resolution stats from the Censuswide poll:
- Alcohol reduction: 10%
- Tobacco reduction: 12%
- Marijuana reduction: 8%
- Social media limits: 16%
These numbers suggest Americans are rethinking priorities amid ongoing health campaigns.
Why the Shift Away from Marijuana Resolutions?
Cultural changes play a big role. With cannabis products like edibles and vapes becoming mainstream, many users see them as part of a balanced lifestyle rather than a problem.
One factor is the drop in stigma. A YouGov poll from December 2025 found that 62 percent of Americans support full marijuana legalization, up from 50 percent a decade ago.
Health perceptions matter too. While tobacco’s cancer links are clear, marijuana’s effects are mixed. Some research from the National Institutes of Health indicates it can help with chronic pain, leading users to keep it in their routines.
Economic angles add layers. The cannabis industry boomed to over $30 billion in sales in 2025, creating jobs and tax revenue. This success might make quitting less appealing.
Still, not everyone ignores risks. Groups like the American Lung Association warn about lung issues from smoking marijuana, similar to tobacco.
Personal stories highlight the trend. Take John, a 35-year-old from California, who shared in interviews that he plans to quit smoking cigarettes but keeps his occasional joint for stress relief. Such anecdotes show how resolutions reflect daily realities.
Impacts on Health and Society in 2026
This resolution pattern could shape public health efforts. If fewer people target marijuana, campaigns might focus more on alcohol and tobacco harms.
Experts predict a potential drop in alcohol-related issues if these resolutions stick. Past data from the World Health Organization shows that even short-term cuts in drinking can lower liver disease risks.
For tobacco, the push aligns with ongoing anti-smoking initiatives. The FDA’s recent bans on certain flavored products aim to reduce youth uptake, and adult quit rates could rise with this momentum.
On the flip side, marijuana’s lower quit rate might mean steady use levels. The 2025 Monitoring the Future survey noted stable teen substance use, with marijuana holding steady while energy drinks rose.
Society-wise, this reflects a maturing view of cannabis. As more states legalize, it integrates into wellness routines, much like a glass of wine once did.
Yet challenges remain. Overuse can lead to dependency for some, and driving under influence stays a concern. Lawmakers might use this data to refine policies.
In everyday life, these choices affect families and workplaces. Someone ditching alcohol might boost productivity, while keeping marijuana could aid relaxation. It all ties back to personal health goals.
| Substance | Percentage Planning to Reduce/Quit | Key Health Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | 10% | Liver damage |
| Tobacco | 12% | Lung cancer |
| Marijuana | 8% | Dependency |
This table underscores the poll’s core insights, helping readers see the contrasts at a glance.
These resolution trends paint a picture of a nation reevaluating its vices, with marijuana emerging as the least likely target for change in 2026. As Americans chase better health, this data offers hope for reduced harm from traditional substances while raising questions about cannabis’s long-term place in society.
