How To Use Marijuana For Managing Depression
Since higher doses of THC could worsen symptoms, individuals struggling with depression should seek strains with lower THC content. Try a strain containing CBD with a low dose to start, and use only when needed. Again, occasional use of medical marijuana can be helpfulbut shouldnt be your main form of treatment.
Every strain has a different chemical makeup, and as a result, will have slightly different effects. Terpenes, which give cannabis distinct tastes and aromas, are also known to have beneficial properties that help relieve stress, and each strain has its own unique terpene profile. Dont be afraid to try a few different ones to see what works for you!
Can Cannabis Treat Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety occurs when theres an imbalance in the body. Certain parts of the cannabis plant, for example THC, act upon the endocannabinoid system . The ECS is responsible for the bodys homeostasis, or balance. CBD, another chemical in cannabis, not only has anti-anxiety effects, but it also acts on different biological systems which help optimise internal processes.
Cannabiss chemical properties and interactions with the body are how cannabis helps treat anxiety.
You will find conflicting information about cannabis and anxiety. Cannabis is prescribed for anxiety but there are warnings not to use cannabis if you have anxiety or depression. People often think cannabis can cause anxiety but its not that simple.
Cannabiss impact on anxiety has to do with a number of factors which are discussed in our does cannabis cause anxiety article.
Cannabiss impact on anxiety has to do with a number of factors which are discussed in our does cannabis cause anxiety article.
Best Medical Marijuana Strains For Depression And Anxiety Disorders
Some patients might decide to go the medical marijuana card route, perhaps because of another qualifying condition or because the patient lives in a state where anxiety and depression are qualifying conditions. If this is the case, then products that are low in THC and high in CBD are a better choice.
Below are a few of the more popular cannabis strains that are high in CBD and low in THC.
- Charlottes Web
- Valentine X
- Ringos Gift
- Harle-Tsu
- ACDC
- Harlequin
Although anxiety and depression patients cant yet purchase these strains in Pennsylvania, there are many states where marijuana is legal for adults 21 and older. If one were to find oneself in one of these states these would be better options for anxiety and depression patients than strains that are high in THC.
And for those who can tolerate higher levels of THC, here are some cannabis strains that offer a balance of CBD and THC.
- Sour Tsunami
- Stephen Hawking Kush
- Warlock
Not every medical marijuana dispensary carries these particular strains. However, a qualified budtender will be able to point you in the direction of other strains with similar CBD to THC ratios.
Another option would be to buy both CBD-rich hemp flower and marijuana thats high in THC and just mix a little marijuana into the hemp flower. This gives you a high-CBD, low-THC mix at a lower price than if you were to purchase something like ACDC at 20:1 CBD.
Dispensary Updates
Also Check: What Is Feretrophobia
How Medical Marijuana Can Help Treat Anxiety
Research into the use of marijuana for treating anxiety and its associated symptoms has found promise for its use as a substitute for pharmaceutical anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines. Like these pharmaceuticals, medical marijuana may positively affect levels of GABA in the body and brain, a neurotransmitter associated with balancing mood and regulating anxiety. Unlike benzodiazepine, however, medical marijuana has not been found to produce a tolerance in people using it or cause death from overdosing on it.
Researchers have also found that medical marijuana can lower cortisol levels. Cortisol is a neurotransmitter associated with stress, including emotional stress, such as in cases of anxiety. When under stress, cortisol levels are higher. Lowering cortisol levels, therefore, can help to reduce stress, commonly associated with anxiety.
Other Factors To Consider
If youre thinking about using medical marijuana, you should know its differences from standard medicine and consider the following factors:
- Your financial situation: Since health insurance doesnt cover medical marijuana, you must pay the entire price. You must also pay to apply for a medical marijuana card.
- Your state laws: Make sure your state lets patients with anxiety use medical marijuana. Every state has different medicinal cannabis policies.
- Accessibility in your area: Even if your state allows medical marijuana treatment for anxiety disorders, you might not have a dispensary or marijuana-friendly doctor in the area. Ensure you have easy access to your medicine before paying the fees for your evaluation and application.
- Your other health conditions: Do you deal with any other health problems? If youre seeing a marijuana-trained doctor for the first time, bring them up in case there are any interactions or side effects you should know about.
Don’t Miss: How To Get Motivated To Exercise When Depressed
Ma 57 Tallahassee Medical Marijuana Clinic
M.A., 57Tallahassee medical marijuana doctor 2 years on medical cannabis Degenerative Disc Disorder, Osteoarthritis, Fibromyalgia, PTSD, Anxiety, DepressionI live with a 3 level titanium neck. I have severe osteoarthritis. Severe fibromyalgia. Ptsd. Major anxiety. Bouts of depression. I am cane and wheelchair free by the grace of God and his…
Medicinal Cannabis And Cbds
The risks of marijuana smoking and THC vaping are mostly unknown, but no news is not necessarily good news. Many substances, like marijuana, without overdose death risks, are considered safe because we can not imagine all of the ways that they can be dangerous. Of course, edibles have gained in popularity because it is evident that smoking exposes everyone to second hand and third-hand smoke risks. SHS or second hand designation a sanitized way to say exposure to carcinogen-polluted air or intoxication without permission and second-hand tobacco smoke is a significant cause of death each year. Inhaling someones smoke vapors is a major second-hand problem, but there are other concerns like impaired drugged driving. Traffic accidents are increasing in cities and states where cannabis is legal and widely used. A recent study found that individuals using cannabis are worse drivers. Impaired driving ability in tested simulations included crossing the centerline, speeding, hitting pedestrians, and missing stop signs. Study participants who started using cannabis before the age of sixteen fared even worse.
Also Check: Hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia Definition
Enhance Favorable Sleeping Patterns
Medicinal marijuana calms anxiety by helping you to sleep better at night. CBD works differently for various users. This draws the attention of medical experts who help set the record straight on what we should expect.
Self-medication is hazardous and has the potential to cause consequences that may be irreversible. Worse still, it may tamper with your health and render you medically unfit.
Medical marijuana could either be used with other treatments or work best on its own. When using CBD based medication, expect to shake off the terrible effects of insomnia.
Medical marijuana comes in different forms, such as capsules, edibles, oil and so on. A verified physician makes it easier to determine the right CBD products for your panic attacks and sleeplessness.
Its THC content is also useful in helping the user maintain their healthy sleeping patterns for the longest time. This is only on one condition, though they have to be consistent and deliberate about their dosage of the right products.
Anxiety disorders that naturally stem from stage fright as well as fear of large or even smaller crowds can also cause panic, interfere with sleep and sometimes result in loss of appetite.
Studies have shown the credibility of CBD in controlling and reducing the rate at which such instances occur.
Medical Marijuana Vs Anti
When you compare medical cannabis with anti-anxiety pharmaceuticals, how does each medication help? While everyones reaction to a medication varies, they work more similarly than you think. They both work with the same chemicals in your brain.
Doctors commonly prescribe benzodiazepines for people with anxiety disorders. These medications manage the levels of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which balances your anxiety levels. Early studies show medical marijuana can also impact your GABA levels. So, you can get the same results from benzodiazepines and cannabis.
Medical cannabis and anti-anxiety medication have different side effects, tolerance and risks. Many patients quickly build a tolerance to their benzodiazepines, forcing them to take higher doses. In extreme cases, anti-anxiety medication can cause an overdose. Every year, thousands of people die from overdosing on benzodiazepine medication.
Meanwhile, zero people have died from a marijuana overdose. Some folks do build up a tolerance to marijuana and others may have side effects when overdosing on the herb, but taking too much of it doesnt have lethal effects.
Recommended Reading: What Is The Fear Of Puke Called
Does Anxiety Qualify For Medical Marijuana In Missouri
While anxiety disorders are not explicitly listed as a qualifying condition for Missouri’s medical marijuana program, the final decision for approval for medical marijuana treatment for any condition not listed explicitly as a qualifying condition is ultimately by a certified doctor if the doctor believes that medical cannabis can improve a patient’s life, the doctor can approve the condition for medical marijuana treatment.
Anxiety-related disorders are one of the most prevalent medical conditions, affecting roughly 18% of adults in the United States. With the surging focus on mental health in the United States, medical professionals are beginning to better understand how medical marijuana treatment can be utilized to improve the quality of life for patients suffering from anxiety disorders.
Additional Pros Of Medical Marijuana For Anxiety Treatment
As we continue learning more about medical cannabis, were continually finding new ways it serves as a pharmaceutical and natural alternative medicine. Theres increasing evidence that shows medical weed can effectively treat anxiety disorders.
Marijuana has more consumption methods than anti-anxiety medications. You have a variety of delivery method choices to choose from with each one producing slightly different effects. Some cannabis consumption methods include:
You May Like: Distinguishing Schizophrenia From Posttraumatic Stress Disorder With Psychosis
What Medications Have Been Approved To Treat Anxiety In Teenagers
There are medications other than medical marijuana that have been approved by the FDA to treat anxiety-related disorders. When teens are prescribed medication to treat their anxiety, doctors typically begin by prescribing antidepressant medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors . These medications are not habit-forming and have proven beneficial in treating various anxiety disorders among teens. SSRIs and SNRIs carry warnings that they may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, particularly among young people. Although the risk is low, communicate with your teen about side effects so that you will know if they are experiencing any suicidal thoughts. Sometimes benzodiazepines are prescribed to be taken as needed, but these medications can be habit-forming, so its important to talk to your child and their doctor about the risks and benefits.
Getting A Missouri Medical Marijuana Card For Anxiety
If youre struggling to take control of your anxiety, speak to a state-licensed Missouri MMJ doctor immediately about medical marijuana. Your chances of receiving a physicians recommendation may be especially high if you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- You have an anxiety disorder as diagnosed by a psychiatrist
- You currently take or have taken prescribed pharmaceuticals to manage your anxiety
- You have chronic or debilitating anxiety that youve been unable to manage on your own
We make it easy to apply for your legal marijuana card. Dont suffer in silence any longer.
You May Like: Can Going Off Birth Control Cause Depression And Anxiety
Wont Medical Marijuana Make Me Feel More Anxious
You may have heard some people who use medical marijuana experience increased anxiety as a side effect. While this is true, its only in response to certain kinds of medicinal cannabis. While medical professionals and patients recognize marijuanas medicinal purposes to treat and relieve symptoms of many health-related conditions, when it comes to anxiety, there are certain strains of cannabis you might want to avoid.
Marijuana contains numerous compounds called cannabinoids that interact with receptors in your body to provide health benefits. Although it has so many components, we usually focus on the two most prevalent THC and CBD. These two compounds are mainly responsible for marijuanas impact on your health. CBD and THC contain distinct and valuable medicinal properties and have different effects on your body when you take them either individually or together. While THC can cause paranoia and anxiety, CBD promotes a sense of calm.
Whether cannabis medicine will make you anxious or not can highly depend on the ratio of these cannabinoids in your strain. There are two major strains of the cannabis plant sativa and indica. These can combine to make hybrid strains. Sativa strains are higher in THC, and indica strains are higher in CBD.
CBD has inherent qualities for treating anxiety. It doesnt make you high, but it does provide you with many medical benefits.
THC acts as an:
- Anti-nausea
- Analgesic
CBD provides the traits above that THC does, but it also acts as an:
Is There A Typical Dosage Of Cannabis For Treating Anxiety
Cannabis is really a personalised medicine. Because of this, there is really no set dosage. What doctors aim for is the lowest effective dose to treat the patients symptoms.
Doctors always recommend starting low and going slow. They will create a plan for their patients asking them to titrate up with intention and reflection. The patient is responsible, along with the doctor, to understand how they are responding to the cannabis.
Recommended Reading: Can A Panic Attack Cause You To Faint
Some Good News & Bad News: Cannabis Can Reduce And Increase Anxiety
Anxiety is a complicated thing. The amount we know when it comes to medical marijuana is increasing every day. The little research that has been done has shown that cannabis can effectively treat your anxiety if you know where to start. Lets dive into the specifics.
Do you need your MEd Card?
Our State-Licensed Doctors are here to help.
Why Your Mental Health Matters When Using Medical Marijuana
Many people use medical marijuana for psychological ailments, such as PTSD and anxiety. While cannabis can ease symptoms of these conditions, some people may experience additional feelings of anxiety and paranoia so youll need to track your response. If you end up spiraling out, call your doctor right away and be sure to note which strain/brand caused the effect so that you dont take it again.
People with psychoses may wish to avoid medical marijuana as it can increase the risk of or symptoms of these disorders.12
One collection of studies associated heavy use of marijuana during adolescence with increased rates of mental illness and cognitive impairment. This may be due to the endocannabinoid systems important role in brain development. This does not necessarily preclude young adults from medical marijuana use but it should be taken into consideration.
And remember, medicinal or not, marijuana can still get you high. If you dont do well feeling out of control, cannabis may not be the best choice for you.
Also Check: The Meaning Of Phobia
What Can I Do Right Now
The best thing you can do right now is to educate yourself about your own state laws around marijuana. NORML is a nongovernmental organization that focuses on the legalization of responsible marijuana use for adults and serves as an advocate for access to high quality and safe marijuana. You can access state-by-state laws. In addition, can help you find a doctor who is familiar with medical marijuana.
You might also learn about other complementary treatments, such as CBD, alternative treatments, and osteopathic manipulation.
Bottom Line Anxiety Is A Qualifying Condition For Mmj In Some States
Mental health is just as important as physical health and it can be affected by many different forms of stress . Anxiety is one such condition thats very prevalent in the world among people of all ages. It causes some very unpleasant symptoms, but its a very treatable condition with the right approach.
Anxiety patients are typically treated with prescription meds, but medical marijuana may offer the same benefits with fewer side effects. However, not each state where medical marijuana is legal lists anxiety as a qualifying condition for an MMJ card. If youre interested in using MMJ for your anxiety, its best to consult with a professional and check if your state allows the use of MMJ for anxiety disorders.
Disclaimer
The information presented on this page is provided as a public service to aid in education and is derived from sources believed to be reliable. Readers are responsible for making their own assessment of the topics discussed here. In no event shall Leaf Nation be held reliable for any injury, loss or damage that could happen if using or abusing drugs.
About Us
You May Like: Pristiq Versus Lexapro
Side Effects Of Medical Cannabis
While it has numerous benefits, medical marijuana can also have side effects for some patients. Due to marijuanas versatility, a negative side effect for one patient can serve as a benefit for another, such as indica strains tendency to make the user sleepy. So when you consider the pros and cons of marijuana, you must look at it holistically and understand all its nuances.
If you do experience side effects, there are ways to reduce them. Some side effects of medical marijuana include:
Everyone has a different experience with medical marijuana. With the guidance of a trained medical professional, you can minimize side effects and maximize the benefits.
How Medical Marijuana May Treat Anxiety
Multiple clinical reviews have examined the body of cannabis research as it relates to anxiety, and the results have largely been inconclusive. Thats because the various studies have yielded wildly different results due to varying quality and methodologies.
Nevertheless, theres at least some evidence to suggest that medical marijuana may be effective for a majority of patients. One study, published in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience, surveyed more than 400 patients and asked them to rate the effectiveness of cannabis for treating their anxiety symptoms. The survey asked patients to rate their experience using a Likert Scale of 0 to 10 . The average score was 8.03, indicating that patients rated cannabis very highly for managing their symptoms.
The research does have its limitations, of course, the biggest of which being that all results were self-reported. The study notes that more research is needed, but the results do indicate an intriguing trend. Most patients have an extremely positive impression of how cannabis addresses their anxiety.
The reason for the benefit may have to do with how cannabinoids like THC and CBD interact with the bodys endocannabinoid system. Cannabinoids bind to and influence cannabinoid receptors , which in turn influence feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. This process may work to mitigate anxiety in the short term.
Read Also: What Is The Phobia Of Throwing Up Called