Anxiety is a normal emotion that we all experience. But for some, it is a chronic and debilitating condition. New evidence suggests that cannabis could help manage anxiety disorders and improve quality of life and well-being. In this blog post, I’ll explore the potential benefits of using cannabis to treat and manage anxiety, along with some of the potential risks that come with its use.
What is cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant-based substance used for centuries as a natural remedy to treat different ailments and conditions, such as the pain associated with chronic conditions and autoimmune diseases.
Cannabis contains hundreds of different compounds called cannabinoids. These chemicals interact with the body, producing various effects throughout the body. The most well-known cannabinoids, and perhaps those responsible for their healing effects, are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
TCH and CBD have different effects on the body. THC is a psychoactive compound that gets you high and produces euphoric feelings. On the other hand, CBD produces calm feelings but doesn’t get you high.
What does cannabis do for anxiety symptoms?
THC and CBD interact with brain receptors to produce calming effects, balance moods, and have demonstrated anxiety-reducing properties. They help calm the body’s stress (fight-or-flight) response and lower cortisol (hormones produced during stress) levels. New research also suggests that cannabis can help lower inflammation and also that inflammation can contribute to or worsen anxiety symptoms.
Cannabis has short- and long-term effects on mental health. The short-term effects include feeling relaxed, better concentration and focus, and lower feelings of depression or stress. With regular use, cannabis can reduce anxiety and treat anxiety symptoms. It can promote relaxation, decrease stress and worry, and promote calm and more elevated moods. Also, cannabis can help people experience fewer bouts of depression and enhance sleep quality.
What are some of the side effects or risks of using cannabis?
While cannabis may be a promising treatment option for people living with anxiety, it’s essential to understand the potential risks associated with its use. For starters, cannabis can interact with other medications like antidepressants and those used to treat mood and sleep disorders. Such interactions can make them less effective or cause unwanted side effects. Cannabis’ method of consumption also plays a role in its efficacy. Smoking or vaping provides more immediate results than eating edibles or using oils. Inhaled smoke, though, irritates the lungs and, with frequent use over time, can have damaging effects. Also, not all strains are created equal. So, different cannabis strains can also have varied results. Some have calming effects, while others have the opposite effect and increase anxiety. And for some people, cannabis induces paranoia and even psychosis. Cannabis can also worsen mental health conditions, cause memory problems, and worsen or increase the risks of developing certain medical conditions. Ultimately, when used under medical supervision and along with therapy, cannabis can be an effective treatment option for managing anxiety disorders. People should work with qualified doctors and professionals before self-medicating with cannabis. A qualified professional can offer guidance and resources that help you make informed decisions about using cannabis to relieve your anxiety symptoms. They can also help determine the proper dosage and strain to manage your anxiety symptoms.