Medical Cannabis and Anxiety: Finding the Right Balance

How Medical Marijuana Can Help with Anxiety

Anxiety affects millions of people, and while many think of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) as the most common form, anxiety comes in various types, including PTSD, OCD, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Fortunately, research suggests that cannabis may offer relief for individuals struggling with these conditions.

Medical Marijuana for Different Anxiety Disorders

PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that significantly impacts emotional regulation. Research indicates that cannabis can help manage PTSD symptoms by supplementing the body’s endocannabinoid system. Specifically, people with PTSD often have low levels of anandamide, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and stress relief. THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis, mimics anandamide and may help restore balance. Additionally, other cannabinoids like cannabigerol (CBG) have shown anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties.

Interesting fact: PTSD is the only condition that qualifies patients for medical marijuana in every state with an operational medical cannabis program.

OCD

Recent studies have found that cannabis may help alleviate symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Inhaled cannabis has been shown to reduce compulsions and anxiety in some individuals. However, research suggests that the most effective relief comes from high-CBD, low-THC cannabis strains.

Panic Disorder

While research on cannabis for panic disorder is still in its early stages, one ongoing clinical trial at the University of Texas at Austin is exploring whether CBD oil can help prevent and treat panic attacks. The results could provide valuable insights into CBD’s effectiveness for panic disorder.

Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)

Cannabis may also benefit people with social anxiety disorder. A clinical study found that CBD helped reduce anxiety during public speaking, a common trigger for individuals with SAD. Although further research is needed, many states recognize social anxiety disorder as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana use.

Best Ways to Use Medical Marijuana for Anxiety

Consumption Methods

• Topicals: A great option for beginners, topicals are applied to the skin and generally do not produce psychoactive effects.

• Sublingual Tinctures: A drop or two of a cannabis tincture under the tongue can offer quick and measured relief.

• Smoking or Vaping: Provides fast-acting effects, but should be approached cautiously, as high THC levels may trigger anxiety in some individuals.

• Edibles: While effective, edibles can be unpredictable and long-lasting, making them less ideal for people with anxiety.

Best Cannabis Strains for Anxiety

A balanced THC-to-CBD ratio is often recommended. Some popular strains for anxiety include:

• 1:1 THC:CBD Strains: Cannatonic and ACDC provide mild euphoria and relaxation.

• Blue Dream: A hybrid strain that offers calming effects.

• Northern Lights & Granddaddy Purple (GDP): Indica strains known for their relaxing properties.

• Dragon Fruit: A strain with calming and uplifting effects.

Strains high in terpenes like humulene, linalool, and alpha-pinene may also enhance relaxation. However, sativa strains high in tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) should be used cautiously, as they can cause a rapid heart rate and heightened anxiety in some users.

Dosing Considerations

• Avoid high-THC products: CBD helps counteract THC’s potential to increase anxiety.

• Microdosing: Small amounts of THC may be beneficial without overwhelming effects.

• Consult a medical professional: A healthcare provider can guide dosing based on individual needs.

Potential Risks of Using Cannabis for Anxiety

While cannabis can be helpful, there are some risks to consider, especially for individuals under 25 or those new to cannabis. Overconsumption of THC can lead to heightened anxiety or paranoia. To reduce risks, avoid edibles and consider CBD-dominant products.

CBD as an Alternative for Anxiety

CBD offers anti-anxiety benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC. Research suggests that CBD can also help manage pain, inflammation, and even addiction. However, individuals taking medications like blood thinners or seizure treatments should consult a healthcare provider before using CBD.

Additional Anxiety Management Strategies

Medical marijuana can be a helpful tool, but it’s often most effective when combined with other treatments:

• Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be highly effective in managing anxiety disorders.

• Medication: Prescription medications like Xanax and Valium can provide relief but may have unwanted side effects or risks of dependency.

• Lifestyle Changes: A healthy diet, exercise, mindfulness, and limiting alcohol and caffeine intake can significantly improve anxiety symptoms.

The Bottom Line on Cannabis and Anxiety

Cannabis can be a valuable treatment for anxiety, but its effects vary from person to person. While THC can worsen anxiety in some cases, CBD is a promising alternative with fewer risks. A thoughtful approach to strain selection, consumption method, and dosing is essential for a positive experience.

Ready to Explore Medical Cannabis for Anxiety?

If you’re considering medical marijuana for anxiety, obtaining a medical cannabis card is the best way to ensure safe and legal access. At ElevateCareNP, we provide expert medical cannabis certification to help you find the right treatment plan for your needs.

Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward relief!

Sources:

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NYU Langone Medical Center. (2013, May 14). Brain-imaging study links cannabinoid receptors to post-traumatic stress disorder: First pharmaceutical treatment for PTSD within reach. ScienceDaily.

Mauzay D, LaFrance EM, Cuttler C. Acute Effects of Cannabis on Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. J Affect Disord. 2021 Jan 15;279:158-163. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.09.124. Epub 2020 Oct 6. PMID: 33049434.

Szejko N, Fremer C, Müller-Vahl KR. Cannabis Improves Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder-Case Report and Review of the Literature. Front Psychiatry. 2020 Jul 21;11:681. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00681. PMID: 32848902; PMCID: PMC7396551.

Bergamaschi, M. M., Costa Queiroz, R. H., Nisihara Chagas, M. H., De Martinis, B. S., Kapczinski, F., Quevedo, J., Roesler, R., Schröder, N., Nardi, A. E., Martín-Santos, R., Cecílio Hallak, J. E., Zuardi, A. W., & S Crippa, J. A. (2011). Cannabidiol Reduces the Anxiety Induced by Simulated Public Speaking in Treatment-Naïve Social Phobia Patients. Neuropsychopharmacology, 36(6), 1219. https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2011.6

The information in this post is intended for educational purposes only. This information neither substitutes for nor replaces professional legal or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. No content on this site should ever be regarded as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.