The Use of Marijuana for Anxiety

Anxiety is usually a normal reaction. It is a feeling of tension, nervousness, worry, or fear that relates to specific situations or events. In severe situations, you may also experience physical symptoms. If you do and they happen consistently, you may have an anxiety disorder.

Symptoms of Anxiety

An estimated 31.1% of adults in the United States experience an anxiety disorder. The symptoms of this disorder are emotional, mental, and physical. They include:

• Worry.
• Restlessness.
• Irritability.
• Difficulty sleeping.
• Lack of concentration.
• Shortness of breath.
• Increase in heartbeat.
• Sweating.
• Dizziness.
• Nausea.

What Is Marijuana?

Its scientific name is Cannabis sativa. It is a plant that people use for recreational and medical purposes. It comprises about 120 active compounds. The most abundant are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD is the nonpsychoactive compound, while THC is the psychoactive compound.

CBD has a range of therapeutic purposes, while THC is responsible for the high from marijuana. In recreational use, it can trigger feelings of relaxation and euphoria.

Can Marijuana Treat Anxiety?

Many people use marijuana to deal with anxiety. Several studies show a reduction in anxiety symptoms, especially in CBD form. CBD interacts with the brain by triggering changes in blood flow to regions that cause feelings of anxiety. The interaction suggests that CBD oil can help treat anxiety.

How Does It Help?

Many of those who use marijuana for their anxiety report they have peace of mind. It is also able to reduce symptoms that they normally would find unbearable. Other common benefits are:

• Relaxation.
• Increase in a sense of calmness.
• Better sleep.
• Reduction in symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Reduction in panic attacks.

Tips for Safe Use

To reduce the risk of worsening your anxiety, make sure you take precautions. Go for products that have a higher ratio of CBD to THC. If possible, get products that contain CBD only. Higher levels of THC tend to make symptoms of anxiety worse. Start with low doses and give them time to work before increasing them.

Purchase your products from dispensaries or facilities that can offer guidance on their use. Make sure they have staff with training. They can analyze symptoms and suggest the right type of products that you need. Also, when you purchase your products from dispensaries, you know they are legitimate.

Read up and become knowledgeable on marijuana and its products. Get to know how it interacts with other medications or supplements. Sometimes it can reduce the effectiveness of these medications and supplements. Let your doctor or health provider know that you are using marijuana products. You can also talk to your pharmacist about it if you feel more comfortable with them.

Marijuana shows possible benefits in treating anxiety disorders. In particular, the products with CBD only or higher CBD to THC ratio. Be cautious as you try to use it. Get a therapist with training to help you monitor and evaluate. They will be able to offer additional guidance and tell you how well it is working for your symptoms.

For more information on marijuana and its use in treating anxiety, visit WellGreen Cannabis at our office in Palm Coast, Florida. You can call (386) 585-4866 today to schedule an appointment.