Cannabis and Anxiety

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Date: July 13, 2022

It is estimated that just over 19% of adults in the U.S. suffer from some form of anxiety disorder, and the National Institute of Mental Health estimates that over 30% of people in the United States will suffer from some form of anxiety during the course of their lives. Given the fact that modern life is moving ever faster and people are being exposed to increasingly alarming media reports on everything from natural disasters to the lingering threat of a global pandemic, there is no reason to believe that this figure will trend downward in the near future.

Traditional treatments have increasingly relied on a variety of opioids. This is becoming increasingly problematic. Addiction to these sorts of drugs has been called an epidemic.

Many of those who suffer from anxiety are increasingly turning to alternative forms of medication, among them the use of Cannabis. However, when taking a closer look at cannabis and anxiety is there evidence to suggest that cannabis is useful in decreasing both stress and anxiety-related symptoms?

Although more peer-reviewed studies are required, there is an emerging consensus that Cannabis can be beneficial to those who are suffering from anxiety - especially social and generalized anxiety. A study conducted at Washington State University in the Journal of Affective Disorders revealed that there does seem to be short-term benefit for smokers of Cannabis when it comes to those suffering from stress, depression, and anxiety.

Cannabis sativa has around 120 active compounds, among these being cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Both of these can lead to feelings of euphoria and relaxation. These feelings can offset the symptoms of anxiety.

As mentioned, much of the research into the effects of Cannabis as a form of treatment for anxiety is ongoing. However, it is worth noting that a 2010 study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology showed that oral use of CBD oil significantly reduced the symptoms of those with social anxiety disorder. Interviews conducted in 2018 also revealed that over 58% of cannabis users reported a lessening in feelings of anxiety. It is also interesting that the female participants in the study reported a greater reduction in the common symptoms related to anxiety disorders. 

For those who want to explore an alternative treatment - strains such as Jack Herer, Sour Diesel, and Girl Scout Cookies which are sold at Jamestown Center Dispensary may offer some relief from the symptoms related to stress and anxiety.

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