Patients Turn to Cannabis for Better Mental Health, Expert Insights -

(Newswire.net — April 9, 2024) — An increasing number of patients are turning to cannabis to manage their mental health concerns. Many people have reported using it to self-medicate and feel better from mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and mania.

With a growing body of research supporting its efficacy, cannabis Vancouver has emerged as a promising option for individuals seeking relief from conditions like anxiety and depression. But what more experts are saying about this claim? How does cannabis help boost mental health?

Key Takeaways:

THC and CBD have positive effects on mental health.
There are effective approaches to using cannabis.
Discover the recommended Indica strains for anxiety relief.

Cannabis and Mental Health: The Research

According to Dr. Elizabeth Cairns, a Senior Lecturer at Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics at the Brain and Mind Centre, medicinal cannabis isn’t usually the first treatment choice. People trying it for anxiety and depression likely didn’t find success with other therapies.

Several studies clear the potential benefits of cannabis in alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression. One study involving Canadian medical cannabis patients found that the use of cannabis led to significant improvements in depression and anxiety levels at both 12 and 18 months after initiation. This evidence highlights the long-term efficacy of cannabis in managing these common mental health disorders.

Researchers further identified a link between cannabis consumption and reduced levels of anxiety and stress. Another study highlighted how cannabis could modulate the body’s stress response, offering a potential avenue for anxiety management.

The Role of CBD in Anxiety Management

Central to the therapeutic effects of cannabis is cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating compound that has gained acclaim for its anxiolytic properties. CBD connects with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates stress and emotional responses.

Studies have demonstrated the potential of CBD in mitigating anxiety symptoms and other mental health issues across various contexts. From social anxiety to generalized anxiety disorder, CBD has shown promise as a safe and effective intervention.

The Role of THC for Better Mental Health

THC is the compound in cannabis that makes it known as a psychoactive drug, causing feelings of euphoria, reduced anxiety, and relaxation. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which controls pain, appetite, and stress responses, according to Daniele Piomelli, Ph.D., from the University of California, Irvine.

Endocannabinoids help relieve anxiety. Research shows that people who’ve experienced high stress or trauma, like those with PTSD, produce fewer endocannabinoids. Smoking marijuana can help stimulate these missing chemicals, providing some insight into why it relieves stress for some patients.

Navigating Cannabis Use for Mental Health

While cannabis in Vancouver holds promise as a complementary routine to mental health management, patients need to approach its usage mindfully. Here are several considerations for individuals considering cannabis as part of their treatment regimen:

Consultation with Healthcare Professionals

Prior to initiating cannabis therapy, individuals should consult with healthcare professionals, especially those knowledgeable about medical cannabis. A comprehensive assessment can help determine suitability and optimize treatment plans.

Strain Selection

Different cannabis strains contain varying cannabinoids and terpene levels, which can influence their therapeutic effects. Patients should explore strains with balanced cannabinoid profiles suited to their specific needs.

Dosage and Administration

Achieving therapeutic benefits while minimizing adverse effects requires careful dosage titration. Patients must start with low doses and gradually increase as needed while also considering the method of administration (e.g., inhalation, oral ingestion, topical application).

Regular monitoring of symptoms and treatment response is essential for refining cannabis therapy. It’s advisable for patients to communicate openly with their medical providers to make informed adjustments to their treatment plans.

Recommended Indica Strains to Boost Mental Health

Here are various Indica strains you may want to consider:

Strains	THC	CBD	Description
Kush Cookies	24.00-30.00%	0.00-0.30%	Perfect for elevating mood and promoting mental wellness. Blends GMO CKS and OZ Kush with savory herbs, spicy earth, and citrus aroma.
Wappa	19.00-25.00%	0.00-0.10%	Skunky, fruity aroma from myrcene and caryophyllene. THC levels of 23-29% are popular for mental health relief. Natural flavor and moisture for cannabis fans.
Wedding Cake	21.00-31.00%	0.00-1.00%	Rich in THC with dense buds and frosty trichomes. Sweet, fruity, earthy flavors with a hint of vanilla.
Slurricane	17.00-21.00%	0.00-1.00%	THC content is 25-31% with terpenes Caryophyllene and Limonene. The sweet flavor of sugary berries, grapes, and butterscotch.
Organic Death Bubba	22.00-28.00%	0.00-1.00%	Potent Indica blend with pine and musk flavors. Hang-dried for 14 days and cold-cured, providing a classic Kush experience.

Bottom Line

Cannabis is becoming more popular as more states legalize its use for recreational or medicinal purposes. Though more research is needed, many studies suggest it can potentially be an effective and safe treatment when used correctly with expert guidance. Using reliable cannabis in Vancouver, like Sea to Sky Cannabis products, also contributes to the positive effects on mental health.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Cannabis work?

When you smoke cannabis, it enters your bloodstream quickly and affects your mood and behavior by attaching to receptors in your brain. Eating cannabis takes longer to have an effect as it goes through your stomach and liver first. Cannabis has different chemicals called cannabinoids, like CBD and THC. THC is the main active ingredient, and the more THC in cannabis, the stronger the effect.

How to administer cannabis?

Cannabis can be administered in several methods, including:

Inhalation: Cannabis can be smoked or vaporized for inhalation, providing a rapid onset of effects.
Oral ingestion: Medical cannabis can be consumed orally through edibles or oils, offering a longer-lasting effect compared to inhalation.
Sublingual administration: Some products are designed for sublingual use and placed under the tongue for absorption into the bloodstream.
Topical application: You can apply cannabis-infused creams or patches directly to the skin for localized relief from symptoms.

What are the potential health benefits of using cannabis?

The use of cannabis comes with several potential health benefits, such as:

Pain Relief: Cannabis may help ease chronic pain, including nerve pain and pain from conditions like multiple sclerosis.
Anxiety and Depression: Some individuals find relief from anxiety and depression symptoms when using cannabis.
Improved Sleep: Cannabis might help improve sleep and reduce insomnia for some individuals.
Increased Appetite: Cannabis can boost appetite, which can be helpful for those experiencing appetite loss due to medical conditions or treatments like chemotherapy.
Anti-inflammatory: Cannabis contains compounds that can reduce inflammation, potentially helping with inflammation-related conditions.
Epilepsy Treatment: Certain types of medical cannabis, especially those with CBD, show promise in reducing seizures for people with epilepsy.
Neuroprotective Effects: Research suggests that cannabis compounds may protect the brain, offering potential benefits for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.