Cannabis and Anxiety: It's Complicated
Cannabis has been proven to be a miracle plant in many, many ways. From helping to manage chronic pain and arthritis to preventing Alzheimer’s and seizures, there is no doubt that cannabis has a lot of healing properties. Beyond the physical, cannabis has also been extremely effective at treating bipolar disorder, depression and even anxiety. In fact, many PTSD patients also use cannabis as a treatment method. But wait? Doesn’t cannabis cause paranoia and anxiety, versus treating it? Technically, both are true so let’s break it down.
Cannabis and the Brain As some of you may already know, cannabis reacts to natural cannabinoid receptors found throughout the human body as part of our endocannabinoid system, which regulates immune responses and the release of neurotransmitters. In some cases, THC can actually over-excite these receptors by over-stimulating the amygdala, which is an area in the brain that is responsible for processing emotions including stress, fear and paranoia. This is most common in individuals who are new to cannabis as opposed to longterm, regular users.
It is not completely clear why this occurs. It is believed to be related to how the brain produces neurotransmitters and maintains natural levels, which get shifted with the introduction of THC. With patients who suffer from trauma or have been exposed to excessive stress (PTSD), they tend to have lower natural cannabinoids available, which is why the THC can have a more relaxing effect on these patients, versus other users.
Pre-Existing Conditions
Cannabis users appear to have higher levels of anxiety than non-users, according to a study from 2009. However, most individuals had anxiety disorders that developed prior to cannabis use or dependance. While this may appear to be a cause-and-effect scenario, the reality is that it proves that individuals with anxiety tend to use cannabis as self-prescribed relief. This goes against the idea that cannabis is what causes anxiety. The relationship of cannabis and paranoia or anxiety is also more apparent in beginner users versus regular users who actually see a decrease in their anxiety. Beginners are more prone to the effects of THC, which leads to more potential for paranoia. In addition, paranoia is more likely to occur with high amounts of THC, versus a moderate or lower potency. Anxiety is a highly individualized condition that incorporates a number of factors, including: â—? Personality â—? Gender â—? History of paranoid or panic attacks
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Presence of existing anxiety disorder Base anxiety levels
Some individuals are far more prone to anxiety than others, just based on genetics and family history. When you add cannabis to the mix, there are additional factors to consider such as dosage, frequency of use, cannabinoids present and the chosen strain as well, as different strains produce different effects. While most individuals find cannabis to be an excellent therapy for anxiety disorders and PTSD, only you can know your risk factors and understand your own relationship with anxiety.
Avoiding Cannabis-Induced Paranoia If you believe you are susceptible to cannabis-induced paranoia, or have experienced it in the past, there are some ways you can avoid it altogether: ●
Stick to Low THC High THC has greater potential to cause paranoia and anxiety than low or moderate THC strains. Stick to strains that are between 14% and 20% THC versus going for 25% THC strains. Also make sure to consume THC in moderation to avoid negative sideeffects. Click here to learn more about THC.
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Consider CBD CBD is a non-psychoactive component in the cannabis plant, which means it does not produce a high like with THC. As a result, high-CBD strains or CBD oils can help to manage anxiety and other mood disorders without any risk of paranoia. Click here to learn more about the benefits of CBD.
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Consume in Comfort Another important thing to consider to avoiding anxiety is to consume cannabis somewhere you are comfortable. In most cases, this would be your own home but it can also just be a trusted group of friends. By mitigating any external or environmental triggers, you are more likely to enjoy your cannabis experience.
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Find the Right Strain Another key to combating potential anxious or paranoid side-effects is to find a strain that works for you. Some individuals find that they cannot have Sativa strains as they are too energized and focused - leading to anxiety. Other individuals may have adverse effects from high THC Indica strains. As each person has different brain and body chemistry, strains will affect everyone somewhat differently. Visit your local budtender or do some research online to help you find the right strain to fit your needs comfortably!
With the plethora of cannabis products available to consumers, all it takes is a bit of research to determine what works best for you - and avoid what doesn’t!
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