Medical Marijuana for Anxiety | Solevo Wellness

Anxiety continues to be a disorder that plagues many across the nation. Anxiety does not discriminate — it knows no age, gender, religion, or sexual orientation.

While it is normal to experience occasional anxiety, those that suff er from an anxiety disorder have persistent and recurring intrusive thoughts and concerns. This aff ects their daily life, as some avoid situations completely out of worry or fear. There are several types of anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Often, those that suff er from anxiety disorders can also suff er from depression concurrently.

One such treatment option is medical marijuana, and Pennsylvanians can obtain a medical marijuana card to treat anxiety.

Marijuana is made up of cannabinoids. These compounds act on various receptors in the brain that play an important role in various bodily processes, such as memory, perception of pain, mood, and appetite. The two most commonly known cannabinoids are CBD and THC:

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a nonintoxicating compound used as therapy and treatment for a large range of medical conditions.

THC, or Tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive compound associated with the euphoric eff ects of cannabis.

Strains of cannabis exhibit certain characteristics and can often be blended to produce certain eff ects. The most common way to think about strains is to consider the similarities and diff erences between indica vs. sativa.

Sativa strains can increase serotonin levels and elevate mood, stimulate focus and creativity, and can be known for an “energizing” eff ect.

Indica strains can stimulate appetite, promote muscle relaxation, and are known for the “couch-lock” eff ect.

It has been shown that marijuana, specifi cally CBD-dominant strains, can off er temporary relief for anxiety. When using medical marijuana to treat anxiety, strains with a high level of CBD and a lower level of THC tend to be most eff ective. Of particular note, CBD has been shown to reduce anxiety symptoms. Several 2019 studies showed that CBD reduced or improved anxiety and symptoms in patients with a variety of anxiety disorders. Prior to using marijuana for anxiety, be sure to consult your treatment team.

At Solevo Wellness, the health and wellness of our patients is our fi rst priority. Patients have the option of reserving medical marijuana online or walk in, no appointment needed.

If you have additional questions, please visit us at www. solevowellness.com or follow us on Facebook and direct message our team anytime. See our ad on page 73