Anxiety, sadness, and post-traumatic stress disorder are just some mental health disorders that medical cannabis has been used to treat for centuries. Recent research found that it benefits mental health and enhances a patient's quality of life. Texas recognizes medicinal cannabis use for treating PTSD and another 150 medical disorders.
The use of medical marijuana in treating mental health issues like anxiety and depression has the potential to be very beneficial. The data thus far shows that it can be a successful supplemental treatment for certain people, while many unanswered questions and more studies must be done.
This blog post discusses what the science says about using medical marijuana to treat mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
What Is Medical Marijuana?
The cannabis plant is used to create a medication known as medicinal cannabis or medical marijuana. Cannabinoids are the chemical components responsible for their medicinal properties and widespread legalization. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the two primary cannabinoids in cannabis.
In Texas, only medical marijuana with a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content of 1% or less is legal. The cannabinoid THC occurs naturally in the cannabis plant. Its psychotropic properties make it helpful in treating problems, including sleeplessness, nausea, and anxiety. It also helps reduce neuropathic pain, a particularly unpleasant type of pain.
Products with low levels of THC that are legal for medicinal use in Texas must be consumed non-smoked. Most of these items are oils that contain both THC and CBD. CBD is another cannabinoid. Lozenges and mouth sprays are also offered.
Marijuana and Mental Health Issues
Limited scientific data and ongoing debate surround the use of medicinal marijuana for mental health disorders. However, medicinal marijuana has been proven in several trials to offer the potential to alleviate anxiety and depression.
According to research published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, CBD provided anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) benefits in patients with social anxiety disorder. The Journal of Affective Disorders released another study showing that cannabis usage is linked to fewer depressive symptoms.
However, medicinal marijuana usage is not recommended as a first-line therapy for mental health problems. Instead, it should be seen as an adjunctive treatment that works in tandem with other methods, such as talk therapy or medicine. Be
How Medicinal Marijuana Functions
Two psychoactive chemicals found in cannabis are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). The 'high' is caused by a psychoactive compound called THC, which is linked to adverse outcomes, including anxiety and psychosis. However, CBD is now being studied for its potential to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, psychosis, nausea, and seizures.
When considering therapies for mental health issues, it is crucial to differentiate between the advantages of CBD and the more contentious usage of THC since these two substances have quite distinct impacts.
Treatment for mental disorders:
Depending on the ailment, current treatment options for mental health issues may include pharmaceuticals like antidepressants and psychological therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy.
There is a continuous study into alternative therapy methods, including cannabis medications, because therapies are not equally successful for everyone.
Potential Mental Health Dangers of Medical Marijuana
There are both possible advantages and dangers associated with using medicinal marijuana for mental health. Addiction is a serious concern for people who use medicinal marijuana. The euphoric ingredient in marijuana, known as THC, is highly addictive. There are other hazards associated with medicinal marijuana usage, such as:
Memory and focus impairments are potential problems for those with mental health difficulties using THC.
Loss of contact with reality characterizes psychosis, a severe mental condition that high THC can induce.
Adverse effects of medical marijuana include dry mouth, drowsiness, and lack of motor control.
Concerns with the Law: Medical marijuana's legality varies by state and those who use it without a doctor's recommendation risk facing criminal charges.
Potential Mental Health Benefits of Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana may have several positive effects on mental health, including:
Those suffering from anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), may relieve their symptoms using medical marijuana.
Medical marijuana has been demonstrated to help those with depression, and anxiety have a better night's sleep and stay asleep longer.
Medical marijuana has been demonstrated to be an excellent therapy for pain, a typical symptom of anxiety and depression.
Some patients suffering from depression have reported improving their mood after using medical marijuana.
Bottom Line
Attention, judgment, and motor skills are all impaired by marijuana usage. Don't handle heavy machinery or drive a car if you've been smoking weed.
Be cautious about using marijuana if you've ever had mental health issues. People with bipolar illnesses who consume marijuana may experience a worsening of their symptoms. Marijuana usage, especially regularly, may elevate the risk of depression and exacerbate its symptoms.
The use of marijuana has been linked to an increased risk of psychosis in those who already have schizophrenia.
It's crucial to use medicinal marijuana cautiously and responsibly and to approach it with prudence. You can decide if medical marijuana is correct by consulting with a skilled healthcare
provider frequently and observing your symptoms and reaction to therapy.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Prescription in Texas
Although Texas has a medical marijuana program in place, it's restrictive and doesn't fully meet the needs of Texas patients. However, there is good news. A comprehensive medical marijuana program is coming to Texas soon!
One of the first ways to benefit from this program when in effect is to secure your marijuana card now. You can book an appointment with one of our qualified physicians, who will put you through the thorough process of acquiring your marijuana card today.
Book an evaluation online today with one of our qualified, compassionate doctors. You'll meet with your doctor virtually using your smartphone or computer for a telemedicine appointment.
Together, you'll discuss your qualifying condition and how you might benefit from medical marijuana without leaving your home! You'll even save $25 off the cost of your evaluation!
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
At Texas Marijuana Card, we aim to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
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