How Medical Marijuana is Helping People with PTSD

PTSD is an incredibly common mental health condition that can affect people of all ages and backgrounds.

13:22 09 February 2020

Without the proper help, individuals with this condition can experience severe anxiety and depression over time. Because of this, it is important to both identify the underlying ailment and find the best way to go about treating it. Working with a doctor and psychologist can be helpful in reclaiming your life and improving how you feel each day.

What is PTSD?

PTSD, also known as post-traumatic stress disorder, is a mental health condition that can be caused by any type of traumatic event. Soldiers returning from war, crime victims, child abuse survivors and even those who have gone through catastrophic natural disasters can easily develop PTSD as a result of what they have been through. The disorder can cause issues with insomnia, flashbacks, anxiety, depression, loneliness and even guilt. People with this disorder might avoid spending time with family and friends because of how they feel, and they might suffer with depression because of the fear and anxiety that they experience on a daily basis. Without the right help, it can be downright impossible to deal with the disorder on your own.

Why is Medical Marijuana Becoming the Future of Treatment?

Medical marijuana has been shown to be helpful for individuals who have PTSD. The reasoning behind this is because people with this condition are lacking certain cannabinoid chemicals within the brain. By benefiting from both the CBD and THC that is contained in cannabis, individuals with the disorder can alleviate and prevent returning symptoms. Medical marijuana often contains lower levels of THC and higher levels of CBD, so patients are less likely to experience a debilitating high from the drug, but still reap all of the benefits from it.

 

How Cannabinoids Affect the Brain

Cannabinoids are a type of neurotransmitter and they are responsible for a myriad of different brain functions. If you're lacking in one of these chemical compounds, you may experience anxiety, panic attacks, depression, insomnia and even pain. By replacing these chemicals, you're essentially helping the brain to work properly. Cannabis is able to replace these chemicals so that people with PTSD are less likely to experience the symptoms that are associated with the disorder.

How It's Used

First, you will want to obtain your medical marijuana card in order to purchase the products needed from either a local or online dispensary. While you can visit a doctor and hope that they write you a prescription, many people are finding it easier and quicker to simply get their card on the internet. You will just need to fill out a simple online application form and you can be approved for its use in minutes. The card is typically good for one year and will need to be replaced after it has expired. It is important to remember that too much of a good thing can be a problem. While cannabis can be helpful in treating PTSD, it can also aggravate symptoms when taken in larger doses. It is best to try it out for yourself to see what works for you and your needs.