Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Marijuana
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychological condition that occurs following a traumatic event such as combat, sexual assault, and abuse. It is characterized by feelings of fear, nausea, dizziness, depression and/or sleep disturbances that persist for several weeks or longer after the harrowing experience.
In many cases, medication and cognitive behavioral therapy are recommended to treat PTSD and provide symptomatic relief. While these techniques may be helpful for some, they are ineffective for others.
Fortunately, research has demonstrated the benefits of medical cannabis for the treatment of PTSD. While studies are ongoing, here’s what is currently known about medical marijuana and PTSD.
What Are the Characteristics of PTSD?
Although each individual may present differently, there are three key characteristics of PTSD that are often observed. They include re-living of traumatic events, increased arousal, and avoidance, which is why it’s so closely linked to veterans.
Medical Marijuana – How Does It Work?
When it comes to understanding the therapeutic effects of medical marijuana, we must take a closer look at the endocannabinoid system in the brain. This complex network contains receptors which are activated by specific neurotransmitters, including anandamide.
When anandamide and other chemical messengers bind to these receptors, they can suppress memory of stressful events and alleviate anxiety.
With that being said, studies have shown that individuals with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder tend to have lower levels of anandamide and a greater amount of cannabinoid receptors.
Accordingly, medical marijuana is able to mimic the effects of anandamide and activate cannabinoid receptors to produce anti-anxiolytic, hypnotic, and mood-elevating effects.
What PTSD Symptoms Can Medical Marijuana Alleviate?
Evidence has demonstrated a positive connection between medical marijuana and PTSD symptoms. More specifically, cannabis products with high levels of CBD have been shown to decrease anxiety and stress, while also boosting mood.
In addition, medical marijuana’s ability to decrease REM sleep (the stage during which vivid dreaming takes place) may be able to help reduce nightmares associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder .
Finally, many women and men who suffer from PTSD experience bouts or ongoing insomnia. THC is a cannabis compound that can not only decrease the time it takes to fall asleep, it can also improve the quality of sleep.
Learn More About Medical Marijuana
If you would like additional information about medical marijuana and PTSD, please contact Dispensary Works today.
