Nearly 50 million Americans are affected by mental health issues annually. Often, these challenges impact their daily life, making it crucial to find effective relief.
Below, we explore the best cannabis strains for managing the symptoms associated with mental health disorders, as well as why they may be helpful.
While cannabis is not a cure-all, many consumers find relief in their go-to strains. Here’s what you can expect when choosing cannabis to support your mental health.
What is the cannabis and mental health connection?
Cannabis affects mental health via cannabinoids interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates mood and stress.
Cannabinoids are a group of naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis sativa plant. Still, they can also be found within the human body and other plants and animals.
The two most well-known cannabinoids are delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD).
THC is responsible for the intoxicating effects cannabis produces, as well as some of its potential therapeutic properties, like modulation of anxiety. CBD is non-intoxicating, but it may also provide some therapeutic benefits, such as reduced feelings of stress.
THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, often inducing feelings of euphoria and relaxation by altering the release of neurotransmitters and reducing stress hormone levels. Practical effects of cannabinoids on mental health include:
- Relaxation: THC helps relax the central nervous system, lowering anxiety and stress
- Sleep improvement: THC can aid in falling asleep and enhancing sleep quality
- Mood enhancement: THC can boost mood temporarily
But what about mental health, specifically?
The cannabinoids in cannabis have the potential to reduce symptoms associated with specific mental health disorders.
But not all cannabis is created equal. Specific strains produce specific results for patients, and some may be more effective for managing mental health symptoms than others.
Cannabis and anxiety: What you need to know
Cannabis affects anxiety through its interaction with the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS). While low doses of THC have been shown to ease anxiety, high doses of THC can sometimes increase symptoms.
Although research is still ongoing, it’s evident the CB1 receptor in the ECS plays a significant role in anxiety responses.
Researchers hope to determine precisely how phytocannabinoids can help regulate anxiety responses.
For now, here’s what we know:
- A 2008 study found that elevated endocannabinoids in women with depression helped to alleviate feelings of anxiety. Researchers concluded that some of the physical responses related to anxiety could be associated with the diminished function of the ECS.
- Subjects of a 2008 study were administered rimonabant, a CB1 receptor antagonist, used in trials for obesity and diabetes. Those who received rimonabant exhibited significantly more anxiety responses than those taking a placebo. This study demonstrated the relationship between the CB1 receptor — of which THC is an agonist, or activating agent — and anxiety responses.
- A 2017 study looked at the effects of THC and CBD and how they both may have potential efficacy in treating depression and anxiety specifically.
When choosing a strain for anxiety, look for varieties high in terpenes like limonene, linalool, and myrcene, and a balanced or CBD-dominant THC:CBD ratio. These terpenes promote relaxation and anxiety relief, while CBD may reduce the intensity of the THC-produced high.
Remember, always start with a low amount and gradually increase until you find the amount that effectively reduces your anxiety without causing any unwanted side effects.
When can cannabis make anxiety worse?
THC affects the brain’s CB1 receptors, altering perception and mood. At high doses, it may induce panic or heightened anxiety. THC can also increase heart rate, which may exacerbate feelings of distress.
To manage these effects, start with low doses or choose a product with lower THC content.
Cannabis and depression: What you need to know
A blend of both CBD and THC is often recommended for those seeking moon enhancement through cannabis.
Research suggests that CBD, when combined with THC, can help alleviate common depression symptoms, such as insomnia, by promoting better sleep.
On the other hand, certain strains like Jack Herer and Sour Diesel may provide the energizing benefits you may need to get out of bed in the morning, so don’t overlook them.
Look for strains with a balance of CBD and THC or even a CBD-dominant strain. Also look for terpenes like limonene and pinene, which are often cited for their energizing and uplifting properties.
Cannabis and PTSD: What you need to know
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition characterized by severe anxiety, flashbacks, and nightmares following exposure to traumatic events.
Research into the effects of cannabis on PTSD is still evolving, but some insights have emerged regarding how cannabis might help manage symptoms and the underlying mechanisms involved.
Here’s what we know:
- A 2022 study found that cannabis, particularly strains high in CBD, could help alleviate PTSD symptoms by improving sleep and reducing anxiety.
- Participants in a 2020 study who consumed cannabis were 2.57 times more likely to no longer meet DSM5 criteria for PTSD at the end of the study observation period compared to participants who did not consume cannabis.
If you’re considering trying cannabis to help manage PTSD symptoms, consult with a healthcare professional to be sure it’s right for you. Cannabis may interact with any prescription medications you’re on, so always speak with a doctor first.
Can cannabis help you focus?
Cannabis may help improve focus, mainly through specific terpenes, including a-pinene, limonene, and caryophyllene.
One study found that adults with ADHD who used medical cannabinoids and terpenoids reported a significant reduction in symptoms, including improved attention and reduced impulsivity.
For people living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety relief is the name of the game.
In one study, patients reported a 60% reduction in compulsions, a 49% reduction in intrusions, and a 52% reduction in anxiety from before to after inhaling cannabis. Higher concentrations of CBD and higher doses predicted larger reductions in compulsions.
Keep in mind that every brain is different, and while some people living with ADHD find THC-dominant strains more focused, others find them to be distracting.
As always, start with lower dosages and work up to find the sweet spot for your symptoms.
Which conditions is cannabis not good for?
It’s important to chat with your healthcare provider before diving into cannabis if you have any pre-existing conditions.
Cannabis is not a one-site-fits-all-solution, and it can interact with various health issues in unexpected ways.
Some conditions to keep be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about include:
- Bipolar disorder: Cannabis can potentially exacerbate manic or depressive episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder. The psychoactive effects may worsen wood swings or make managing the conditions more difficult.
- Schizophrenia: For individuals with schizophrenia or other psychoactive disorders, THC may exacerbate symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia. Research suggests that cannabis can increase the risk of psychotic episodes and worsen existing symptoms.
Which strains are best for mental health?
Cannabis is a highly nuanced experience, and the effects vary significantly from person to person. The impact of different cannabis products and strains is deeply individualized, making it essential to approach consumption for mental health with a personalized strategy.
Factors such as the specific cannabinoid profiles (like THC and CBD), terpene content, and individual biochemistry all contribute to how cannabis may affect you.
Because of this, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best approach is to start with low doses and observe how it affects you.
How to choose a product for mental health
- Define your goals: Are you aiming to reduce anxiety, improve mood, or manage stress? Your goals will guide your choice of product, ratio, amount, and strain.
- Consider the duration of the effects: Some products offer immediate relief (like smoking or vaping), while others provide more prolonged effects (like edibles or tinctures). Think about whether you need short-term relief or a more sustained impact.
- Start low and go slow: Always begin with a low dose to see how your body reacts. It’s easier to increase the dose gradually than to deal with the effects of taking too much at once. Finding the right product and dose might take some experimentation. Keep track of what you try and how it affects you to better understand what works.
- Measure against your mental health: Pay attention to how different products affect your mental health. Are your symptoms improving? Do you notice any adverse effects? This ongoing assessment will help you fine-tune your approach.
Which is The Best Cannabis Strain For You?
If you’re interested in learning more about which strains may help support your mental health, we have cannabis products that might work for you.
Our dispensary has knowledgeable and helpful staff members who want you to get the most out of your cannabis experience and help you select the best cannabis strain.
We look forward to seeing you at Blue Oak Dispensary soon!
