PTSD: DEPRESSION and ANXIETY

Clients with PTSD who are medical cannabis users are less likely to have major depressive episodes or thoughts of suicide. Compared to with those who do not threat their symptoms with medical cannabis.

Symptoms of Post-traumatic Stress include alterations in memory loss, mood, anxiety, and arousal. Research is actively looking into medications working directly on the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the same system cannabis assists regulating. There is evidence the ECS plays a critical role in regulating the stress response, and fear extinction. Brain regions such as the amygdala, hippocampus and cortex are involved in the regulation of emotional behavior contain high concentrations of CB1 receptors. It has been reported, patients with PTSD have abnormalities in CB1 receptors and low levels of the endocannabinoid Anandamide (AEA).

Anandamide when binding to CB1 receptors can regulate appetite, mood fluctuations, pain management and fertility. Some fertility clinics are utilizing Anandamide as a biological marker for infertility. The molecular structure of Anandamide is very similar to the Phyto- cannabinoid THC (delta-hydrocannabidiol), suggesting that THC is highly therapeutic for this population. By dosing with THC and activating the CB1 receptors in the Amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus the outcome is a potential to decrease aversive memories, fear, intrusive thoughts, nightmares, impulsivity, arousal, and anxiety.

At Canada House Clinics, we have documented improved symptom relief within only a couple weeks of beginning cannabis therapy with this condition. Higher mgs of Indica THC product for those suffering with PTSD have shown great benefits.

A standard treatment plan for our PTSD patients includes a regular daily dosing of CBD with mid- to high THC indica or sativa strains via inhalation (depending on the symptom) for breakthrough throughout the day, and THC oral consumption in the evening. Patients have reported improved anxiety, decreased feelings of hopelessness and sadness, improved sleep patterns, decreased frequency of night terrors, and decreased social anxiety.

CBD does not provide a euphoric feeling, making it an excellent daytime option for depression and anxiety control for those with work and/or driving responsibilities. It does not bind to the CB1 receptors but instead works with another one of our endocannabinoid receptors, CB2. CBD allows better absorption of the neurotransmitter’s dopamine and serotonin, both responsible for sleep-wake cycle, emotional regulation, and feelings of well-being.

At therapeutic levels of both THC and CBD we can see both anxiety and depression in PTSD, can be well controlled. Not only can cannabis help those suffering with PTSD, but it contains fewer side effects compared to the list of pharmaceutical treatments generally used for symptom control. Medical cannabis should be utilized alongside with cognitive therapies, and it may not suit everyone. If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, we highly recommend you speak with your Healthcare Professional prior to utilizing cannabis as an alternative therapy.