PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) also known as PTSS (Post-Traumatic Stress
Syndrome) is a severe mental health condition suffered by many individuals.
This condition is characterized by recurrent nightmares which are difficult to
stop even with prescription medications.
The US has a high rate of PTSD sufferers and an estimated 1 in 13 individuals
develop the condition at a certain stage in their lives. The military has one
of the highest rates of PTSD sufferers because of their experiences during
wars. It's estimated that about 11%-30% of veterans experience PTSD at some
point in life.
What Is PTSD?
PTSD is a psychological condition that results from a disturbing or horrific
incident. PTSD is common in individuals with past experiences with
interpersonal trauma, and its chances are high when the person experiences the
event repeatedly.
The symptoms of Post-traumatic stress disorder are more severe in women than in
men. Some individuals can experience it only for some time while others
experience it for several years. PTSD can make life difficult by affecting well-being,
mental state, and work. Sufferers are forced to quit school and work due to the
difficulties that come with the condition. If not treated immediately, PTSD can
lead to depression, and suicide.
How can Medical Cannabis Relieve PTSD Symptoms?
Medical cannabis binds with endocannabinoid receptors found in different parts
of the body and helps to prevent the traumatic events that lead to PTSD.
Medical marijuana can help promote sleep and relaxation in PTSD patients.
The endocannabinoid system controls memory building and stress response which
are the major elements of PTSD. The CB1 receptor in your brain is responsible
for extinction learning, which means that it can replace old memories with new
ones. Therefore, consuming cannabis can remove horrific experiences that make
PTSD more severe.
The main cannabinoids responsible for PTSD relief include CBD and THC. These
compounds work to reduce PTSD symptoms by enhancing several factors of the
endocannabinoid system such as memory retrieval and consolidation. CBD and THC
interact with CB2 and CB1 receptors found in the nervous system, leading to the
production of neurotransmitters responsible for good memory, sleep, and
pleasure.
Cannabinoids can prevent the brain from regaining traumatic memories that cause
PTSD. Consuming cannabis can also improve emotional wellness and quality of
life.
Research on medical marijuana and PTSD
Medical marijuana is considered the best alternative medicine for patients with
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). While research on medical marijuana and
PTSD is still restricted by the federal government, PTSD patients who
previously consumed cannabis for their symptoms have acknowledged the benefits
of medical cannabis in relieving anxiety and insomnia from PTSD.
According to a 2014 study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs,
medical cannabis was found to effectively reduce symptoms of PTSD. The study
showed that PTSD patients who consumed medical marijuana were free from PTSD
symptoms. While current research is hopeful, there is still a need for more
studies on cannabis's ability to combat PTSD symptoms.
Bottom line
While medical marijuana can help to relieve common symptoms of PTSD, limited
research on the subject makes it difficult for patients to use cannabis.
Nonetheless, If you want to use cannabis for PTSD consult your local physician.
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