anxiety

Can Cannabis Help My Obsessive Thinking

Published

1 year ago

October 3, 2023

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If you deal with anxiety, you’ve probably already experienced a common symptom of this mental health disorder — obsessive thinking. Individuals with anxiety get stuck in thought patterns of worry. Sometimes anxiety is focused on everyday activities and events, other people might get caught up in fears of unlikely or extraordinary events.

Whatever the worry that plagues you, it can be very hard to get relief from obsessive thoughts. Common treatment methods include medication and therapy, but could cannabis help you make progress in this area?

Cannabis and Anxiety

The relationship between cannabis and anxiety is a complicated one. While 47% of cannabis users report they turn to marijuana to get a break from the anxiety and depression, there are plenty of anecdotal reports of users experiencing paranoia and intensified anxious thoughts.

So does cannabis make anxiety and obsessive thoughts better or worse? It depends. Research suggests that a lower dose of THC, the psychoactive property of marijuana, reduces anxiety but higher doses will make it worse. If you’re looking at a THC-free cannabidiol, however, a high dose will provide more relief.

In 2019, the journal Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research reported the important role the endocannabinoid system plays in obsessive-compulsive disorder. While more research needs to be done, they do believe that cannabis could be used to manipulate the ECS and offer relief from anxious thoughts and repetitive behaviors.

the potential of cbd and cannabis within the anxiety and autism community — Photo by Fernando @dearferdo via Unsplash

Try Micro-Dosing for Relief From Obsessive Thoughts

We don’t have all the facts on using cannabis to treat anxiety, obsessive thoughts, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t give it a try, however. Users with anxiety have reported success by micro-dosing marijuana for an extended period of time. A writer for Cosmopolitan took 2-5mg of THC every few hours over the course reported being significantly more chill over the course of experience.

If this is something you want to try, we suggest starting slow and increasing over time. A tincture or edible will allow control over your THC consumption, allowing you to stick with a low dose when you need it. Remember to give yourself time to experience to full effects of THC to avoiding overdosing and experiencing a high, or increase anxiety that could be a side effect of a higher dose. If you do experience side effects, take a break and try again with a lower dose.

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Not Everyone Has A Happy Holiday But Maybe Marijuana Can Help

Published

4 days ago

December 18, 2024

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From broken hearts to being alone, not everyone is merry in December, but maybe marijuana can help.

It is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but for a portion, it is a rough patch. Whether through the lose of a loved one, illness or being alone, it can be tough for many. In one survey, 10% of those over 55 say they won’t have anyone else in their home this holiday season. Not everyone has a happy holiday, but maybe marijuana can help. Marijuana may help alleviate symptoms of holiday depression in several ways. Cannabis, particularly strains high in CBD, can reduce stress and anxiety associated with the holiday season. CBD interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, potentially producing anti-depressive effects

According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, 38% of individuals report increased stress during this time, stemming from various responsibilities such as shopping, cooking, and entertaining. The pressure to create a perfect holiday experience can lead to feelings of overwhelm and inadequacy when expectations are not met.

Microdosing marijuana can be an effective way to manage holiday depression. By consuming small amounts of cannabis, typically 1 to 2.5 milligrams of THC, individuals can experience mood-enhancing effects without feeling intoxicated. This approach can help ease stress and anxiety. It can also help you reframe the self expectation pressures into things which are more manageable and realistic. Microdosing allows for better social interactions and increased productivity, which can be particularly beneficial during family gatherings.

Additionally, combining low doses of THC with CBD can provide a balanced effect, promoting relaxation and reducing negative emotional responses. It’s important to start with a low dose and adjust gradually, as individual responses may vary.

THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis, can provide temporary relief from depressive symptoms, though it’s important to use it cautiously as high doses may worsen depression. Some users report that cannabis helps them relax, fall asleep more easily, and manage holiday-related grief. When using marijuana for depression, it’s recommended to opt for strains with higher CBD and lower THC content. Terpenes like limonene, linalool, and beta-caryophyllene may also have anti-depressive properties

However, it’s crucial to note while cannabis may offer temporary relief, it’s not a cure for depression. Individuals should consult with a healthcare professional before using marijuana to manage depressive symptoms, especially if they’re already on medication.

There are others ways to manage holiday-related sadness. Recognizing it’s normal to feel sad or stressed during the holidays can help alleviate some pressure.Adjusting expectations about what the holidays should look like can reduce feelings of inadequacy. Connecting with friends or support groups, or even volunteering, can help combat loneliness. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and well-being can be beneficial.

For persistent feelings of sadness or depression, seeking help from mental health professionals is advisable. Understanding these factors and implementing coping strategies can help individuals navigate the emotional complexities of the holiday season more effectively.

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anxiety

A Family’s Guide to Nurturing and Supporting Your Autistic Child

Published

3 weeks ago

December 2, 2024

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Sensory tools like fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones, and weighted vests help with emotional regulation throughout the day. They can be especially beneficial in reducing overstimulation during activities like school, eating, or socializing. It’s a good idea to consult with an occupational therapist to find the right sensory tools for your child.

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American Psychological Association

Can Gummies Bring Down Election Anxiety

Published

2 months ago

October 29, 2024

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Tensions are high, but can hemp, CBD, or cannabis gummies help you relax – especially with microdosing?

The American Psychological Association recent poll should 69% of American’s are experiencing anxiety about the election. Compared with the previous two presidential elections, stress related to the 2024 election was slightly higher than in 2020 (69% vs. 68%) but significantly higher than in 2016 (52%). Stress related to the current election appeared to be driven, in part, by the potential consequences from the election results. The barrage of news, memes, friends complain is making it hard on people’s mind and body. Can gummies bring down election anxiety?

Anxiety can cause feelings of fear, dread, or uneasiness, and can make it hard to concentrate or make decisions. People with anxiety may also feel irritable, tense, or restless, and may have a sense of impending danger, panic, or doom. Not only does it leave you feeling miserable, it can interfere with your job and relationships. A short term solution may come from the cannabis plant. Can gummies bring down election anxiety?

Studies have shown the cannabis plant can help with a variety of medical ailments, including anxiety. A Johns Hopkins Medicine-led research team has added to evidence that a chemical found naturally in cannabis (also known as marijuana) can — in the right amounts — lessen the anxiety-inducing effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive sister chemical found in cannabis.

The cannabis plant produces marijuana (with THC), CBD, and hemp. Studies show all can help with anxiety at some level, but is dependent on dosage. Microdosing a new trend to provide a very low dosage to take off the edge but to stay focused. Most gummies are either 5 or 10 mg. A microcode would be between 2.5 – 5 mg. So a half or third and you can avoid the “high” while reducing the anxiety and moving into a better state of mind.

Marijuana Gummies

Marijuana gummies are a way for adults to cope with anxiety. But you should start with a low dose as you want to have a calming effect with out the extra bells and whistles. Consider 2.5 mg and see how it goes from there….and recognize it will take 45 minutes to an hour for impact.

CBD Gummies

While some CBD gummies products promise and don’t deliver, Epidiolex is the only FDA-approved prescription CBD medicine, which among many things, means that it has a safety and efficacy profile that has been thoroughly evaluated in clinical trials. CBD doesn’t have the THC high as with marijuana so this would completely avoid any high. It is also a popular aide to sleep issues.

Other ways to reduce anxiety during this time is to focus on what you can control and what positive actions you can take. it is also important to set boundaries with how much information you will consume (including social media) and the conversations you will have. Mostly, try to focus on things which help you relax.

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