The holiday season for most people is a fun time of the year filled with turkey, celebrations, and family and friend gatherings. Media reenforces is a merry good cheer time for everyone. But some some it is a time filled with sadness, self-reflection, loneliness, and anxiety. Marijuana may help holiday anxiety and depression. During the holidays, 62% of respondents to a study described their stress level as “very or somewhat” elevated during the holidays, while only 10% reported no stress during the season.
A Washington State study utilized a data-centric approach using human test subjects to reveal marijuana’s efficacy in treating depression, anxiety, and stress found in everyday life. Published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, the study concluded that “[c]annabis reduces perceived symptoms of negative affect in the short-term, but continued use may exacerbate baseline symptoms of depression over time.”
Utilizing information provided by the marijuana app Strainprint, which helps medical users tracks their cannabis doses and strains, researchers were able to examine how subjects used cannabis within the comforts of their home. As lead author on the study Carrie Cutler told Health Europa, that approach is a departure from previous research around mental illness and cannabis.
“Existing research on the effects of cannabis on depression, anxiety and stress are very rare and have almost exclusively been done with orally administered THC pills in a laboratory,” Cutler said. “What is unique about our study is that we looked at actual inhaled cannabis by medical marijuana patients who were using it in the comfort of their own homes as opposed to a laboratory.”
According to their analysis, the researchers found that marijuana low in THC and high in CBD was most effective at reducing depression symptoms, while high-THC/high-CBD cannabis “was best for reducing perceived symptoms of stress.” Interestingly, the data also showed that women responded with larger decreases in anxiety after marijuana consumption than men.
More specifically, 89,3% of all session saw significant drop-offs with depression symptoms after smoking marijuana. However, 3.2% of sessions had those symptoms exacerbated while 7.5% of session elicited no change. For session tracking anxiety and stress, more than 90% of sessions had significant reduction in those symptoms. Whether marijuana increased symptoms of anxiety and stress, or played no role at all, followed similar statistical patterns as the depression numbers.
“This is to my knowledge one of the first scientific studies to provide guidance on the strains and quantities of cannabis people should be seeking out for reducing stress, anxiety and depression,” Cutler said. “Currently, medical and recreational cannabis users rely on the advice of bud tenders whose recommendations are based off of anecdotal not scientific evidence.”
Anxiety and related disorders are among the most prevalent mental health conditions in the U.S. While antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications can be effective, they also come with significant side effects. As a result, some individuals are turning to alternative treatments, such as cannabis. But using cannabis comes with its own set of risks. “While it can be used as an alternative treatment for certain types of stress and anxiety, cannabis is not a one-size-fits-all solution and may not be suitable for everyone,” says psychiatrist Dr. Amanda Kingston.
After the holidays, January is a tough with returning to a work routine and the weather…but there is something to help.
Th holiday is time of time off, festive actives and anticipation. But starting 2 January, it is back to work and long work days, delayed projects and credit card bills, but there is good news. If you want to be focused and more upbeat, start 2025 prepped and ready with marijuana microdosing. As we look ahead, microdosing marijuana is emerging as a promising method for achieving calm and focus in our increasingly hectic lives. This approach involves consuming small, controlled amounts of cannabis to harness its therapeutic benefits without experiencing the intense psychoactive effects typically associated with larger doses.
Microdosing marijuana allows individuals to fine-tune their cannabis experience, achieving a delicate balance between sensory enjoyment and therapeutic benefits while minimizing unwanted side effects. By opting for carefully calibrated doses, users can maintain focus and functionality throughout the day, making it an ideal choice for work or other daily tasks.
One of the key advantages of microdosing is its potential to alleviate anxiety and stress while promoting relaxation. Studies have shown that low doses of THC can dampen negative emotional responses without significantly impacting performance. This subtle effect can help individuals navigate stressful situations with greater ease and maintain a sense of calm throughout their day.
For those seeking to enhance their productivity and creativity, microdosing marijuana may offer a unique advantage. Some tech workers have reported that small doses of cannabis provide a creative edge, potentially boosting mental functioning and innovative thinking. While more research is needed to confirm these effects, many users find that microdosing helps them maintain focus and clarity without the distracting “high” associated with larger doses.
Each year the cannabis industry continues innovations in microdosing products and delivery methods. Precise dosing options, such as low-THC edibles, vapes, or concentrates, will make it easier for users to find their optimal microdose and maintain consistency in their regimen.
It’s important to note that the effects of microdosing can vary from person to person, and finding the right dose may require some experimentation. Generally, microdoses range from 1 to 5 mg of THC, depending on individual tolerance and desired outcomes.
As always, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating microdosing into your wellness routine. By offering a more subtle and controlled approach to cannabis consumption, microdosing may help individuals navigate the challenges of modern life with greater ease and clarity
And like a holiday blockbuster – people have something new to worry about – but marijuana could come to the rescue.
Blockbuster disaster movies always have something destroying major cities. Now scientist are citing the very real evidence we could have space junk crashing and having a big impact on the planet. Kessler syndrome, proposed by NASA scientists Donald J. Kessler and Burton G. Cour-Palais in 1978, describes a potential cascade of collisions in low Earth orbit (LEO) that could render space activities increasingly difficult This scenario occurs when the density of objects in orbit becomes so high that collisions between them generate debris, further increasing the likelihood of subsequent collisions. It seems with everything sent to space, civilization could be at a tipping point. But cannabis can keep you from freaking out about Kessler Syndrome.
The syndrome poses a significant threat to satellite operations and space exploration. Even small debris fragments can cause catastrophic damage to spacecraft due to their high velocity. As collisions create more debris, the risk of further impacts grows exponentially, potentially leading to a chain reaction that could make certain orbital ranges unusable for generations. While there’s no consensus on whether Kessler syndrome has already begun, experts agree that the concept is valid and requires attention. The increasing number of satellites, particularly large constellations like SpaceX’s Starlink, has raised concerns about exacerbating the problem.
While disaster movies are more dramatic, the idea of space junk destroying Paris, New York or Los Angeles is low. BUT…the real tragedy it could force human to go analog again as it poses a significant threat to space-based activities and technologies. Critically, it could disrupt telecommunications, internet connectivity, GPS navigation, and weather forecasting. And the effects could last for generations, making space exploration and satellite usage dangerous or impractical.
On top of all the other anxiety, this could tip the scale, but research data shows cannabis, particularly products high in CBD (cannabidiol), may offer relief from anxiety symptoms without the risks associated with THC-dominant products.
While both THC and CBD can affect anxiety levels, their impacts differ:
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): This psychoactive compound has a biphasic effect on anxiety. Low doses may decrease anxiety, while higher doses can potentially increase issues.
CBD (Cannabidiol): Studies indicate that CBD appears to decrease anxiety at all tested doses, without the psychoactive effects associated with THC.
When considering cannabis for anxiety management, especially in the context of concerns about the Kessler syndrome, it’s important to note:
Individual Responses: Reactions to cannabis can vary widely among individuals, influenced by factors such as dosage, strain, and personal physiology.
Consultation: It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider or a state-certified cannabis clinician before using cannabis for anxiety treatment.
Complementary Approach: Cannabis should not replace traditional anxiety treatments like talk therapy but rather be considered as a potential complementary approach.
Dosage and Ratio: The ratio of CBD to THC in cannabis products can significantly impact their effects on anxiety. CBD-dominant products may be more suitable for anxiety relief.
Long-term Effects: While cannabis may offer short-term benefits for anxiety symptoms, long-term effects and potential risks should be considered.
if you ever thought you were an actor in the movie, just look at the news – you can’t make this stuff up.
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.