Can Marijuana Cause Anxiety?
When it comes to marijuana use and feelings of anxiety, several case studies have shown positive results in alleviating symptoms associated with the condition. Matching the right strain and dosage to suit the individual’s specific needs has shown to be an effective method of treatment. This form of treatment may not be for everyone, however, and ingesting too much marijuana may actually reverse the positive effects the drug has on controlling the symptoms.
Modern medical studies have identified cannabidiol, widely known as CBD, as the chief ingredient in treating anxiety. It does so by interacting with the body’s Endocannabinoid System, or EDS. The EDS offers a direct pathway for cannabinoids to the portion of the brain which is responsible for anxiety, pain control, pleasure sensory, mood, and coordination. While the effects of CBD have largely been associated with the calming effect marijuana has on users, its counterpart, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is responsible for the psychoactive component of the high users’ experience. It has been found that too much THC may have the opposite effect on treatment for anxiety in patients when the dosage is too high.
The factors in judging this connection are complex and vary from individual to individual. Personality, gender, genetic make-up, history of paranoid episodes and other considerations have to be taken into account. These can be complicated further by other factors, such as frequency of use, dosage and levels of cannabinoids in the strain.
While every individual’s situation is different when it comes to symptoms of anxiety and marijuana use, some researchers have found that people who use cannabis regularly tend to experience a decrease in anxiety, while occasional and new users were more likely to have more paranoid feelings.
When it comes to anxiety issues, age, too, can be a factor. The U.K.’s Royal College of Psychiatrists reports that with their developing brains, teenagers, especially young teenagers, are at a greater-than-average risk of developing a psychotic illness, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, when using self-prescribed marijuana.
Always consult with a marijuana-friendly doctor prior to self-medicating. While marijuana has been shown to reduce the symptoms of anxiety in certain patients, it may not be right for you. Choosing the correct strain and understanding the proper dosage should be left in the hands of a medical practitioner.
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