What You Need to Know About Weed for Anxiety and Depression
Cannabinoids are ideal for treating depression by stimulating neurogenesis. Research shows that stress causes depression by suppressing the production of new nerve cells in the limbic systems of the brain. The production of these new nerve cells is called neurogenesis. This process creates new cells and new memories to be able to move on from the stressful ones that ultimately cause depression.
Cannabinoid receptors are also part of the limbic system. The network of these biochemical machines is called the endocannabinoid system. It processes the body’s own endocannabinoid– anandamide, as well as cannabinoids from cannabis such as THC, CBD and cannabis terpenes.
Cannabis boosts neurogenic brain cell growth which coincides with less negative bias in emotional processing, as long as the doses used are lower or appropriate. Too much THC, which over activates the CB1 receptor and stimulates the midbrain areas will remove emotional inhibitions opening your brain to receive more stress, fear and anxiety.
Which is Better, THC or CBD?
As you shop online for the right balance, notice that all of the reputable dispensaries list the levels of THC to CBD. Both compounds interact with and influence your receptors and influence your depression and anxiety levels. THC is capable of reducing anxiety when taken in small doses. If a higher dose is taken, or more than is required is taken, THC can cause elevated levels of anxiety. So, in an effort to lower your level of depression, be careful not to elevate your anxiety level. Other studies indicate that CBD is more effective and more consistent in reducing the symptoms of anxiety. The neuroscientist Carl Stevenson claimed that higher doses of THC were more dangerous in this way than higher doses of CBD.
We suggest that you try certain hybrid strains that temper the THC with CBD and use them responsibly. Strains such as Blue Dream, Jack Herer, or Harlequin are the ones to look for. Strains high in terpene limonene are great for mood elevation.
Current Research
Research supports the idea of paying attention to the THC/CBD balance of the strain you are choosing to use. Choosing to smoke instead of ingesting, strains tested at Washington State University that were low in THC and high in CBD revealed that one puff was enough to show success in reducing signs of depression. Two puffs were enough to reduce the signs of anxiety. Also, research shows that women report a greater decrease in symptoms of depression and anxiety than men.
A recent study at Buffalo University in February of 2015 found that cannabis may be effective in reducing depression that results from chronic stress. It has been acknowledged by doctors that people who use cannabis for depression or anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts, only appear depressed, as a result of the effects of the high on their feelings and emotions, not actual depression.
What Other Steps Can Be Taken?
There are also other steps you can take, other than weed consumption, that addresses the symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Stay engaged. Structure and organize an activity that stimulates you.
- Be in someone else’s company. Isolation is not advisable.
- Take a break. This is probably not a good time to add extra responsibilities and stress-producing tasks to your schedule. If you’re feeling down or anxious, just relax more.
- If you feel that your situation is worsening, seek out mental health groups. Your church or your employer may have programs to try.
Canna Wholesalers Wants You to Know
Some older studies addressing cannabis and depression aren’t just misleading, they are mistaken. Cannabis can help with depression and anxiety if taken responsibly. If you start exploring different strains and balances of THC to CBD, and look for strains higher in terpene, and also govern your intake, most likely you will see results.
For people who are dealing with depression or anxiety in a country that has legalized weed, you can buy weed online. This is where we come in. Canna Wholesalers, in Vancouver BC, is the easiest, highest quality online source, and is the most cost-effective way to buy your weed. Contact us and we will help guide you in the right direction.