CBD and Mental Health

Introduction

May marks the start of Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness and reduce stigma around the importance of emotional well-being. Even as June starts, we want you to be mindful of your mental health. Whether you’re managing everyday stress or long-term struggles, finding the right tools to help manage your mental health can make a big difference. Many people find that cannabis assists them with anxiety, depression, and can improve sleep, particularly in those with PTSD. There is also the potential for cognitive improvement in those with neurodegenerative diseases and psychotic disorders. However, the positive and negative effects can vary based on the person, the amount of cannabis you intake, and how you use it. Today, we are talking about just that, how can cannabinoidal (CBD) support your mental health?

Research and facts

Let’s start by figuring out what supports your mental health. It is a personal journey, and what works for one person might not work for another. Around the world, people use Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) to help manage depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Most people lean towards CBD, as THC can trigger anxiety and paranoia when taken in higher doses. The World Health Organization states that “In its pure state, cannabidiol does not appear to have abuse potential or cause harm.” And a recent study in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology adds: “Acute CBD alone is unlikely to significantly impair daily functioning or workplace performance.” So, if you are considering cannabis as part of your next mental health day, CBD might be a good place to start!

CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a vital biological system found in all vertebrates. The ECS is involved in regulating processes such as sleep, memory, appetite, mood, pain reception, stress response, and immune function. By influencing this system, CBD may induce a sense of calm, reduce inflammation in the brain, and support emotional regulation. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t produce a “high”, which is why many people prefer it for daily use. Many users report feeling calm, focused, and more balanced after incorporating CBD into their routine. While research is still developing, early studies and personal experiences alike suggest that CBD may offer support to those navigating anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders.

The interest in CBD as a medical treatment has grown rapidly in the last few years. Because of this research, a light is being shed on how CBD can help alleviate the symptoms of serious disorders such as Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and even Schizophrenia. In 2019, The Permanente Journal published a study in which nearly all of the participants were given 25mg of CBD in capsule form per day. In the end, the study concluded that 79% of the participants had reduced anxiety symptoms, and 66% experienced improved sleep within the first month of use. The CBD was reported to be well-tolerated, with few side effects. These results support the idea that CBD can be a safe and supportive alternative to over-the-counter medication or other addictive or harmful substances. This is especially true for those who have had ineffective or undesirable results from other treatments.

Practical Use and Precautions

If you are thinking about using CBD in your wellness routine, it is important to consider how and when to use it. CBD comes in various forms–oils, tinctures, capsules, gummies, and topicals–each with different absorption rates and effects. For mental health support, many people start with a low daily dose of CBD oil or gummies, and gradually increase as needed. Consistency is key, and effects may build over time. Whether you’re looking to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, or just help yourself feel more centered, starting with the right product and dosage can make a huge difference. You can explore the full range of options on our online shop!

While many people have had positive interactions with CBD, it is important to approach it with awareness and care. Not all CBD products are created equal–quality, dosage, and ingredients can vary widely between brands. Not to mention, everyone reacts to CBD and hemp products differently. If there are negative side effects, you should stop immediately and consult a doctor. Everyone’s path to wellness is different; no one is the same. If you are curious about alternatives to over-the-counter medicines, CBD might be a great and easy way to start!

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