Here are the potential benefits of cannabis for people with PTSD

Opening a car door used to flood Harry Walker, an artist and filmmaker from London, with intense emotions. After a car accident that left him with a severe concussion and traumatic brain injury, just the thought of driving or being a passenger would trigger overwhelming anxiety, panic attacks, and distressing flashbacks.

“Whenever I got in a car, memories of my accident would come rushing back, causing a surge of adrenaline and a strong fight-or-flight reaction,” Walker explained. “I would experience intense moments where everything around me seemed to fade away, and I would become overwhelmed with panic, fearing the worst. I would get really anxious, even if I was just sitting in the passenger seat.”

Walker was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and prescribed Sertraline, an antidepressant that caused him headaches and nightmares. He decided to try cannabis instead.

“I tried cannabis back in high school, but I hadn’t really used it since then,” Walker reflected. “Since my accident, I’ve turned to using a vape pen and smoking flower to help soothe my nerves. I found that cannabis was really beneficial for me in terms of relaxation and managing my PTSD symptoms.”

Walker has been using cannabis regularly for a year and has experienced significant relief from his PTSD symptoms. “Cannabis worked wonders for my body, helping me restore my mental well-being,” he shared.

Stories like Walker’s illustrate how cannabis can potentially help alleviate PTSD symptoms. Many individuals find cannabis to be a helpful treatment for PTSD, and it is widely used for this purpose. In the UK, there is a medical cannabis program that includes PTSD as a qualifying condition for medical cannabis. Studies have also shown that cannabis can be a beneficial treatment for trauma.

Table of contents:

• Why is Cannabis Considered Effective in Treating PTSD?
  • What Exactly is PTSD?
  • Symptoms of PTSD
  • How Cannabis May Help Treat PTSD?
• How Cannabis Can Be Beneficial for Individuals with PTSD?
• Potential Benefits of Cannabis for PTSD
  • Memory Suppression
  • Anxiety and Stress Reduction
  • Improved Sleep
  • Enhanced Mood and Emotional Stability
  • A Different Perspective
  • Alternative to Conventional Medications
• Scientific Research on Cannabis and PTSD
  • Supporting Evidence from Experts
• Recent Studies and Findings
  • THC’s Impact on the Amygdala and Other Brain Regions
  • Dual Effects of THC
• Potential Risks and Challenges
• The Need for Further Research
• Effective Cannabinoids and Delivery Methods for Treating PTSD
  • Preference for Whole-Plant Cannabis
  • Various Cannabis Delivery Methods
• Specific Cannabinoids and Their Effects
  • CBD
  • THC
• The Complexity of Cannabis Treatment
  • Individual Responses
• Consultation with Cannabis Clinicians
• Conclusion

 

Why is Cannabis Considered Effective in Treating PTSD?

What Exactly is PTSD?

It’s intriguing to note that around 55% of individuals experience traumatic events at some stage in their lives. These traumas can vary widely, from physical accidents or assaults to involvement in combat or disasters, and witnessing the death or injury of others. Other examples include experiencing sexual assault or abuse. It’s completely normal to experience temporary symptoms of stress and anxiety following a sudden event. Over time, many people can bounce back and heal from the impact of the trauma.

However, for some, the impact of the event can persist for an extended period, leading to chronic or persistent PTSD. Approximately 6% of individuals will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. While PTSD can affect anyone, certain risk factors can make some individuals more susceptible. Research suggests that women may be more prone to experiencing PTSD compared to men.

Additional factors contributing to PTSD include a lack of social support following a traumatic event and dealing with other sources of stress, such as the loss of a loved one, job, or home.

Symptoms of PTSD

Individuals diagnosed with PTSD may encounter a wide range of symptoms. To make a diagnosis, doctors look for specific symptoms that have been present for at least a month and are severe enough to interfere with relationships, work, or everyday life.

Some common symptoms adults with PTSD experience include:

• Intense physical reactions, such as a racing heart or sweating, when remembering past events.
• Nightmares and disturbing thoughts.
• Avoiding places, events, or objects that remind them of the traumatic experience.
• Repressing thoughts or emotions related to the trauma.
• Being easily startled or feeling constantly on edge.
• Difficulty sleeping.
• Episodes of intense anger.
• Difficulty recalling key details of the traumatic event.
• Negative thoughts about oneself or the world.
• Distorted feelings such as guilt or blame for the event.
• Losing interest in activities that were once enjoyable.

It’s important to note that young children may experience different symptoms from adults.

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How cannabis may help treat PTSD?

Cannabis is considered effective in treating PTSD for several reasons. The primary components of cannabis, cannabinoids like THC and CBD, interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating mood, memory, and stress.

In the UK, there is a medical cannabis program that includes PTSD as a qualifying condition, recognizing the potential benefits of cannabis in treating trauma-related disorders. As research continues, more evidence supports the effectiveness of cannabis as a treatment option for PTSD, offering hope and relief to many individuals struggling with this condition.

How cannabis can be beneficial for individuals with PTSD?

Memory loss is a common occurrence often associated with cannabis use. Interestingly, this can be beneficial for individuals who have PTSD.

“Going through months and years of dealing with and battling against memories of traumatic experiences can leave lasting scars,” stated Dr. Benjamin Caplan MD, Chief Medical Officer at CED Clinic in London. People who continue to be haunted by memories of violent crimes or wartime experiences are still grappling with their own memories, even years later.

According to Caplan’s research, cannabis, when combined with a supportive environment and mindset, may prove to be more effective and better tolerated than certain conventional treatments for PTSD, like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). He believes that cannabis is particularly well-suited for addressing the intrusive thoughts, negative emotions, and aversive memory components of PTSD.

“THC-derived cannabinoids have a fascinating effect on short-term memory,” he explained, suggesting that they offer a pleasant break from the battles with never-ending nightmares. “Through the combination of a momentary break from short-term memory and the gentle euphoria induced by cannabinoids, even the most intense cases of PTSD can be alleviated.”

Jason Gann, the creator and star of the stoner comedy series Wilfred, shares similar observations. Gann has been coping with PTSD for over three decades, stemming from the traumatic events he endured during his childhood. As a teenager, he initially turned to cannabis as a way to cope with intrusive thoughts fueled by feelings of shame, anger, and worthlessness.

“Cannabis has been really helpful for me in dealing with anxiety attacks, insomnia, and those intrusive thoughts,” Gann shared during his conversation with dispenseroO.club “Using cannabis allows me to achieve a higher level of awareness. It feels as though I’m simultaneously observing my life from an external perspective while still being trapped in my own thoughts. This unique vantage point allows me to distance myself from intrusive thoughts that can become overpowering.”

Gann experimented with antidepressants in an attempt to alleviate his PTSD symptoms, but unfortunately, they proved to be ineffective.

“I’ve experimented with various antidepressant brands throughout the years, but they only seemed to add more complexity to my life,” Gann expressed. “They lose their effectiveness over time, so you need to increase the dosage to feel their effects. Antidepressants may have provided temporary relief from my struggles, potentially preventing me from making a devastating decision. I acknowledge their potential value in certain dire situations. However, I also experienced numerous challenges as a result of taking them in the long run.”

Gann sees cannabis as a way to break free from antidepressants, which were fueling addiction and negative thinking.

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Potential benefits of cannabis for PTSD

Memory Suppression

Cannabis can suppress traumatic memories, providing temporary relief from the persistent and distressing recollections that plague PTSD sufferers. This memory suppression can give individuals a much-needed break from the constant reliving of their trauma.

Anxiety and Stress Reduction

The cannabinoids in cannabis, particularly THC and CBD, can reduce anxiety and stress, common symptoms of PTSD. This helps individuals feel more relaxed and less overwhelmed by their memories and emotions.

Improved Sleep

PTSD often disrupts sleep patterns, leading to insomnia and nightmares. Cannabis, especially strains high in CBD, can improve sleep quality and reduce the frequency of nightmares, allowing for more restful and restorative sleep.

Enhanced Mood and Emotional Stability

Cannabis can help stabilize mood and improve overall emotional well-being. The euphoric effects of THC can uplift spirits, while CBD can counteract feelings of depression and anxiety, making it easier for PTSD sufferers to manage their symptoms.

A Different Perspective

Cannabis can provide a unique vantage point, allowing individuals to observe their lives from an external perspective. This detachment can help them distance themselves from intrusive thoughts and gain better control over their emotions and reactions.

Alternative to Conventional Medications

For some individuals, traditional antidepressants and other medications can be ineffective or come with undesirable side effects. Cannabis offers a natural alternative that may be more effective and better tolerated, providing relief without the complications associated with many pharmaceuticals.

Scientific research on cannabis and PTSD

Supporting Evidence from Experts

Dr. Benjamin Caplan and Jason Gann provide data supporting the idea that cannabis can suppress traumatic memories and alleviate anxiety. Additional studies on veterans with PTSD have indicated that cannabis use may reduce the occurrence of nightmares.

Recent studies and findings

A significant study conducted in 2022 found that individuals with PTSD who incorporated cannabis into their treatment for a year experienced substantial improvement. The findings revealed that these individuals were more than 2.5 times likely to no longer meet the criteria for a PTSD diagnosis compared to those who did not use cannabis.

THC’s Impact on the Amygdala and Other Brain Regions

Recent research offers a compelling explanation for why cannabis, particularly THC, is effective in treating PTSD. In a study involving 71 adults, THC was shown to have a calming effect on the amygdala, the brain region responsible for generating and processing fear. This effect helps the body respond more appropriately to potential threats. People with PTSD often have an overactive amygdala, leading to constant feelings of being on edge, hypervigilant, and hyperaroused.

During the study, THC was found to reduce the activation of the amygdala while increasing activity in other crucial brain areas, such as the medial prefrontal cortex and rostral anterior cingulate cortex. These regions are essential for processing emotions, monitoring conflict, and regulating attention control. Individuals with PTSD often struggle with attentional control, finding it difficult to stay focused on tasks or being bothered by intrusive memories or flashbacks.

Dual Effects of THC

The dual effect of THC on the brain—calming the amygdala and enhancing activity in the prefrontal and cingulate cortices—suggests a positive impact on how people with PTSD react to threats, manage emotional stress, and maintain focus.

Potential risks and challenges

While the benefits of cannabis for PTSD are promising, there are potential risks and challenges associated with its use:

• Dependence and Cannabis Use Disorder: Strains of cannabis high in THC or consumed in large quantities can result in dependence and cannabis use disorder. Approximately 22.7% of veterans using cannabis for PTSD might develop cannabis use disorder.
• Undesirable Cognitive Effects: High THC levels can lead to increased anxiety and other cognitive effects that may be counterproductive for some individuals.

The need for further research

Many experts emphasize the importance of conducting additional clinical research to establish conclusive findings on the effectiveness and safety of cannabis in treating PTSD. While preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence are encouraging, more rigorous scientific investigations are necessary to fully understand the benefits and risks.

Effective cannabinoids and delivery methods for treating PTSD

Preference for Whole-Plant Cannabis

Both Walker and Jason Gann prefer using whole-plant cannabis, which contains a combination of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds, to manage their PTSD symptoms.

“I like using flower, but since I have two kids and don’t want to smoke in front of them, vaping is a convenient and discreet option,” Walker mused. Gann enjoys smoking, particularly joints or a pipe. Smoking and vaping are popular methods for quickly experiencing the therapeutic benefits of cannabis.

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Various Cannabis Delivery Methods

Cannabis offers various delivery methods to meet different needs:

• Smoking: Provides immediate effects and is favored for its rapid relief.
• Vaping: Discreet and quick-acting, suitable for those who prefer not to smoke.
• Edibles: Offer a slower release, usually taking 30-60 minutes to take effect, providing a longer-lasting impact.

“Some people are not looking for a quick solution. Cannabis provides a range of timing options, similar to those found in traditional pharmaceuticals, allowing for both quick-acting and extended-release choices,” Caplan commented.

Specific cannabinoids and their effects

CBD

• Anxiety Reduction: CBD is effective in managing anxiety.
• Memory Suppression: Helps in erasing fearful memories.
• Behavioral Modification: Assists in overcoming the urge to avoid specific tasks or activities.

THC

• Memory Softening: THC can soften aversive memories.
• Nightmare Alleviation: Effective in reducing nightmares.
• Sleep Improvement: Promotes better sleep.

The complexity of cannabis treatment

Caplan advises against jumping to hasty and oversimplified conclusions regarding particular cannabinoids or methods of delivery for PTSD. “The traditional approach of using a single medication to target a specific nerve receptor pathway is not sufficient to comprehend the workings of cannabis,” Caplan explained.

Individual Responses

• THC’s Euphoria: For some, the euphoric effects of THC provide a brief respite from the constant strain and stress of reliving trauma.
• CBD’s Non-Psychoactive Appeal: Others may find the non-psychoactive properties of CBD more appealing.

Consultation with cannabis clinicians

Caplan suggests that individuals with PTSD who are considering using cannabis should consult with a knowledgeable doctor. Instead of using a generic approach, he recommends tailoring the treatment plan to each person’s needs.

“If someone is dealing with PTSD, it would be beneficial for them to consult with a doctor who has expertise in this area. They can provide guidance on different options that can effectively alleviate their individual symptoms and cater to their personal preferences,” advised Caplan. Many people find relief from their pain, anxiety, and recurring memories through the use of various safe options found in the cannabis medicine cabinet.

Conclusion

Cannabis offers a variety of cannabinoids and delivery methods that can be tailored to the unique needs of individuals with PTSD. Whole-plant cannabis, which includes a range of cannabinoids and terpenes, is often preferred for its comprehensive benefits.

Different delivery methods, such as smoking, vaping, and edibles, provide options for immediate or extended relief. Consulting with a knowledgeable cannabis clinician is crucial for developing a personalized treatment plan that effectively addresses the specific symptoms and preferences of each individual.

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Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any THC product.