Recently, it seems that people everywhere, from public figures to everyday individuals, are discussing how cannabis has positively impacted their mental health.

As the plant gains more attention, it’s common to hear about how medicinal marijuana or CBD products have helped others manage anxiety or depression.

Although cannabis has been researched for conditions like pain management and epilepsy, its effects on mental health are still not fully understood. Additionally, concerns around its potential to contribute to addiction remain a topic of ongoing debate.

Let’s take a closer look at what cannabis is all about and whether it truly holds the key to the relaxation and calm that so many are craving.

Understanding cannabis

The cannabis plant belongs to the nettle family and has been growing wild across the globe for centuries.

It is typically found in two main forms: marijuana, which consists of the dried leaves and flowers, and hashish, made from the plant’s resin.

Commonly known by various names, including pot, grass, weed, and dope, it is consumed in different ways. People may roll it into joints, smoke it through pipes or bongs, infuse it into baked goods like cakes and cookies, or brew it into tea.

When cannabis is smoked, it quickly enters the bloodstream, making its way to the brain, where it binds to receptors. These receptors, which are nerve endings scattered throughout the body, react to different stimuli and changes, ultimately influencing mood and behavior.

In contrast, when ingested, it still reaches the bloodstream, but the process takes longer. After consumption, it travels through the stomach and liver before entering the bloodstream, resulting in a slower onset of effects.

Cannabis is rich in cannabinoids, chemical compounds like cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

THC is the key active ingredient in cannabis, and its concentration directly impacts the strength of its effects—the more THC present, the more pronounced the experience.

The effects of cannabis

Cannabis can have both positive and negative effects, with most symptoms lasting a few hours. The duration of these effects often depends on how it is ingested or taken.

While short-term experiences may be mild, regular use over time can lead to unpleasant long-term consequences. The risks are especially significant for younger users, particularly when smoking more potent strains.

Uplifting effects

The substances in the plant can elevate a person’s mood, making them feel happy, relaxed, and more talkative, often leading to bursts of laughter.

It can also intensify sensory experiences, making colors appear brighter and music feel sharper. These uplifting effects are commonly known as a “high.”

The negative impact

Cannabis can offer a variety of benefits, but it can also cause unpleasant side effects. These include hallucinations, mood swings, memory issues, depersonalization, paranoia, and disorientation.

Users may also experience trouble concentrating, slurred speech, sleep problems, and changes in appetite.

How cannabis affects mental health

Cannabis, including THC and CBD, is commonly used to alleviate anxiety, with many individuals reporting benefits such as increased calm, improved relaxation, and better sleep.

Sarah Peace, a licensed counselor, notes that her clients use marijuana to manage conditions like social anxiety, PTSD, panic disorder, and sleep disruptions.

Research supports these benefits, particularly for CBD in reducing social anxiety, and some evidence suggests low doses of THC may also help.

Although the substance is not a cure, it helps many reduce distress, with some experiencing fewer panic attacks or more manageable anxiety in daily situations.

Cultivating cannabis for mental health support

For individuals looking to cultivate their own cannabis to support mental wellness, autoflower seeds are a popular option. These seeds are known for their quick growing cycle, making them ideal for those who want a more efficient way to grow cannabis at home.

Strains like Lemon Cherry Gelato are especially favored for their calming benefits, offering a balanced experience that may help reduce anxiety without causing overwhelming effects.

While cannabis isn’t a complete cure for anxiety or other mental health conditions, it can provide relief by reducing distress, with some individuals experiencing fewer panic attacks or a greater sense of control over their anxiety in everyday situations.

Categorized in: