Using Medical Marijuana for Anxiety
5 Minute Read from Dr. Erich Schramm
Did you know that 40 million Americans suffer from anxiety?
In the 23 years I’ve practiced medicine, anxiety and stress are one of the most common concerns I’ve helped my patients with. We know that chronic stress can lead to anxiety. Anxiety can manifest in many ways. Perhaps it is generalized anxiety, panic attacks, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or phobias.
Chronic stress can keep us unbalanced and disturb sleep. This can significantly affect your energy levels during the day, compromising your ability to stay focused and productive. Chronic anxiety often makes us irritable and can significantly negatively affect our personal and professional relationships. We know that chronic anxiety can lead to depression.
I’ve noticed that most of my patients prefer not to start or continue medications such as anti depressants, anti anxiety meds or sleep aids. They each can have potentials for negative side effects, such as weight gain, sexual disorders, and the possibility of addiction.
Medical marijuana can help alleviate symptoms of chronic anxiety, especially PTSD. One of the advantages of using cannabis in a medical setting is that there is virtually little to no potential for addiction. Most side effects can be mitigated by adjusting the compositions of CBD and THC.
Using medical marijuana promotes relaxation of both mind and body through the endocannabinoid system, the body’s own natural cannabis network. These receptors are found throughout the body, including the brain and gut. This relaxation response helps restore balance and alleviate anxiety symptoms.
I’ve helped many patients improve their quality of life that had been affected by chronic anxiety. Alleviating the symptoms of anxiety without side effects can be liberating and empowering. This is my area of expertise- empowering patients to make the most appropriate choices in medical marijuana based on their symptoms.
If you are one of the 40 million Americans suffering with symptoms of anxiety, know that you are not alone. Balancing life’s many ups and downs can be challenging. Consider adding medical marijuana as a way to create more balance in your life. Schedule an appointment with me today. I can help you make empowered and educated decisions.
