Understanding Cannabis as a Treatment for PTSD: A Patient’s Guide
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex and often debilitating mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Traditional treatments, including therapy and medication, don’t always work for everyone, which compels many people to look for alternative options. One of those alternatives is medical cannabis.
As research into its medicinal properties grows, cannabis is being looked at to see if it can help with PTSD symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Recent studies have shown that medical cannabis treatment can be particularly effective for patients diagnosed with treatment-resistant combat PTSD.
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
Definition and Symptoms of PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that can develop after a traumatic event. This could be combat, natural disasters, serious accidents, or violent assaults. Symptoms of PTSD can be broken down into four categories: intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, negative alterations in mood or cognition, and hyperarousal.
People with PTSD may re-experience the traumatic event, often in the form of flashbacks or nightmares. These symptoms can be so distressing that they feel helpless or horrified. Cognitive and mood changes may include persistent negative beliefs about oneself or others, inability to experience positive emotions, and emotional numbing.
Additionally, acute stress disorder can occur immediately after a traumatic event and is often associated with PTSD, sharing many of its symptoms. Clinical guidelines recommend early intervention to manage acute stress reactions and prevent the development of PTSD.
PTSD can also present in different forms: acute (less than 3 months), chronic (more than 3 months), or delayed onset (symptoms after 6 months). It can affect anyone, anywhere, so it’s essential for us to be more aware and educated.
PTSD in Daily Life and Mental Health
The effects of PTSD go far into daily life, disrupting sleep, relationships, and work or academic performance. People may experience severe anxiety disorders and depression on top of their struggles.
Untreated PTSD can lead to chronic stress which has been linked to many physical health problems like cardiovascular disease and compromised immune system. PTSD, combined with other mental health conditions, creates a complex web of problems that requires a holistic approach to treatment.
Understanding Cannabis and PTSD Treatment
History of Cannabis for Medicinal Use
Cannabis has a long history as a medicine, with its use dating back to ancient civilizations in Asia and the Middle East. Historical texts document its use for pain and inflammation as well as mental health conditions.
In the US, cannabis was relatively unregulated until the early 20th century, when it was prohibited. This historical context shows cannabis has been recognized as a medicine for a long time, so we can now research and apply it clinically.
Benefits and Risks
The benefits of cannabis for PTSD treatment can be significant, including anxiety relief, better sleep, and fewer nightmares, similar to its efficacy in treating chronic pain. However, these benefits come with risks, which may include addiction, dependence, and interactions with other medications.
This is why an individualized approach by a medical professional is key to navigating these complexities and getting the best results with minimal risks.
How Cannabis Affects the Brain
Neurobiology of Cannabis and the Brain
Cannabis works through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and endogenous cannabinoids that regulates many physiological processes, including mood and memory.
The ECS plays a significant role in emotional responses and memory consolidation. The two main phytocannabinoids, THC and CBD, interact with the ECS differently: THC is psychoactive and CBD is therapeutic with no high.
Endocannabinoid System and Emotions and Memories
The ECS’s role in emotional regulation is key in PTSD. Dysregulation of the system is involved in the development of PTSD, so targeting the ECS could help alleviate symptoms. By modulating fear responses and retrieving traumatic memories, cannabis may be a way to reduce distress from PTSD.
THC and CBD: The Two Main Active Ingredients in Cannabis
THC and CBD are the two main active compounds in cannabis, each with different benefits. THC’s psychoactive effects can provide temporary relief from anxiety and pain while CBD has anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory properties. Understanding the differences between these cannabinoids is important for developing individualized treatment for PTSD patients.
Types of Cannabis and How to Consume
Different Types of Cannabis and PTSD Symptoms
Cannabis strains are typically categorized into three types: sativa, indica and hybrid. Each strain has its own characteristics that may affect PTSD symptoms. Sativa strains are often energizing and may be better for anxiety and depression symptoms. Indica strains are relaxing and may be good for insomnia and nightmares. More research is needed to understand how different strains affect PTSD symptoms.
How to Consume: Smoking, Vaping, Edibles, Topicals
Medical marijuana consumption methods matter. Smoking and vaping deliver cannabinoids quickly into the bloodstream for quick relief from acute symptoms. Edibles take longer to metabolize and may be better for chronic symptoms. Topicals can provide localized relief for associated pain. Like strains, more research is needed to understand the best way to consume.
Choosing the Right Strain and Method for PTSD Treatment
Choosing the right strain and method is vital to PTSD treatment. Patients should talk to their healthcare provider to determine which strain and method is best for their symptoms and treatment goals. An individualized approach not only gets better results but also gives the patient more control over their treatment.
Cannabis for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Research on Cannabis for Reducing PTSD Symptoms
Research is emerging that cannabis may be effective for PTSD symptom reduction, including core symptoms like anxiety, depression, and intrusive memories. Clinical trials have shown patients using cannabis report better sleep and fewer nightmares. However, the research is not yet conclusive; more studies will help us understand the role of cannabis in PTSD treatment.
Cannabis vs Traditional PTSD Treatments
Cannabis is a potential alternative for treating PTSD compared to traditional treatments like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Early research suggests cannabis may provide faster relief from symptoms like anxiety and sleep disturbances, which can be huge for people with the disorder. However, more research is needed to understand how cannabis compares to traditional treatments.
Managing PTSD Symptoms with Cannabis
How to Ask Your Doctor About Using Cannabis for PTSD
Communication with your healthcare provider is crucial if you’re considering cannabis for PTSD treatment. Patients should tell their provider about their symptoms and any previous treatments they’ve tried.
Open conversation will allow your healthcare provider to give you guidance on cannabis use and how to incorporate it into your treatment plan.
How to Get a Medical Cannabis Recommendation for PTSD
Getting a medical cannabis recommendation involves an evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider, who will assess the symptom severity of your PTSD. In many places, this requires patients to have a diagnosis of PTSD and a history of trying other treatments. Follow your state’s laws and regulations for medical cannabis to ensure a legal and good experience.
Real-World Evidence and Case Studies
Real-World Examples of Cannabis for PTSD Treatment
Observational studies and case reports are starting to show the real-world effectiveness of cannabis for PTSD. Many patients have reported a significant reduction in symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and nightmares. While these are promising anecdotes, more research is needed to prove these in a clinical setting.
What We’ve Learned from Real-World Cannabis and PTSD
Real-world experience shows that responsible cannabis use is crucial in managing PTSD. Patients have shown that when used thoughtfully, cannabis can be an effective add-on treatment. However, individual results vary, so a personalized approach to therapy is needed.
Summary
Cannabis can be an option to reduce PTSD symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. When used responsibly, it can be very therapeutic for people with PTSD. However, more research is needed to understand the effects and develop treatment protocols.
Education and awareness around cannabis use for PTSD are also crucial for patients and healthcare providers. Knowing the benefits and risks will help people make informed decisions about their treatment.
Dr. Rothman is a diplomate of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He has received multiple special awards and recognitions, including Physician of the Year, from the Pinellas County Medical Association (2014 – 2015) and the President’s Service Award from the Pinellas County Medical Society.
He attended medical school at State University of New York Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, New York, where he also completed his Obstetrics and Gynecology residency. In addition to practicing medicine, Dr. Rothman’s professional career includes being an Assistant Professor at the University of South Florida and Clinical Instructor at the University of Tampa’s College of Nursing.
Dr. Rothman received his Florida Medical Marijuana Physicians Certification in 2016 and was one of the first recommending physicians through DocMJ in the state and is loved by many of those early patients today.