Can medical marijuana treat depression?

Depression is a serious mental health condition that can have a significant impact on an individual’s life. It is estimated that more than 300 million people worldwide suffer from depression, and yet there are still limited treatment options available. 

Common symptoms of depression include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness

• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

• Significant changes in appetite and weight

• Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping

• Fatigue or loss of energy

• Feeling worthless

• Have a tough time concentrating

• Suicidal thoughts 

Depression can be an isolating condition - reach out if you need help.

Recently, research has suggested that medical marijuana may be able to help people with depression by reducing their symptoms and improving their overall mood. Although depression is not an official qualifying medical condition listed in Governor Beshears executive order, similar mental health conditions (like PTSD) are listed. If you live in Kentucky, a Kentucky medical marijuana certification will aid you in getting medical-grade marijuana to help with depression symptoms.

In this article, we will explore the current research on how medical marijuana may be used to help people with depression and discuss the potential benefits of using it as a treatment.

What Does The Research Say?

Research has suggested that medical marijuana may be able to help people with depression. Studies have found that cannabinoids, the active ingredients in marijuana, can affect brain chemistry and influence mood. Cannabinoids have also been shown to interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, which is important for regulating mood and emotions. 

Additionally, marijuana can reduce inflammation and has been found to have antidepressant effects. However, it is important to note that more research is needed to better understand the potential benefits and risks of using medical marijuana for treating depression.

Implications On Research Of Being A Schedule 1 Drug

Unfortunately, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I drug in the United States, which means that research on its medicinal uses is limited. This makes it challenging for researchers to study the potential benefits and risks of using medical marijuana for treating depression. 

Additionally, many states have not legalized marijuana for medicinal use, which further limits access to this potentially beneficial treatment. Therefore, more research into the safety and efficacy of using medical marijuana to treat depression is needed before it can be recommended as a viable treatment option. 

Best Ways To Use Medical Marijuana To Treat Depression

If you are considering using medical marijuana to treat depression, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. They can help you determine if medical marijuana is the best treatment option for you and if so, issue you a Kentucky medical marijuana certification.  They can also recommend the best way of using it.

For example, it may be beneficial to use a lower dose of marijuana or take smaller amounts more frequently. Additionally, they can advise of any potential side effects, such as anxiety or paranoia. If you experience any of these symptoms while using medical marijuana, stop taking it and speak with your healthcare provider for further advice.

Best Strains To Treat Depression 

In addition to considering the best way to use medical marijuana to treat depression, consider what type of strain might be most beneficial. Different strains of marijuana have different levels of cannabinoids and other compounds that could affect how well it works for treating depression. 

For example, some studies have found that a strain high in cannabidiol (CBD) could be more beneficial for treating depression, while other studies have suggested that a strain high in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) could be more effective. Talk to your healthcare provider about what type of strain might be best for you and consider any potential side effects it may have. 

Kentucky Cannabis Clinic Can Help

At Kentucky Cannabis Clinic we can provide you with comprehensive advice on how medical marijuana may be used to best benefit you, including what type of strain might be most beneficial for treating depression. We also provide access to a wide range of medical marijuana products that are tested for quality and safety. 

Contact us today if you would like to learn more about how medical marijuana could help treat your depression. If you have any questions, please feel free to call us. We're here to help!