Weed and Anxiety: Cannabis Safe Use Tips for Depression

Marijuana and Anxiety

Research shows that about 25% of regular cannabis users use it to help with anxiety. While weed may offer short-term relief, its effects can differ widely from person to person.

If you’re using cannabis for anxiety, it’s important to be cautious. Learning safe usage tips can reduce risks and prevent anxiety from getting worse.

CBD and THC

CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the two main compounds in cannabis. THC is the ingredient that causes the “high,” while CBD is non-psychoactive and is often used for its calming and therapeutic benefits. Both affect the body differently, and many people prefer CBD for relaxation or pain relief without the intoxicating effects of THC.

How Does Weed Help Anxiety?

Weed, especially strains high in CBD, might help with anxiety by relaxing the body and calming the mind. It may ease anxious thoughts by interacting with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, which helps control mood. However, in some cases, weed can have the opposite effect—particularly strains high in THC, which may increase anxiety for some people.

How Does Weed Make Anxiety Worse?

Weed can sometimes worsen anxiety, especially if it has high levels of THC, the compound that causes the “high.” THC can raise your heart rate and trigger paranoia, which might increase anxiety for some people. Using too much or choosing a very strong strain can make anxious thoughts more intense and lead to an uncomfortable experience.

Cannabis Common Side Effects

Cannabis can cause different side effects depending on the person, the amount used, and the strain. Some of the most common effects include:

• Dry mouth: Cannabis can reduce saliva production, leading to a dry mouth sensation.
• Increased appetite: Cannabis may stimulate hunger, commonly referred to as “the munchies.”
• Red eyes: THC in cannabis can cause blood vessels in the eyes to expand, resulting in red or bloodshot eyes.
• Trouble with coordination: Cannabis can impair motor skills and balance, making coordination more difficult.
• Feeling drowsy: Cannabis can induce feelings of tiredness or relaxation, often leading to drowsiness.
• Paranoia: Some individuals may experience feelings of anxiety or distrust, often referred to as paranoia.
• Short-term memory problems: Cannabis can affect memory retention, especially in the short term.
• Faster heart rate: THC can increase heart rate, leading to feelings of nervousness or excitement.
• Dizziness: Some people may experience dizziness or lightheadedness when using cannabis.
• Distorted sense of time: Cannabis can alter how time is perceived, making minutes feel longer or shorter than they actually are.

Health Risks of Smoking Cannabis

Smoking cannabis can have health risks, especially with frequent or long-term use. While many people use it for recreation or medicine, it’s important to know the potential downsides, such as:

• Lung irritation: Smoking cannabis can irritate the lungs, leading to coughing and discomfort.
• Weakened immune system: Regular cannabis use may impair the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections.
• Mental health problems: Long-term use of cannabis can contribute to mental health issues, including anxiety and depression.
• Dependence: Some people may become dependent on cannabis, leading to cravings and difficulty stopping use.
• Lower motivation: Frequent cannabis use can lead to a lack of motivation, affecting daily tasks and goals.
• Memory and thinking issues: Smoking cannabis can impair cognitive functions, such as memory and the ability to think clearly.
• Strain on the heart: Cannabis use can increase heart rate, putting additional strain on the heart, especially in those with heart conditions.
• Interactions with medications: Cannabis can interact with certain medications, affecting their effectiveness or causing side effects.
• Fertility issues: Long-term cannabis use may affect fertility in both men and women, potentially impacting reproductive health.
• Gum disease: Smoking cannabis can contribute to gum irritation and increase the risk of gum disease.

Health Risks of Smoking Cannabis

Smoking cannabis can have health risks, especially with frequent or long-term use. While many people use it for recreation or medicine, it’s important to know the potential downsides, such as:

• Lung irritation: Smoking cannabis can irritate the lungs, leading to coughing and discomfort.
• Weakened immune system: Regular cannabis use may impair the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections.
• Mental health problems: Long-term use of cannabis can contribute to mental health issues, including anxiety and depression.
• Dependence: Some people may become dependent on cannabis, leading to cravings and difficulty stopping use.
• Lower motivation: Frequent cannabis use can lead to a lack of motivation, affecting daily tasks and goals.
• Memory and thinking issues: Smoking cannabis can impair cognitive functions, such as memory and the ability to think clearly.
• Strain on the heart: Cannabis use can increase heart rate, putting additional strain on the heart, especially in those with heart conditions.
• Interactions with medications: Cannabis can interact with certain medications, affecting their effectiveness or causing side effects.
• Fertility issues: Long-term cannabis use may affect fertility in both men and women, potentially impacting reproductive health.
• Gum disease: Smoking cannabis can contribute to gum irritation and increase the risk of gum disease.

Cannabis Safe Use Tips

When using cannabis to manage anxiety, it’s important to be cautious, as its effects can differ from person to person. These tips can help you reduce risks and get the most benefits:

• Start with Low-THC Strains: High THC levels can increase anxiety for some people. Begin with strains low in THC or high in CBD, which may promote relaxation without paranoia.
• Choose a Comfortable Environment: Use cannabis in a calm and familiar setting to feel more at ease and avoid unnecessary stress.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink water before and after using cannabis to prevent dehydration, which can contribute to anxiety and other side effects like dry mouth.
• Avoid High Doses: Taking too much cannabis can feel overwhelming and increase anxiety. Start small and wait to see how it affects you before using more.
• Use CBD-Rich Products: CBD may help reduce some of THC’s anxiety-inducing effects. Look for products with higher CBD content to feel calmer without an intense high.
• Try Alternative Methods: Smoking might cause effects that feel too intense. Edibles, tinctures, or other methods provide a more gradual and controlled experience.
• Time It Right: Avoid using cannabis during stressful or demanding situations. Save it for when you can relax without needing to stay focused.
• Know Your Limits: Pay attention to how much cannabis feels right for you. Using too much can lead to discomfort, increased anxiety, or paranoia.
• Monitor Your Mood: Track how cannabis affects your anxiety over time. If it’s making things worse, consider reducing your use or switching strains.
• Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you’re using cannabis for anxiety, talk to a doctor, especially if you’re on other medications. They can guide you toward safe and effective options.

Marijuana Rehab Near Me

If you or someone you know is struggling with marijuana addiction, remember that you don’t have to face it alone. Seeking professional help can be a key step in overcoming addiction and building a healthier, more fulfilling life.

At The Hope House, we provide personalized programs designed to address the root causes of addiction. Our caring, evidence-based treatments are created to help young adults overcome their addiction and take back control of their future.