What is PTSD?
For years, PTSD patients have been claiming that cannabis has been a helpful tool in the treatment of their symptoms. However, previous research in this space was limited and inconclusive.
Here, we will be discussing recent study findings that indicate that medicinal cannabis may be a healthy and effective treatment for PTSD symptoms for some patients.
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What are the symptoms of PTSD?
There are four categories of PTSD symptoms:
- Intrusion: Someone with PTSD may have intrusive thoughts such as distressing dreams and traumatic flashbacks.
- Avoidance: Avoiding people, objects, discussions and places that trigger the person with PTSD to think of the traumatic event.
- Alterations in cognition and mood: PTSD can cause a person to not be able to recall important aspects of the traumatic event, have a distorted view of reality, and struggle to feel positive emotions.
- Alterations in arousal and activity: Angry outbursts or feeling irritable are another common symptom of those with PTSD, alongside sleep troubles and self-destructive behaviours (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
Although many people may experience these symptoms immediately following a traumatic event, when these symptoms persist for more than a month a person may now be experiencing PTSD.
Can medicinal cannabis help with my PTSD symptoms?
Research suggests that people who suffer with PTSD have found improved quality of life due to medicinal cannabis helping reduce the intensity of the brain’s response to a trigger. People with PTSD have lower levels of anandamide, a neurotransmitter that binds to CB1 receptors.
When anandamide levels are low, the brain produces more CB1 receptors, and people with PTSD have more of these receptors in the parts of their brain that respond to stress and anxiety. CBD could help regulate these receptors and reduce anxiety, and when THC binds to these receptors, it could also help by reducing nightmares and improving sleep for those with PTSD.
A systematic review and meta-analysis by Orsolini et al. (2019) found that CBD, THC, and whole-plant cannabis preparations may have a potential therapeutic role in treating PTSD symptoms, such as reducing anxiety, modulating memory-related processes, and improving sleep.
However, the authors note that while the results are promising, the evidence is currently very limited and more high-quality studies are needed.
Another review by Walsh et al. (2017) suggests that cannabis may have potential as a treatment for PTSD, based on preliminary evidence. The authors highlight the need for further research into both the benefits and harms of medical cannabis for PTSD relative to other therapeutic options.
Individuals with PTSD may self-medicate with cannabis to cope with their symptoms. A study by Bohnert et al. (2014) found that veterans with PTSD were more likely to use cannabis and to have a cannabis use disorder compared to those without PTSD. However, it’s important to note that self-medication with cannabis can also lead to problematic use and cannabis use disorder.
What does the research suggest?
One study found that cannabis can help reduce the response of the amygdala, which is the part of the brain associated with our response to threats. In the study, one group was given a low dose THC, and another no dose, then they were exposed to triggers and the brain response was monitored. Those who had taken the low dose of THC had a reduced fear response compared to those without the dose.
Another study demonstrated that medicinal cannabis can help those with PTSD move forward from their traumatic experiences by overwriting them, a process called extinction learning. For example, if someone has a car accident, they may have a stress response to being in a car again; however, over time as they have new memories of being in a car and not being in an accident, these new memories overwrite the trauma response of the old memory.
This is extinction learning — something which people who suffer from PTSD are unable to do.
Researchers have looked through all the relevant cannabis research from 1974-2020 and found evidence that taking medicinal cannabis may help those with PTSD improve their ability to complete extinction learning, and reduce their anxiety response — and without any significant negative effects.
In a clinical trial by Jetly et al. (2015), the synthetic cannabinoid nabilone was found to be effective in reducing nightmares, one of the most common symptoms of PTSD, in Canadian military personnel. However, the sample size was small (10 participants), and larger, randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings.
Contact us to find out moreIs it a healthy coping mechanism for my PTSD symptoms?
The symptoms of PTSD can be debilitating and when left untreated can alter the course of a person’s life. Medicinal cannabis could be a healthy way to help those who experience PTSD by alleviating these symptoms both immediately and in the long run.
This is especially true when used in conjunction with other healthy forms of treatment like therapy and taking care of your basic needs with a healthy diet, exercise, sleep schedule, and routine.
However, it is essential to note that while cannabis may provide some relief for PTSD symptoms, it should not be considered a stand-alone treatment.
Comprehensive treatment for PTSD typically involves psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and in some cases, medication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cannabis be effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, such as anxiety, flashbacks, and sleep disturbances?
Yes, research suggests that cannabis may be effective in treating various PTSD symptoms. Studies have shown that cannabis can help reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, and potentially facilitate the extinction of traumatic memories. However, more high-quality clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings.
What are the best cannabis strains and delivery methods for managing PTSD symptoms?
Both THC and CBD have been shown to have potential benefits. Common delivery methods include inhalation, oral consumption (e.g., capsules, oils), and sublingual administration.
What are the best terpenes for PTSD management?
Cannabis strains with terpenes such as limonene, myrcene and caryophyllene have been found to be the most effective in patients with PTSD related symptoms.
How does cannabis work to reduce fear and promote relaxation in individuals with PTSD?
Cannabis may help reduce fear responses and promote relaxation in individuals with PTSD by interacting with the endocannabinoid system. CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic effects and may help regulate the amygdala, a brain region involved in fear processing. THC may also help reduce nightmares and improve sleep quality.
Are there any specific dosing guidelines for using cannabis to treat PTSD?
The research does not provide specific dosing guidelines for PTSD. Dosing should be individualized based on factors such as symptom severity, individual tolerance, and potential side effects. It is generally recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed and tolerated, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Can cannabis be used in combination with other treatments for PTSD, such as therapy and medication?
While cannabis may be a helpful adjunct treatment for PTSD, it should not be considered a standalone therapy. Comprehensive PTSD treatment typically involves psychotherapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and, in some cases, medication. It is essential for individuals with PTSD to consult with a mental health professional to develop an appropriate treatment plan that may incorporate cannabis alongside other evidence-based therapies.