Doctors are slowly recognizing the beneficial effects of marijuana. Recent findings indicate that the drug can be of good help to psychiatric patients. The plant contains many natural chemicals, like cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD is a cannabinoid that induces feelings of relaxation. Meanwhile, the cannabinoid THC has pain relief and sedative effects. You can find strains with concentrations of these at a cannabis dispensary.

The following are some of the mental health problems that can be alleviated.

Anxiety Disorder

This is an umbrella term for all disorders characterized by excessive worrying or nervousness. Panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and social anxiety disorder are covered by this term. Some of its general symptoms are intense fear and uneasiness over little things. This intensity can interfere with a person’s relationships and daily functioning. Other indicators of this condition are palpitations, tense muscles, dry mouth, and sleeping problems.

Treating affected individuals with marijuana has been met with a mixed response because the plant is known to increase levels of anxiety. However, this isn’t the case when the drug is selected correctly. CBD products can significantly reduce the severity of the symptoms. Individuals can experience feelings of calm and relaxation with the help of this ingredient. Some psychiatrists consider it an alternative to benzodiazepines, which is a common prescription.

Insomnia

This condition refers to a person’s inability to fall or stay asleep. The individual can experience frequent awakenings and have a difficult time going back to sleep. As a result, they can be lethargic, irritable, and anxious. They may also have trouble remembering things and focusing on tasks, making them unable to function properly.

Some psychiatrists recommend marijuana to help them relax. This cuts down the time it takes to fall asleep. However, it must be carefully selected. The THC level can only be 20% at most, and the CBD level must be lower. At a cannabis dispensary in Illinois, IL, you can pick from 3 strains:indica, sativa, or a hybrid of the two.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

PTSD is caused by witnessing a psychologically traumatic event such as war, death, or any situation in which a person has felt intense fear or helplessness. Certain sensations, like sounds or smells, can be associated with the traumatic experience. This triggers extreme reactions within a patient, such as panic attacks and palpitations.Mood swings, behavioral changes, and nightmares are other symptoms.

Patients have said that medical marijuana can help them cope with PTSD symptoms.Regularmedications can only numb feelings within an individual. Some of these medicines can also lead to side effects, such as blurred vision, weight gain, and constipation. Meanwhile, cannabisoffers a safer alternative to prescription medication. It allows individuals to properly process their emotions and not mask them.

Take note that using this medicine isn’t the only step to wellness. Participating in other treatments, like support groups and behavioral therapies, is still important. If your psychiatrist has prescribed medical marijuana, make sure to select the right kind, and follow the correct dosage. Experts at a cannabis dispensary in Illinois can help you with that part.