For years, our Florida medical marijuana doctors have known that cannabis has a role to play in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. That is in part because it may provide relief from symptoms such as trouble sleeping and depression while also possibly helping to stabilize a person’s mood.
Now, there is more research to show just how beneficial medical marijuana can be for those suffering from PTSD. Two relatively new studies suggest that cannabis has the potential to minimize anxiety in threatening situations and help extinguish traumatic memories. If you are living with PTSD, you may find that both effects have a positive impact on your day-to-day functioning.
Cannabis and Trauma-Related Anxiety
One of the new studies, from researchers at Wayne State University, illustrates how cannabis can reduce activity in the amygdala. The amygdala is a part of the brain that is responsible for the so-called fight or flight response. It is thought to detect and process fearful and threatening stimuli and active fear-related behaviors.
The study found that THC lowered threat-related amygdala reactivity in adults with PTSD. In other words, people with THC in their system were able to experience less fear and anxiety in threatening situations. This effect may be advantageous if you are always on guard for danger or are easily frightened.
THC and Aversive Memory Extinction
PTSD is triggered by a terrifying event and characterized by ongoing and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. You may find yourself dealing with intrusive memories and going out of your way to avoid anything that reminds you of what you went through.
A second new study, from the Federal University of Parana in Brazil, suggests that cannabinoids in marijuana could help you replace your traumatic memories with new memories. That process is called extinction learning. The study concluded that low doses of THC could help suppress anxiety and negative memories.
Talk to Our Physicians About Getting an MMJ Card in Florida
Research on the relationship between medical marijuana and post-traumatic stress disorder is ongoing, so there is no guarantee that you will experience the same benefits found in the studies mentioned above. However, they may encourage you to consider using cannabis to manage the unpleasant symptoms you are experiencing.
Schedule an evaluation with one of our physicians at 727-209-5470 to learn more. Access Marijuana RX is located in St. Petersburg and proudly serves patients from Tampa and the surrounding areas of Florida.