CBD's Impact and Insights on PTSD Management: Essential Facts to Recall
PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, is a mental health condition that can develop after exposure to a potentially traumatic event. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a significant increase in the number of people experiencing PTSD during the COVID-19 pandemic, with over half of public health workers reporting symptoms [1].
In the quest for effective treatments, CBD, a compound found in cannabis plants, has garnered attention. A 2019 study found a reduction in anxiety-related symptoms when participants received 300 milligrams of CBD oil orally, although it did not specifically investigate CBD oil on PTSD [2].
More recently, a small study suggested that CBD capsules may help reduce symptoms of PTSD when taken alongside traditional counseling [3]. However, it's important to note that the American Psychological Association strongly recommends cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), cognitive processing therapy, cognitive therapy, and prolonged exposure as PTSD treatments [4].
The legal status of CBD products varies both at the federal level and by state. At the federal level in the U.S., hemp-derived CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC are legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. However, marijuana-derived CBD products are only legal in states that have legalized marijuana for medical or recreational use [2][4].
Regarding PTSD specifically, some states have formal medical marijuana or cannabis programs that include PTSD as a qualifying condition. For example, Texas allows medical cannabis with low THC (up to 1%) for PTSD, but this is strictly regulated and requires a licensed physician’s prescription [1][3]. However, not all states recognize PTSD as a qualifying condition for medical cannabis or CBD use, and regulations about THC content and prescription vary widely.
It's crucial for individuals to consult local laws and healthcare providers to understand the legal and medical landscape in their state. No single nationwide legal approval exists for CBD expressly for PTSD symptoms. The FDA has not approved CBD products specifically for PTSD, and labeling/information about CBD products may not always be accurate [4].
Early evidence suggests CBD may help reduce PTSD symptoms, but there has not been enough research into its safety or effectiveness. Side effects such as drowsiness, suicidal thoughts, allergic reactions, and increased risks may occur when using CBD, particularly when used alongside certain medications.
If a person has PTSD symptoms that last for a long time, interfere with their ability to work, or interfere with personal relationships, they may want to contact a medical professional to discuss treatment options. More study is necessary to determine how CBD affects traumatic memories and its safety and effectiveness when using it to manage PTSD.
In conclusion, while CBD may offer some potential for PTSD treatment, more research is necessary to fully understand its benefits, side effects, and the most effective ways to use it. It's essential for individuals to consult with healthcare providers and stay informed about local laws regarding CBD use.
References:
- Texas Compassionate Use Program: https://cbdorigin.co/texas-compassionate-use-program/
- Farm Bill of 2018: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-or-cbd
- CBD and PTSD: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6326553/
- CBD and PTSD: https://www.verywellmind.com/cbd-and-ptsd-4589409
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported an increase in the number of individuals experiencing PTSD during the COVID-19 pandemic, with over half of public health workers reporting symptoms.
- CBD, a compound found in cannabis plants, has shown promise in reducing symptoms related to mental health conditions like anxiety, although a 2019 study focused on CBD oil's effects on PTSD is not specifically mentioned.
- A small study suggested that CBD capsules may help reduce symptoms of PTSD when taken alongside traditional counseling, although the American Psychological Association recommends cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, cognitive therapy, and prolonged exposure as primary PTSD treatments.
- Some states have medical marijuana or cannabis programs that include PTSD as a qualifying condition, like Texas which allows medical cannabis with low THC for PTSD treatment, but not all states recognize it as a qualifying condition for CBD use.
