Medical Marijuana and PTSD – Does it help control symptoms?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a Qualifying Condition for your Florida Medical Marijuana Card.  Schedule an appointment at our Miami office, conveniently located in historic Calle Ocho.

Since Florida legalized medical marijuana in 2016, we have noticed a growing number of Miami residents have discovered ways that medical cannabis can contribute to their everyday wellbeing. Researchers are continuing to learn about the potential of the cannabis plant for helping patients suffering from a myriad of conditions, ranging from chronic pain and nausea to glaucoma and digestive disorders. One of the most promising potential uses of marijuana is in the treatment of PTSD, otherwise known as post-traumatic stress disorder.

PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that can affect individuals who have suffered from a traumatic event, with symptoms that include frightening flashbacks, nightmares, and debilitating anxiety. Particularly common in veterans, the disorder is one that often permeates every aspect of an individual’s life. However, recent scientific studies are making connections between medical marijuana and PTSD, offering hope to all those who struggle with the devasting disorder.

Scientific Research about Cannabis for PTSD

Even though there is still plenty to learn about how marijuana can help PTSD, there’s no shortage of studies supporting its potential. A 2015 study authored by Stephanie Yarnell MD, Ph.D. evaluated a collection of control and observational studies for evidence of cannabis as a method to treat PTSD, and concluded that many of them “suggests a decrease in PTSD symptoms with marijuana use.” In late 2019, a Canadian-based research study found “evidence that cannabis use may contribute to reducing the association between post-traumatic stress disorder and severe depressive and suicidal states,” expressing the value of ongoing research on the topic.

In addition to these and other studies, cannabis for PTSD has also earned support from many in the medical community. A recent article by Dr. Peter Grinspoon for Harvard Health Publishing stated, “A highly promising area of research is its use for PTSD in veterans who are returning from combat zones. Many veterans and their therapists report drastic improvement and clamor for more studies, and for a loosening of governmental restrictions on its study.”

The Veterans Cannabis Project is one such veteran-led group dedicated to educating policymakers about the potential benefits of marijuana, as well as increasing veterans’ access to cannabis. According to their website, more than 80% of veterans support medical cannabis programs.

Which Marijuana Strain is Better: Indica or Sativa for PTSD?

Determining which marijuana strain is best for PTSD is a highly personal decision, one that is often best made with the assistance of our licensed medical marijuana doctor. There are a variety of factors that may impact the best cannabis for a specific condition, and having a doctor evaluate your case can be key in establishing a plan tailored for your needs.

Many of our Miami patients find that a balanced hybrid of indica and sativa is an excellent fit for resolving their PTSD symptoms, while others opt for high-THC strains for nighttime and high-CBD strains for daytime. If you’re unsure about how to choose the right marijuana strain to relieve your individual symptoms, a medical marijuana doctor can help.

Learn More About MMJ for PTSD at LifeCannMD

LifeCannMD is a trusted provider of medical marijuana consultations in Miami, Florida, connecting qualifying patients with the required Florida MMJ card, a customized treatment plan from a licensed physician, and individualized follow-ups. Whether you’re seeking help for PTSD or another one of the many qualifying conditions, LifeCannMD can take the stress out of the process of obtaining your Florida medical marijuana card. 

Get more information about how a growing number of Florida MMJ patients are consuming weed for PTSD by scheduling your free consultation at LifeCannMD today.