Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder – or PTSD – is one condition where symptoms can be reduced by using medical marijuana. PTSD is a complex diagnosis and the path to recovery is never easy or straightforward. This life-altering condition can cause severe nightmares, panic attacks, detachment, heightened emotions, self-destructive behaviors, and even suicide.
PTSD is a qualifying condition to obtain one’s medical marijuana card, as more positive effects of the herb are being discovered.
When someone experiences a traumatic situation, endocannabinoids that are sent to the receptors change, and the person feels both a physical and mental stress response. These receptors, CB1 and CB2, when unable to make inputs naturally, can be supplemented by cannabis. The endocannabinoid system, which is impaired in those suffering from PTSD, needs to be activated in order to reduce the fear response associated with a particular memory.
Cannabis is proven to reduce anxiety and helps reduce the intensity of the traumatic memory, and can eventually distinguish the memory. Cannabis also reduces activity in the amygdala, which calms the brain’s response to fear.
At LifeCannMD, we can help anyone suffering from PTSD. Dr. Fernando Sende, our Double Board-certified physician, is licensed to recommend for a Medical Marijuana Card and will evaluate the patients to see if they qualify.
