Dr. Sabiha Alam Choudhury is currently working as the Head of Department of Psychology and Counselling at School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Assam Don Bosco University, Tapesia, India.

Her research areas are Positive Psychology, Counselling & Psychotherapy, and Marriage and Family Counselling.

Email: sabiha.choudhury[at]dbuniversity.ac.in , sabihachoudhury9[at]gmail.com

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Can CBD Help Your Mental Health?

CBD for depression

These days, there is huge hype around cannabidiol (also known as CBD), and for good reason.  There are numerous health benefits that are linked to this non-psychoactive all-natural substance.

Many people report that CBD has helped them to manage mental and emotional distress. But are those reports true? Can CBD help your mental health? In this informative article, we will examine whether or not taking CBD for mental health is a good idea.

All You Need to Know about CBD for Mental Health

Mental health is a broad term that refers to your overall mental and emotional well-being. It is influenced by factors such as your outlook on life and your ability to manage issues such as stress, boredom, low moods, and interpersonal conflicts. If you can properly manage your emotions (during negative and positive situations), it may suggest that you are in a good state of mental health. People with good mental health are less prone to certain mood-related issues such as depression and anxiety.

CBD is been best known for its ability to reduce many of the symptoms associated with poor mental health. Common symptoms include a lack of motivation, physical pain, low energy, and difficulty sleeping. People with mental health concerns who take CBD report that they feel more refreshed and energetic.

But what exactly is CBD?

CBD is a type of cannabinoid. Cannabinoids are naturally occurring chemicals that are primarily extracted from cannabis sativa plants like marijuana and hemp. Some people choose not to use CBD because they are afraid they may become intoxicated or addicted to CBD. However, the substance that causes addiction and intoxication in marijuana is a different cannabinoid called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 

Marijuana and THC are not recommended as treatment for mental health issues because they are addictive and do not promote mental clarity. CBD does not cause addiction nor does it cause you to become confused, lightheaded, intoxicated, or high.

How Does CBD Relief Depression and Anxiety?

In addition to psychotherapy, psychiatrists may prescribe medication for people with mental health issues. However, many of these drugs have negative side effects such as mood swings, nausea and insomnia. These negative reactions have led some people to explore more natural solutions like CBD for mental health concerns.

Several scientific studies have shown that CBD may help to control the symptoms of anxiety and depression without causing side effects. 

For example, a 2014 review of animal studies established that CBD seems to react positively with serotonin receptors in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is associated with happiness and positive feelings. When your serotonin levels are kept in a balanced state, it is less likely that you will develop clinical depression. These animals studies indicate that CBD is very effective as an anti-depressant/anti-anxiety substance. Many researchers also agree that CBD offers therapeutic benefits in depression and anxiety management for humans. 

CBD may even be helpful in managing everyday situations that may cause social anxiety. In one public speaking test, it was found that people who each took a dose of 300 mg of CBD, recorded lower levels of anxiety. This was a big plus for using CBD as an anti-anxiety compound. In 2017, these results were further confirmed in a different study in which CBD showed anti-panic actions. This suggested the possible use of CBD for panic disorder.

Conclusion

Public interest in CBD for mental health has been growing over the last few years. Celebrity endorsements of CBD for depression and other mental health conditions are gaining traction.

Even though CBD is showing great promise as a mental health treatment, it should be noted that CBD is not a cure-all treatment and you should speak with your doctor before starting a CBD regimen. The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that CBD has no major side effects and poses no significant risk to public health. A wholesale hemp flower may be a good choice if you want to buy CBD strains for your mental health needs.

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Credit- What is Psychology (WIP). Published by- Dr. Sabiha : www.drsabiha.blogspot.com