Many people (including doctors) have accepted the fact that marijuana is capable of treating a wide variety of symptoms and illnesses. Unfortunately, there are still some disorders that are overlooked, even with the mounting evidence that marijuana can help. In this article, we’re going to look at the viability of using cannabis for depression.
What is Depression?
Depression is an intricate mood disorder that can negatively impact every aspect of life. It can interfere with completion of the most basic tasks. Depression can make it difficult to sleep, eat, work, or even maintain a love or social life. Severity of depression can differ from person to person, ranging from mild to extreme.
There are many things that can cause a person to be depressed, the most common cases being a traumatic life event, death of a loved one, abuse or illness.
The World Health Organization says that approximately 350 million people suffer from depression, making it the leading cause of disability in the world.
Common Symptoms of Depression
Depending on the severity and cause of depression, each and every person will exhibit different symptoms, which may include:
- Anxiety
- Apathy
- Guilt
- Hopelessness
- Loss of Appetite
- Weight Loss
- Excessive Hunger
- Weight Gain
- Loss of Interest in Activities
- Mood Swings
- Sadness
- Excessive Crying
- Trouble Sleeping
- Excessive Drowsiness
- Irritability
- Agitation
- Social Isolation
- Lack of Concentration
- Racing thoughts
- Suicidal Thoughts
How is it Commonly Treated?
Most health care professionals will recommend eating a healthy diet, trying to get plenty of exercise, seeking cognitive therapy, and taking a prescribed medication.
Again, depending on the severity and cause for depression, medical professionals may prescribe one of several different medications including SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, Dopamine Reuptake Blockers, MAOIs, and more.
Side Effects of Commonly Prescribed Medications
While many of these medications can improve symptoms, they also come with some pretty nasty side effects, which may include:
- Nausea
- Increased Appetite and Weight Gain
- Decreased Libido
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Insomnia
- Dry Mouth
- Blurred Vision
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Agitation
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Suicidal Thoughts
Why Choose Marijuana Instead?
Depending on the strain, marijuana will enhance your mood and provide you with more energy and focus (CBD.) It will also combat loss of appetite by inducing hunger and ward off insomnia by inducing sleep! (THC)
Aside from common mild side effects like dry mouth and drowsiness, using cannabis for depression instead of prescription medication seems to be much safer. It also appears to take effect much more quickly. Better yet, many people that suffer from depression claim that it has helped their symptoms more than prescription medications ever did.
It’s important to note, that while rare, THC can cause increased paranoia in some people. The only way to know how it will affect you is to give it a shot. Chances are high that it will effectively treat your symptoms.
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, there is ALWAYS another way. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
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If you suffer from mood disorders, like anxiety or depression, call us at (844) 442-0362 or schedule your free consultation online with one of our licensed physicians, today! Don’t live in pain another second. We’re here to help.
