Anxiety cannabis prescription treatment

The best method for using cannabis to alleviate anxiety largely depends on your personal preferences and specific symptoms. Here are a few popular methods:

• Inhalation (Vaporisation or Smoking): This method provides rapid relief, with effects kicking in quickly—often within minutes. Many individuals find that inhalation offers immediate relief.
• Edibles: Consuming cannabis in edible form can lead to longer-lasting effects. However, the onset can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, so it’s essential to start with a low dose and be patient.
• Tinctures and Oils: These products allow for precise dosing and faster absorption than edibles. Placing a few drops under your tongue can provide relief within 15 to 30 minutes.
• Topicals: While not typically used for anxiety relief, cannabis-infused topicals can be helpful for those experiencing anxiety-related physical tension, providing localised relief.

The 3-3-3 rule is a grounding technique designed to help individuals manage anxiety in the moment. Here’s how it works:

• Look Around: Identify three things you can see. This helps redirect your focus away from anxious thoughts.
• Listen: Notice three sounds you can hear. This sensory awareness encourages mindfulness and helps ground you in the present moment.
• Feel: Identify three things you can physically feel. This could be the texture of an object in your hand or the sensation of your feet on the ground.

Using the 3-3-3 rule effectively reduces feelings of anxiety by shifting your attention and helping you reconnect with your surroundings.

Coping with high anxiety can be challenging, but several effective strategies can help you manage overwhelming feelings:

• Practice Deep Breathing: Deep, slow breaths activate your body’s relaxation response. Inhale deeply for four counts, hold for four, and then exhale for four.
• Engage in Physical Activity: Regular exercise releases endorphins, improving your mood and reducing stress levels. Even a short walk can be beneficial.
• Establish a Routine: Creating a daily routine provides structure and predictability, alleviating feelings of chaos and uncertainty.
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness or meditation helps you stay present and reduces anxiety by minimising negative thought patterns.
• Limit Stimulants: Reducing or eliminating caffeine and nicotine can significantly lower anxiety levels, as these substances often exacerbate feelings of nervousness.
• Seek Support: Connecting with friends, family, or support groups can provide comfort and help you feel less isolated in your experiences.
• Consult a Professional: If your condition becomes overwhelming, consider seeking help from a mental health professional.

Yes, research suggests that CBD may help reduce anxiety. Studies have shown that CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system and other brain receptors involved in regulating mood and stress responses, which can help reduce feelings of anxiety. Many people find that CBD may help alleviate symptoms of social and generalised anxiety, as well as panic attacks. However, further research is necessary, and individual outcomes may differ.

CBD is believed to calm the nervous system by influencing serotonin receptors and other neurotransmitters involved in stress and relaxation. This may help reduce the “fight-or-flight” response, making it easier for individuals to feel calm and less reactive to stress. This is why some people use CBD to manage stress and anxiety, although its effects can vary from person to person.

CBD may interact with certain medications, including some types of anxiety medications (such as benzodiazepines and SSRIs), because it is metabolised by enzymes in the liver. Combining CBD with anxiety medication may increase the risk of side effects or affect the efficacy of your medication. Consult your doctor before adding CBD to your routine to ensure it’s safe and won’t interact with your medications.

In the UK, there are various treatments available for anxiety, ranging from prescribed medications to natural remedies. The “best” option depends on individual circumstances, such as the severity of your condition, personal preferences, and medical history. Here’s an overview of your options:

Prescription Medications

First-line treatments for anxiety disorders commonly prescribe Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline and fluoxetine. These medications work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety.

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs), like venlafaxine, are also effective and often used for anxiety.

For the short-term relief of severe anxiety, doctors may prescribe benzodiazepines like diazepam and lorazepam. However, the risks of dependency and side effects typically discourage long-term use.

Therapy and psychological treatments

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective and widely recommended therapies for anxiety in the UK. It helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviours contributing to anxiety.

Exposure therapy and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) are also popular psychological treatments that help reduce symptoms.

Marijuana (Cannabis)

In the UK, patients with severe, treatment-resistant anxiety disorders or other qualifying medical conditions like PTSD can only use medical cannabis with a prescription.

People often use CBD (cannabidiol), a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis, for its potential calming effects. It is legal in the UK when it contains less than 0.2% THC, and many individuals use CBD products, such as oils and capsules, for anxiety relief. Research into its effectiveness is still on-going, but some studies suggest that CBD may help reduce anxiety in certain situations.

In the UK, doctors rarely prescribe THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive component of cannabis, for anxiety due to its potential to either cause or exacerbate anxiety in certain individuals. In fact, for some people, THC can trigger feelings of paranoia and increased anxiety, which makes it unsuitable.

Lifestyle Changes and Natural Remedies

Regular exercise (e.g., yoga, walking, running) can significantly reduce symptoms by promoting the release of endorphins and improving overall mood.

Techniques like meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing exercises are effective in helping individuals relax and manage anxiety.

People occasionally use herbal remedies like chamomile tea, valerian root, and lavender oil to reduce anxiety, though their effectiveness varies from person to person.

Over-the-Counter Options

Sometimes, people use over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines like Promethazine for their sedative effects to manage short-term anxiety or anxiety-related sleep disturbances. However, it is important to seek a doctor’s advice before using these over an extended period.

The appropriate dosage of cannabis for anxiety varies depending on the individual’s needs and tolerance. A healthcare professional can help determine the right amount, often starting with a low dose and gradually increasing. If prescribed, a cannabis prescription will provide guidance on the appropriate dosage for anxiety management.

People often recommend strains with higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC for anxiety, as CBD can help reduce stress and promote calmness without the psychoactive effects. A cannabis prescription tailored to the individual’s needs can help select the most suitable strain and dosage.

Yes, stress can significantly impact your physical and mental health. When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which are helpful in short-term situations. However, prolonged stress can lead to issues such as headaches, fatigue, digestive problems, weakened immunity, and even conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease. Stress also affects mental health, potentially causing depression and difficulty sleeping. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, or speaking with a professional can help improve overall well-being.