3 Ways Medical Marijuana Can Help You Manage PTSD Symptoms

3 Ways Medical Marijuana Can Help You Manage PTSD Symptoms

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a mental health condition that sometimes occurs after experiencing or witnessing a frightening or traumatic event, affects about 8 million Americans. The condition is common in combat veterans and first responders, but it can affect people from all walks of life.

Traditionally, most patients have used prescription medication, counseling, and lifestyle changes to help manage their symptoms, but that’s starting to change. That’s because research shows medical marijuana may complement these efforts. Though it isn’t a cure, medical marijuana may ease certain PTSD symptoms. 

At MediCalm, board-certified physician Kimberlee Park, DO, often treats people with PTSD in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Here, she highlights three common PTSD symptoms that may benefit from medical marijuana.

1. Reducing anxiety and hyperarousal

Many people with PTSD experience intense anxiety or hyperarousal, which leaves them tense and feeling on edge. This can make it challenging to relax or focus. 

Certain compounds in the marijuana plant, like cannabidiol (CBD), are known to reduce anxiety. Using CBD-heavy strains of medical marijuana or a CBD tincture may help ease anxiety and improve emotional regulation. 

Strain recommendations and professional guidance from a qualified provider like Dr. Park can help you choose the right product and dosage. 

2. Improving sleep and reducing nightmares

Between 70% and 90% of people with PTSD suffer from sleep issues, such as insomnia and recurrent nightmares. These and other sleep disturbances can make it difficult to sleep through the night, impacting work, relationships, and other daily activities.

Medical marijuana can be beneficial here, too. Indica-heavy strains, in particular, are known to help with falling and staying asleep. One study even found that people with PTSD who used medical marijuana reported fewer nightmares and better rest.

3. Supporting emotional processing and mood regulation

PTSD makes it difficult to manage strong emotions, which is why many people with the condition push their feelings away. This coping mechanism may work for a while, but when difficult emotions surface, it can lead to explosive outbursts or a constant feeling of being on high alert. 

Medical marijuana may help address these emotional ups and downs by supporting mood regulation. It can also reduce irritability, making it easier to have difficult conversations or discuss feelings. This can be especially beneficial for patients enrolled in therapy, as it allows them to speak more openly.

How to determine if medical marijuana is right for you

If you’re struggling with PTSD symptoms, the best way to find out if medical marijuana is a good option for you is to make an appointment with a qualified provider. A medical marijuana certification is required to use medical marijuana in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

After reviewing your health history and discussing your symptoms, Dr. Park can determine if you’re a good candidate. If you are, she can prescribe a medical marijuana card and even make product recommendations.

To schedule medical marijuana certification, contact MediCalm today. All appointments are by phone, and you can use our online scheduler or call our appointment line at 484-440-9494 to set up a time that works for you.