What is Depression?
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that depression makes the planet’s no. 1 source of disability, affecting 4% of us or 300 million people. That count is possibly understated given the stigma that comes with the illness. It probably comes from people lacking knowledge about the illness or lacking understanding of what it means to struggle with such.
Clinical depression or major depressive disorder is a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It affects how you think, behave, and feel in a normal day-to-day activity that will eventually lead to emotional and physical problems. Symptoms noted for depression include feelings of emptiness, irritability, sleep disturbed, lack of energy, loss of appetite, anxiety, guilt, and suicidal thoughts. It is unknown exactly the causes of depression but many factors can be involved. It can be biological differences, brain chemistry, hormones, or inherited traits. Treatment of depression is unique to each person and the severity of the illness. The cases can either be mild, moderate, and severe.
On Marijuana & Depression
As with anxiety disorders and depression, marijuana CBD has become a spring of hope. Though still in its early stages, studies show some potential anti-depressant like effects of the plant compounds – and a connection between low endocannabinoid levels and depression. Research showed that CBD can raise levels of the body’s natural “bliss” molecule anandamide. It is also connected to the higher level of serotonin in the brain which is an enzyme known for its anti-depressant effect. CBD is noted to have positive impacts on mood improvement in the hippocampus and to reduce neuron damage and inflammation in the brain. In clinical trials, informal evidence suggests that it can be effective either in place or in conjunction with traditional antidepressants.
At the University of Buffalo, scientists at the school’s (RIA) Research Institute on Addictions have started looking into medicinal marijuana as a possible treatment for depression. They have focused specifically on brain chemicals called endocannabinoids - naturally produced compounds that play a role in cognition, motor control, emotions, and behavior and a compound similar to that of cannabis. Though the experiment was conducted on animals, scientists have found that chronic stress suppresses the brain’s production of endocannabinoids which then will lead to depression-like behavior. Introducing cannabis’ cannabinoids into the system may restore normal levels and function which helps alleviate the symptoms of depression. To date, the researchers are figuring out how the certain amount of extract could give that mood-boosting effect without leading to drug dependency.
Washington State University published a journal called the Journal of Affective Disorders. The authors cited that THC and CBD (marijuana cannabinoids) have antidepressant-like effects in animal models and reported that “medical cannabis users perceived a 50% reduction in depression and a 58% reduction in anxiety and stress following cannabis use.” They also concluded that cannabis significantly reduced ratings of anxiety and stress especially for women and the low THC/high CBD is best for reducing perceived symptoms of stress. However, they also noted that the usage of cannabis for treating depression may make a problem over time in case of dependency. They wrote in the journal that “the results from the present study be further investigated under double-blind, placebo-controlled conditions.” So just like any other researchers would note, more study on different variables involved in treatment is definitely needed.
The Bottom Line
Although there are pieces of evidence pointing to marijuana and its antidepressant effects, many argue that there are also some important risks that need to be addressed when using the drug for treating the illness. It is not advisable for people with predisposed mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder as this may trigger the diseases’ expression.
If you’re interested in this potential therapy and live in an area where medicinal marijuana is legal, consider discussing this with your doctor to weigh in on the pros and cons. They can work with you to decide if this is a great option for your treatment. Today, you can find many marijuana delivery service and dispensaries around the Santa Monica area of Los Angeles, or you can simply google “weed delivery near me” and various companies will appear.
So, can medical marijuana help relieve the symptoms of depression? Equal parts of yes, maybe, maybe not, and more research is needed - based on many surveys, experiences, and clinical studies conducted. While many data are promising, they can’t be taken as anything next to proof and cure. After all, depression is tremendously a complex illness, and much more legitimate studies and scientific research are needed to prove or disprove. If you feel any of the symptoms of depression, seek help from a doctor or a mental health professional or reach out to family and friends as soon as possible.
