In this post, we will discuss The Role of THC As an Antidepressant. Major depressive disorder impacts around 17.3 million Americans. It includes persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest. One treatment for this mental illness is through antidepressants. One of these is Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is one of the main compounds derived from cannabis and hemp. Despite the negative connotations attached to THC, data shows it is very effective at treating symptoms of major depressive disorder: a disease that is becoming increasingly prevalent every year.
The Role of THC As an Antidepressant
This article explores the benefits and limitations of THC and whether or not it is right for you.
What Exactly Is THC?
Tetrahydrocannabinol, as mentioned earlier, is one of the main constituents of cannabis and hemp. It is the compound responsible for the high intoxicated feeling one gets upon consumption of edibles or other forms of the drug.
While cannabis is illegal according to United States federal law, THC based on hemp and in quantities no more than 0.3% is considered legal for consumption. Given its legal status and effectiveness in treating symptoms, it can be a viable remedy for certain mental illnesses.
The Effectiveness of THC
Research has shown THC to reduce depression and anxiety when consumed, offering better sleep and reducing chronic stress and pain. Despite this, data also indicates that reducing THC use for recreational users often leads to lower depression.
The dosage of the compound plays a crucial role in its effectiveness. Taking too much may intensify the symptoms that THC would otherwise treat. Lower doses of THC prove to be more effective in treating symptoms of major depressive disorder.
Why Edible THC Is Better
You can consume THC in multiple ways, such as by ingesting and smoking. Edibles such as delta 9 THC gummies take much longer to show their effects compared to the more conventional smoking of THC. Edibles take longer to kick in since they must go through the digestive tract before entering the bloodstream, unlike smoking which causes the compound to enter the bloodstream immediately.
Edibles may take extra time, but they also last longer, effectively giving you a longer and less intense high than smoking. Edibles are a better option for treating mental illnesses like depression since they do not provide the extreme highs that aggravate symptoms.
Should You Use THC As an Antidepressant:
Statistics show THC to be a very effective medication, but the results vary from person to person. Due to its effectiveness being a hit or miss for many people, you should get professional advice from a therapist before considering THC as an option.
It is also vital to consider that THC can interfere with other medications. Some, such as supplements of serotonin or norepinephrine, are incompatible with THC leading to adverse effects.
Due to the additional research that needs to be done on the subject, we recommend that you proceed with caution when consuming THC and stick to lower, less potent, and edible forms of the product.
Mental illness is a widespread issue that only seems to be growing year by year. Several medicinal solutions have been developed to combat the problem. Some include drugs like THC that conventionally have a bad reputation but can do a lot of good if used responsibly.
For example, you prefer edibles like gummies over smoking as you are less likely to overdose on them, and they have longer effects. You also never want to overdose on THC, as it can aggregate your symptoms rather than help you feel calm.
While many users say that THC helps reduce depression and anxiety, there is limited medical information for it to be a prescribed antidepressant.
I hope my article about ‘The Role of THC As an Antidepressant’ has helped you in some ways. If you have anything to add, please leave me a comment below. Thank you!
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