I feel like I don’t fit in with most people.
I’m really bad at having conversations in a group. I don’t know what to say.
I don’t feel like going to parties and social places because of the fear of being negatively evaluated by others.
If you’re a social anxiety patient, you will be familiar with all these thoughts.
But, don’t worry! You aren’t alone!
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), social anxiety disorder affects 6.8% of the US population.
There’s a wide range of medications for social anxiety, but they might also have some side-effects.
Medical researchers have found that cannabis can help people with social anxiety disorder alleviate their symptoms and feel good.
Since marijuana is illegal as per the federal regulations, you can use the herb legally with a medical cannabis license Garden Grove CA.
How Cannabis Work for Social Anxiety Patients?
Social anxiety is the fear of being judged or negatively evaluated by others—which may result in humiliation, embarrassment, depression, etc. The causes of this disorder are not exactly sure. However, researchers believe that the environment and negative experiences can result in developing it.
Usually, doctors prescribe SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) such as Prozac and Zoloft, which block reabsorption of serotonin in the brain. This helps in transmitting more serotonin signals, thus controlling the symptoms associated with anxiety. But, these medications have several side-effects such as reduced sexual desire, dry mouth, joint pain, drowsiness, etc.
Like prescription medications, CBD provides the same effects, but don’t cause any unpleasant side-effects.
Researchers in Brazil found that CBD (cannabidiol), a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis, can help in fighting social anxiety. The team affiliated with the University of Sao Paulo tested oral doses of the cannabinoid in social anxiety patients. The researchers reported that patients dosed with CBD had less social anxiety as compared to those who received a placebo.
In a 2011 study, researchers performed a simulated public speaking test in people with social anxiety disorder. Participants had less anxiety as indicated by various factors such as blood pressure and heart rate. It was found that CBD helped in reducing cognitive impairment, anxiety, and discomfort in speech performance while the placebo group experienced more anxiety symptoms.
Also, in an animal study, researchers found that cannabidiol may help the hippocampus regenerate neurons beneficial for relieving anxiety and depression. Hippocampus is a major brain area responsible for various functions such as memory and cognition. Patients with anxiety have a smaller hippocampus while the treatments focus on producing new neurons in this area.
In the United States, marijuana is listed as a Schedule 1 Drug by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Since the herb is proven beneficial for treating a wide range of conditions, its medical use is legal in 33 US states including California.
There’s a wide range of medical dispensaries providing cannabis products. To purchase medical marijuana products legally, you require a cannabis license Garden Grove, CA. An MMJ card is valid for 12 months, and if you want to get cannabis treatment thereafter, you need to apply for 420 evaluations renewal.
Top Cannabis Strains for Social Anxiety
- Strawberry Cough
- ACDC
- Granddaddy Purple
- Jack Herer
- CBD OG Kush
- Critical Cure
Conclusion
Cannabis is helpful in boosting mood and providing calming effects, thus can be used as a social anxiety treatment. Unlike prescription medications, the herb doesn’t have any unpleasant side-effects such as dry mouth, joint pain, reduced sexual interest, etc. To get maximum benefits, make sure you use strains with a higher proportion of CBD and a lower proportion of THC. Seek professional help to choose the right cannabis strain for your condition.
Consult a doctor online for medical marijuana recommendation in Garden Grove today.
Have you or your loved one ever used cannabis for social anxiety disorder? Describe the experience in the comment section below.
