In recent years, there has been an increase in awareness of the potential benefits of medical cannabis for military veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Many veterans are seeking alternatives to popular medications such as benzodiazepines and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) due to the potential for addiction and other unpleasant side effects. The potential of medical cannabis as a treatment for PTSD is now being explored as an option for veterans looking for relief from their symptoms.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an incredibly common mental health condition among veterans. It is estimated that between 11-30% of veterans have PTSD, with an additional 15-50% experiencing clinically significant symptoms without meeting the full diagnostic criteria. PTSD can cause a variety of serious symptoms, including intrusive thoughts or memories, nightmares, flashbacks, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Although many medications are available to help manage these symptoms, they often come with a range of unwanted side effects and there is a risk of dependency and addiction.
“More and more studies find that medical cannabis helps show a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms (…) there are strong indications that the use of cannabis can lead to an overall improvement in mood and a reduction in anxiety.”
Medical cannabis may offer a viable alternative to traditional medications for veterans suffering from PTSD. Research into the use of cannabis for PTSD is still in its early stages, but many studies have found that it can be beneficial. More and more studies find that medical cannabis helps show a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms [1]. In general, there are strong indications that the use of cannabis can lead to an overall improvement in mood and a reduction in anxiety.
In addition to providing potential relief from the symptoms of PTSD, medical cannabis can also help promote post-traumatic growth. Post-traumatic growth is a phenomenon in which an individual experiences positive psychological change following a traumatic experience. It is believed that this positive psychological change is due to the individual’s striving to make sense of their trauma and the resulting process of self-discovery.
“Cannabis can also help by increasing motivation, allowing veterans to take more action toward improving their lives and achieving personal growth.”
Research has found that the use of medical cannabis can help to facilitate post-traumatic growth in individuals suffering from PTSD. Cannabis may help to reduce symptoms such as anxiety and depression, allowing veterans to better identify and work through their emotions. This can ultimately lead to an overall improvement in their quality of life and sense of meaning. Additionally, cannabis can also help by increasing motivation, allowing veterans to take more action toward improving their lives and achieving personal growth.
Although the research into the use of medical cannabis for PTSD is still relatively new, the evidence suggests that it can be a promising treatment option for veterans. It may be able to provide relief from symptoms while also helping to promote post-traumatic growth. Veterans should consult with their healthcare providers to determine if medical cannabis is right for them.
Efixii empowers the medical cannabis industry
At GCAC, our mission is to empower the medical cannabis industry and enhance the experiences of patients and consumers. That’s why we created Efixii, a blockchain technology dApp solution that not only ensures compliance with regulations but also provides a way for patients and consumers to learn more about the cannabis products they use.
Through Efixii, patients and consumers can gain insight into the growers, methods, and strains used in the products they purchase, allowing them to make informed decisions about the care they receive. Meanwhile, by providing growers with feedback from patients and consumers, Efixii helps cultivators create an even better product, tailor-made for patients and consumer satisfaction.
By using Efixii, we believe that we can create a more compassionate and informed cannabis industry, one that prioritizes the well-being of patients and consumers. With its secure and transparent record-keeping capabilities, easy-to-use interface, and ability to improve the consumer experience, Efixii is the perfect solution for dispensaries, cultivators, and anyone looking to enhance their cannabis business. And remember, the app is free for consumers to use while others can acquire the SaaS model. Let’s work together to create a brighter, more compassionate future for the medical cannabis industry.
[1] https://adai.uw.edu/pubs/pdf/2017mjptsd.pdf
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FAQs
Q: What is medical cannabis?
A: Medical cannabis, also known as medical marijuana, is the use of cannabis and its derivatives to treat certain medical conditions and symptoms. It is legal in many states and countries and is prescribed by doctors to help alleviate pain, nausea, and other symptoms associated with conditions such as cancer, PTSD, and chronic pain.
Q: How does medical cannabis help veterans?
A: Many veterans use medical cannabis to help with symptoms associated with PTSD and chronic pain, which are common among veterans. Studies have shown that medical cannabis can help with symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia, which are all common among veterans with PTSD. Additionally, medical cannabis can help with chronic pain, which is often a result of injuries sustained during military service.
Q: What is post-traumatic growth?
A: Post-traumatic growth refers to the positive changes that some people experience after going through a traumatic event. These changes can include increased appreciation for life, stronger relationships with others, and a greater sense of personal strength. Some veterans have reported that using medical cannabis has helped them with post-traumatic growth by reducing symptoms of PTSD and helping them to better cope with their experiences.
Q: Is medical cannabis safe for veterans?
A: Like any medication, medical cannabis can have side effects and may not be suitable for everyone. It is important for veterans to speak with their doctor before starting any new treatment, including medical cannabis. They should also let their doctor know if they are taking any other medications, as medical cannabis can interact with some drugs.
Q: Is medical cannabis legal for veterans?
A: The legality of medical cannabis varies depending on the state or country. In some states and countries, it is legal for veterans to use medical cannabis with a prescription from their doctor. However, in other states and countries, it may not be legal. It is important for veterans to check the laws in their area and speak with their doctor before using medical cannabis.
Q: How can veterans access medical cannabis?
A: In states and countries where medical cannabis is legal, veterans can access it by getting a prescription from their doctor. They can then purchase it at a licensed dispensary. It’s important for veterans to check the laws in their area and speak with their doctor before using medical cannabis.
