Does Marijuana Help with Depression?
- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
Depression, a common but debilitating mood disorder, is a global health concern that affects millions of people. It’s a battle that is often fought in silence and solitude. But what if there was an alternative approach to managing depression?
The intersection of cannabis use and mental health is a complex one filled with different perspectives and research findings. In this blog, we’ll unpack the relationship between weed and depression, exploring the potential therapeutic effects of cannabis, relevant research, and the pros and cons of using the drug for depression.
What Is Depression and What Causes It?
Depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, and difficulty performing daily tasks. It affects an individual’s thoughts, feelings, and behavior, often leading to a variety of physical and emotional issues. It can make it challenging for a person to function in their daily life, significantly affecting their work and relationships.
Depression’s exact cause is unknown, but most experts agree it’s a multifactorial condition, which means it is caused by more than one factor. Various factors can contribute to its onset, including hormones, inherited traits, early childhood trauma, and certain diseases. It’s important to note that these causative elements often interact with people’s life experiences and increase their likelihood of developing depression.
Does Cannabis Help with Depression?
Marijuana’s potential to treat depression remains a contentious subject, and studies’ results have varied.
Some studies suggest that components of cannabis such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) have antidepressant-like effects that can alleviate symptoms of depression. However, other research indicates that regular cannabis use can exacerbate depressive symptoms or even contribute to the onset of depression in some individuals.
In summary, while there are promising indications of cannabis’s therapeutic effects, more comprehensive research is required to corroborate that theory. Individuals considering cannabis for depression should consult a healthcare professional first.
Can Cannabis Make Depression Worse?
Just as cannabis has the potential to help with depression, it can also make it worse. Some research suggests that chronic cannabis use can lead to an increase in depressive symptoms. Some studies have also found a correlation between frequent cannabis use and increased rates of depression, particularly in young people.
THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, can have adverse effects like impaired memory, distorted perception, and in some cases, increased anxiety and depression, particularly in individuals predisposed to these conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to approach the use of cannabis for depression with caution.
Can Marijuana Cause Depression?
The possibility of marijuana causing depression is a subject of ongoing research. Some studies suggest a potential link between heavy, extended marijuana use and the development of depressive symptoms or disorders. The proposed mechanisms behind this include the drug’s impact on the brain’s reward system, its effect on motivation, and the stigma associated with chronic use.
However, these studies often face challenges when it comes to ascertaining causality due to factors such as pre-existing mental health conditions and the concurrent use of other substances. The relationship between marijuana use and depression might also be bidirectional, meaning that individuals with depression might be more likely to use marijuana.
Therefore, while a connection might exist, it is not certain that marijuana use causes depression.
What Are the Risks of Using Cannabis for Depression?
While cannabis may provide relief for some people with depression, it’s important to note the potential risks associated with its use. First, cannabis can interact with other medications, affecting their efficacy or causing adverse side effects. Chronic use of cannabis can also lead to dependency, with withdrawal symptoms like irritability, insomnia, and loss of appetite when usage is stopped.
THC can exacerbate anxiety and depression in some individuals. Additionally, heavy use of cannabis can lead to cannabis use disorder, which is characterized by problems with cognitive functioning and social relationships. Lastly, the use of cannabis in young people can have long-term effects on cognitive development.
What Type of Marijuana Helps with Depression?
When discussing specific strains that help with depression, some popular choices include:
- Jack Herer: A sativa-dominant strain named after a renowned cannabis activist, this strain is known for its ability to provide a clear-headed buzz coupled with an uplifting and euphoric high that can potentially relieve depressive symptoms.
- Harlequin: A CBD-rich, sativa-dominant strain known for its low THC content and high CBD content, Harlequin is often chosen for its ability to relieve stress and promote focus without a strong psychoactive high.
- Pineapple Express: A popular Hybrid strain appreciated for its balanced effects, Pineapple Express combines the relaxation of indica strains with the uplifting and mood-enhancing effects of sativa strains.
While these strains have been reported to alleviate certain symptoms of depression, it’s crucial to remember that everyone’s body responds differently to cannabis.
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How we reviewed this article:
- Cleveland Clinic (2024). Depression
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9290-depression - Alicia Sparks Akers (2022). Depression and marijuana (cannabis): What to know
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/depression-and-marijuana - Emily Delzell (2023). Depression and Marijuana: What to Know
https://www.webmd.com/depression/depression-marijuana - Daniel K. Hall-Flavin (2024). Marijuana and depression: What’s the link?
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/marijuana-and-depression/faq-20058060 - Joanna Jacobus and Susan F. Tapert (2015). Effects of Cannabis on the Adolescent Brain
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3930618/ - Hemp Street (2020). The Best Cannabis Strains for Depression
https://hempstreet.in/blog/cannabis-strains-for-depression/
Current Version
January 26, 2024
Updated By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
First Published
March 18, 2022
Written By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
Other Posts About Medical Marijuana Conditions
Jake Peter received his journalism degree from Emerson College and has been writing content for the Sanctuary Wellness Institute since 2021. He is passionate about all things cannabis.
