If you’ve found that you’ve been suffering from worsened anxiety recently, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that 1 in 5 U.S. residents will suffer from an anxiety disorder at one point in their life, and uncertain times like these only exacerbate mental conditions. It can be difficult to find relief from a condition that’s so controlled by external factors, but marijuana has been a reliable reprieve for many. In fact, one recent report showed that anxiety was the second most common reason that medical cannabis patients reported using marijuana products. If current events or recent life changes have caused you to feel anxiety, stop by your local marijuana dispensary to choose a product that can help you feel calm and in control once again.
Choose the Right Strain
One major factor that will contribute to the effectiveness of cannabis use is selecting the right strain for you and your needs. Everyone reacts to marijuana differently, so not only are specific strains tailored for specific effects, but those effects will also vary from person to person. Finding a strain that not only promises anxiety relief, but delivers it for you as effectively as possible is the first major step toward long-term relief. Pay attention to THC:CBD ratios and terpene profiles when looking for flower specifically for anxiety relief and de-stressing. Myrcene, caryophyllene, and limonene are just a few prominent terpenes that have shown great success in reducing anxiety in users.
Pick a Product You’re Comfortable With
There are many different ways that you can ingest marijuana, from flower to edibles to topicals and oils. When picking the best option for you, you should consider factors such as how fast-acting or long-lasting these methods are. Flower and oil vapes are both fast-acting, but the effects won’t last as long as other methods. Additionally, some new users may be uncomfortable with smoking or inhaling a substance. If you would prefer something more discreet and user-friendly, try tinctures. These are also fast-acting, but they’re easy for beginners to use and offer more precise dosing. Edibles are another effective way to consume marijuana, and it’s a method preferred by many medical and recreational users. Edibles are more potent and have a longer-lasting effect since they are absorbed through the digestive tract rather than through the lungs. However, the effects won’t be as immediate as other methods. Ultimately, you should choose whichever method makes you most comfortable and is the easiest for you to ingest.
Start with Small Doses
If you’re not used to using marijuana products, start with small doses and gradually increase them over time. This is especially true if your chosen products are THC-dominant. Marijuana can increase anxiety in some people if you choose a strain that isn’t well-suited to you, so it’s a good idea to start with the minimum dose and see how your body reacts before increasing to something stronger. Once you notice your anxiety starting to lift, stick with that dosage as long as it is effective.
Indulge in a Safe Environment
As mentioned, cannabis can sometimes increase feelings of anxiety and paranoia in users. In order to decrease the chances of this, make sure that you are in a safe and comfortable environment when trying it for the first time. If you’re stressed, nervous, or feel unsafe, you may experience adverse effects. Never try it for the first time in a situation where you feel uncomfortable or need to conceal your cannabis use. Starting in as positive a headspace as possible will maximize your chances of getting the effects you want.
Here at Cornerstone Wellness cannabis dispensary, we’re dedicated to providing you with the best products for your anxiety relief and your unique endocannabinoid system. We provide personalized, one-on-one consultations to guarantee you the best possible results from our products. To find out more about our cannabis products for stress and anxiety, fill out our online consultation form or give us a call at (323) 259-8933.