Depression, Anxiety, and Medical Cannabis
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Delivery Methods and Dosing: Making the most of your medicine Depression, Anxiety, and Medical Cannabis Presenters: Becky DeKeuster, M.Ed, Director of Education Carey Clark, PhD, RN, AHN-BC, RYT Producer: Ben Gelassen, Marketing Associate
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Transcript of Depression, Anxiety, and Medical Cannabis
Delivery Methods and Dosing:Making the most of your medicine
Depression,Anxiety, and
Medical Cannabis
Presenters: Becky DeKeuster, M.Ed, Director of EducationCarey Clark, PhD, RN, AHN-BC, RYT
Producer: Ben Gelassen, Marketing Associate
Depression & Anxiety: It’s a Cycle
Stress
Anxiety
Depression
PainChanges in mobility
Medical appointments
Finances/work performance
Self-care
Caring for family
Sleep disruptions
Sexual changes
Fear
Anger & frustrationWorry/panic attacks/insomnia
Obsessive thoughts/feeling “stuck”
Hopelessness
Apathy
Procrastination
Fatigue
Changes in appetite
Difficulty sleeping
Depression: A Silent Companion
Silent = we don’t talk about it
Silent = not on the list of qualifying conditions
Silent = side effect of many ailments
on the qualifying conditions list
Neurochemistry in Action
Blood pressure up Obsessive thoughts ApathyFatigue
Lots of “cross-talk” and reinforcement
Cannabis Can Help: Scientific Support
Chronic stress reduces production of endocannabinoids in animal models, leading to depression-like behavior.
“Using compounds derived from cannabis—marijuana—to restore normal endocannabinoid function could potentially help stabilize moods and ease depression.”
Dr. Samir Haj-Dahmane, lead researcher, University of Buffalo’s Research Institute on Addictions (Feb. 4, 2015)
Source: http://www.buffalo.edu/news/releases/2015/02/004.html
Delivery Methods and Dosing:Making the most of your medicine
But…Doesn’t cannabis make depression and anxiety worse, not better?
The Role of THC
THC blocks GABA protein, increasing dopamine levels
Source: http://thebrain.mcgill.ca/flash/i/i_03/i_03_m/i_03_m_par/i_03_m_par_cannabis.html
Result: increased enjoyment, motivation, memory and attentiveness
The Role of THC
THC also mimics the effect of our bodies’ natural
endocannabinoid, anandamide
“Ananda” is Sanskrit for “bliss”
Both molecules were discovered by Dr. Raphael MechoulamPhoto sources: Erowid.org (top); www.jpost.com (bottom)
Finding the Right Strain
MOB Blue Dream Chocolope
Anecdotal evidence only. Each user will have a unique reaction.
Potential Side Effects
Cannabis
Benzodiazepenes
SSRIs
Image source: www.inspiremalibu.com
Image source: www.yourspine.com
Delivery Methods and Dosing:Making the most of your medicine
Many people self-medicate for depression and anxiety with alcohol. Why is cannabis a better choice?
Cannabis v. Alcohol
Not lethal
Protects cells & neurons
Antidepressant
Anti-nausea, anti-emetic
Potentially lethal
Damages cells & neurons
Depressant
May cause nausea/vomiting
No proven physical addiction
Physically addictive
Start Low. Go Slow.
Use less than recommended starting dose (5-10 mg)
Stay focused on effects
Do 15-minute check ins when trying a new strain/delivery method
Keep a cannabis journal
Care for Your Whole SelfMeditate • Exercise • Affirm your Self • Drink a glass of water • Call a friend
• Observe a natural object closely • Color • Journal for 5 minutes • Get a haircut •
Exercise • Affirm your Self • Drink water • Call a friend • Complete one small task
• Take a deep breath • Take a nap • Get offline • Stretch
Recognize When You Need Help
Using cannabis to avoid social situations
Escapism: Using cannabis asa way to avoid self-reflection
Overindulging/overdosing regularly
Delivery Methods and Dosing:Making the most of your medicine
Thank you for your time and attention!
What are your remaining questions & concerns?
[email protected]/mainewellnessInstagram: @mainewellness
