Depression is the disease of modern times–with the National Institute of Mental Health estimating that 19.4 million adults had at least one episode of severe depression in 2019 alone.
Many of us think of depression as a single disorder in itself. However, it is a catch-all term referring to various conditions that affect the mood and share the same defining characteristics.
Each seriously affects the quality of one’s life.
Yet, depression can also have physical ramifications aside from the mental aspect. For example, of the adults with symptoms of depression, 64 percent are at an increased risk of developing coronary artery disease.
All of that is to say that depression is a severe epidemic in the world that could be eased with the correct use of medical marijuana. In the following paragraphs, we will explain how that is the case.
Your endocannabinoid system & medical marijuana
The endocannabinoid system plays a massively important role in balancing the systems within your body. It regulates a healthy sleep function, memory, appetite, and mood.
While more studies must be conducted, we know one thing for sure. A healthy endocannabinoid system is fundamental to good mental health. And we also understand that the cannabinoids in cannabis can strongly influence that system.
The “munchies” are an excellent example of that influence at work.
So, with the correct usage, medical marijuana has a solid chance to help many people by balancing their endocannabinoid system.
Is medical marijuana accepted as a treatment for depression?
At the current date, yes. But there aren’t many states specifically assigning medical marijuana to treat depression. However, the antidepressant effect that medical marijuana causes is undeniable, and it is increasingly likely to be accepted as a treatment in more places.
A study conducted in 2019 gave us a glimpse of the increasing acceptance. It showed that 34 percent of participants reported using cannabis to treat depression. And it’s thought that at the current date, that number has only grown.
Still, beyond that, medical marijuana is acknowledged to be an effective treatment for those suffering from other conditions such as chronic pain who also suffer from depression.
In conclusion
Medical marijuana has shown promising results for treating depression on many occasions. Whether that depression results from another condition, like chronic pain or not, the results remain positive.
If you’re interested in acquiring your medical marijuana card and experiencing its benefits yourself, please call us at Medwell Health and Wellness to schedule an appointment.
Aaron Bloom serves as the CEO, overseeing the mission and growth of DocMJ and Medwell Health and Wellness Centers. Aaron’s passion for improving patients’ lives comes from his background in health care. For more than 20 years, Aaron owned, operated, and represented traditional healthcare organizations. This experience created a passion for finding improved ways to relieve suffering. His goal as CEO is to work daily to relieve all patients who seek better health and wellness through the medicinal benefits of medical cannabis and evidence-based alternative medicines.
