CBD and Anxiety

CBD and Anxiety

CBD and Anxiety

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, anxiety is the number one emotional problem in the United States. Anxiety affects 19% of adults. Although anxiety can develop at any age, it is more common among older adults, particularly older women. Millions of men experience anxiety as well. Around 3 million new cases of anxiety among both men and women occur annually.

People who are dealing with anxiety usually begin with self-care as their first-line of treatment. They will try exercise, stress management and relaxation methods to manage their symptoms. The next step may involve professional help and medications.

These medications may include anti-anxiety drugs, antidepressants and sedatives. Unfortunately, each drug comes with a list of side effects. These side effects may include nausea, constipation, fatigue, loss of appetite, and headaches.

Traditional medications may not be fully effective for a large proportion of people who take them. Some negative side effects may also occur, leading to the likelihood some may discontinue taking them.

For many years, researchers have examined the effects of CBD on symptoms of stress and anxiety. They have generally found that CBD can have a calming and relaxing effect. Similarly, it may also relieve feelings of uneasiness, fear, and worry.

As early as the 1980s, it was discovered that CBD reduced anxiety-induced effects of THC. THC is the other common molecule in the hemp plant and the one responsible for the feelings of being high.

CBD has the ability to promote healthy relaxation without the unwanted effects of being high or euphoric that THC can cause. Many studies have demonstrated that CBD can reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety without impairing one’s ability to think clearly.

In a 2010 research article in the Journal of Psychopharmacology researchers reported that CBD has anti-anxiety effects for a condition called Generalized Social Anxiety Disorder. CBD has also been shown to be safe and generally well-tolerated by most people. In certain studies, people who had less anxiety also experienced improved quality of sleep.

While the research continues, there is certainly ample clinical data demonstrating that CBD supplementation is a natural and effective way to manage anxiety and stress related symptoms.

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