Using CBD to Fight Anxiety and Depression

by Kevin Smith Author

What is CBD exactly? CBD is short for cannabidiol, which is a compound found in cannabis and hemp. You’ve probably noticed dozens of CBD stores and online ads recently and that’s because everyone’s starting to realize CBD’s potential in treating both physical and mental disorders. There’s a large portion of the population that suffers daily with some form of anxiety and/or depression. CBD is most notably being used to treat these conditions. You can use CBD in a number of different ways. Some people enjoy CBD gummies while others will use a vape pen or tinctures. Regardless of the path you choose, CBD can be a helpful alternative to prescription drugs that are commonly used to decrease depression and anxiety.

CBD vs THC

When people hear of CBD, many will immediately think of marijuana. It’s important to note that THC and CBD are not the same things. THC is the component in marijuana that makes you feel “high” or “stoned”. Unfortunately, many patients who suffer from anxiety or depression will avoid CBD because they believe their anxiety will become worse if they expose themselves to something that’s similar to marijuana. Remember that CBD works in a very different way. CBD can offer relief without making you feel high.

Lack of Side Effects

One of the benefits of using CBD to treat anxiety and depression is the fact that it will produce very few side effects or no side effects at all. The vast majority of people who have used CBD to treat either mental or physical conditions have stated that they don’t experience any kind of side effects. If you’ve ever been prescribed medication to treat anxiety or depression, you know that there are some significant side effects that you can encounter. Prescription medication used to treat these conditions might include headaches, nausea, or fatigue. You’re much less likely to experience these sorts of side effects with CBD.

CBD and Your Neurochemistry

CBD offers a sense of balance to your endocannabinoid system or ECS, which is a system of neurotransmitters and receptors that dictate many different functions of our mind and body. When you’re depressed or feeling stressed, your ECS will not be functioning properly. CBD works towards restoring your ECS in a more indirect way than other medications. CBD doesn’t bind to the receptors in our ECS but acts more as a regulator. This can help you feel relief from things like stress, anxiety, panic attacks, or depression. CBD gummies have become a very popular way for people to find that balance in their ECS, and enjoy a nice snack at the same time. But it’s important to note that you should only purchase CBD products from trustworthy distributors that offer high quality, pure, and lab-tested full-spectrum CBD.