CBD and Depression

Table of Contents

If you want to use CBD for therapeutic purposes, it's important to remember that research is still ongoing into this field. This is especially significant in areas such as anxiety, depression, and mental health. That being said, CBD appears to have some benefits for treating depression, especially when dealing with:

Cognitive impairment

Anxiety

Mental Discomfort and Low Mood

CBD oil could also help with other conditions that are related to depression, such as neurological problems and chronic pain. The benefits of CBD overall mean that using it regularly could generally improve a person's mental health, as it can help to increase appetite and promote healthy sleep.

What Does the Research Say about CBD and depression?

Professionals believe that the potential benefits that CBD offers for those with depression are related to the positive effect it has on the brain's serotonin receptors.

Lower serotonin levels are related to depression. Although CBD will not necessarily boost these levels, it may have an impact on how the brain's chemical receptors respond to serotonin that is already in your system.

Back in 2014, a study in animals found that CBD's effect on serotonin receptors produced effects of both anti-anxiety and anti-depressant.

In 2018, a review of some existing studies concluded that CBD has anti-stress effects; this means that it can help to reduce depression that is a consequence of stress.

This is an area that is currently being actively studied, new reviews and research are published all the time. As research grows, information about how to effectively use CBD to treat depression and anxiety will be released by medical professionals.

How Does CBD Compare to Anti-Depression Medications?

CBD offers some benefits over pharmaceutical anti-depressant medications. Many anti-depressant medications can take weeks or months to start working. However,

When it comes to treating depression, CBD does appear to have some benefits over anti-depressant medications.

Most anti-depressant medications take weeks to start working. However, a 2019 study on animals found CBD to have a quick and sustained anti-depressant effect.

Additionally, CBD has fewer side effects than current anti-depressant medications. Sexual dysfunction, insomnia, agitation, and mood swings are common side effects associated with anti-depressants. CBD has shown no issues similar to these.

Warning:

While CBD may help to improve your mental health and overall quality of life, it isn't a replacement for medications prescribed by a professional. It can be dangerous to stop taking anti-depressant medication suddenly. Therefore you should always consult a healthcare professional before stopping any mood-altering prescriptions.