Does Weed Help With Bipolar Disorder? Relief & Benefits
This post is part of our Best Dispensary in San Diego series, sponsored by The Healing Center San Diego.
The content of this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or another qualified health professional before making any changes to your treatment or if you have any concerns about your mental health. Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read here.
If you’re one among over 5 million Americans who struggle with bipolar disorder, you might be asking, does weed help bipolar disorder? For anyone living with this complex mental health condition, finding effective treatments can sometimes feel like searching for a life preserver in a tumultuous ocean. But what if cannabis holds the key to calming the storm of mood swings and depressive episodes? We’re here to answer these and other questions you might have about bipolar disorder and weed.
Table of Contents
Weed and Bipolar Disorder
There is no conclusive, final word about whether or not weed can help bipolar disorder. In fact, medical and mental health studies are still being conducted to determine its efficacy. However, people in the bipolar community have shared their thoughts over the years about their experiences. These observations and mental health research are leaning in favor of marijuana use for several reasons.
Some people claim that marijuana can provide relief from symptoms such as mood swings and anxiety, which are commonly associated with bipolar disorder. Marijuana may also aid in reducing anxiety and stress. Many strains of cannabis contain compounds known as cannabinoids. These cannabinoids attach to receptors in the brain responsible for regulating emotions. This interaction can result in a calming effect on the user, potentially alleviating symptoms of anxiety often experienced by those with bipolar disorder.
Moreover, some individuals find that using marijuana helps them sleep better at night. Sleep disturbances are common among people with bipolar disorder and can exacerbate mood symptoms. The relaxing properties of certain strains of cannabis may promote more restful sleep and contribute to overall well-being. All that said, it’s crucial to talk to your mental health provider for guidance in determining if weed can help bipolar disorder in your situation.
Is Smoking Weed The Only Way To Consume THC for the Treatment of Bipolar Disorder?
Can bipolar people smoke weed? Yes, they can, but they can get the benefits of marijuana without having to smoke it. While smoking may be a popular choice, it certainly isn’t the only way to consume CBD or THC. Thanks to the marvels of modern medicine and science, the cannabis plant has been repurposed in various forms for consumption, such as:
- Edibles: From cookies to gummy bears – there’s an edible weed-infused product you can take instead of smoking.
- Drinkables: Soda, vitamin waters, tea, coffee – you can find CBD or THC-laced drinks at a reputable dispensary.
- Liquid Drops: Known as tinctures, this oil suspension can be taken sublingually (under the tongue).
- Pastilles: Also known as lozenges, weed-infused drops can be consumed like hard candy.
Another option is vaporizing. Yes, it involves inhaling, but it is less harsh on the lungs. Vaporizers heat up cannabis flower or concentrates at lower temperatures than combustion methods like smoking do. This allows users to inhale vapor instead of cough-inducing smoke.
Is Sativa or Indica Better For Bipolar Disorder?
In our quest to answer the question, “Can weed help bipolar disorder?” we’d be remiss without mentioning that different types might be better than others. Choosing between sativa and indica strains for bipolar disorder isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Each strain has its own unique effects, and what works for one person may not work for another.
Sativa strains are hailed for their energizing and invigorating effects. It’s got more THC levels, which prompts that “high” feeling. Sativa can help improve mood, increase focus, and promote creativity. These qualities might be beneficial for individuals with bipolar disorder who experience periods of depression or low energy levels.
Then we have indica strains. These are often described as “full body high” strains, as indica is often associated with relaxation and sedation. Indica has calming effects that can help reduce anxiety, promote sleep, and alleviate stress. This can be particularly helpful during manic episodes or when experiencing high levels of agitation.
What Are the Best Strains For Bipolar Disorder?
Different strains can have varying effects on mood and energy levels, so it’s a good idea to choose ones that work best for managing bipolar symptoms. But with roughly 700-800 different strains out there, how do you know which one might be best for bipolar? We’ve got a few suggestions.
Blue Dream: This sativa-dominant hybrid offers a gentle uplift in mood and energy without causing anxiety or paranoia. It can help promote feelings of euphoria and relaxation, which can be beneficial during manic or depressive episodes.
Granddaddy Purple: This indica-dominant hybrid provides deep relaxation and sedation, making it ideal for calming racing thoughts and promoting sleep during manic phases. It may also alleviate symptoms of depression by inducing a sense of tranquility and peace.
Green Crack: This sativa strain delivers an energetic boost while also enhancing focus and creativity. It can help combat fatigue during depressive episodes while providing motivation and mental clarity.
Please bear in mind that different strains will vary from person to person based on individual preferences and the specific symptoms they experience. Experimenting with different strains under professional guidance may be necessary to find what works best for your unique needs
How To Purchase Marijuana
At the time of this writing, 24 states in the US have legalized weed, making it as easy as going to a licensed dispensary to purchase marijuana products. If you don’t live in California or any of the other 23 legal weed states, then you’ll have to get a medical marijuana card (known as an MMJ) to purchase weed for bipolar disorder.
Once you’ve established that, it’s time to buy some weed. But where to go? We highly recommend The Healing Center San Diego. This clean, professional dispensary is the perfect place to make purchases – especially for first-timers. They are licensed, have an amazing buffet of products, and their staff members (known as budtenders) are super-knowledgeable and friendly. Show up with questions (or your prescription), and the accommodating team at THCSD will happily help you.
Key Takeaways On Weed And Bipolar Disorder
So, does weed help bipolar disorder? Let’s take a minute to rehash what we’ve discovered:
- Each Individual Experience is Different: It’s necessary to recognize that everyone’s experience with using weed to manage bipolar disorder may differ. What works for one person may not work for another.
- Potential Benefits: Some individuals report finding relief from symptoms such as mood highs and lows, anxiety, and insomnia. Nevertheless, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks.
- You Don’t Have to Smoke It: Thanks to clever chemistry, weed now comes in many different forms, such as edibles, drinkables, and tinctures.
- Strain Selection Matters: Different strains of marijuana contain varying levels of THC and CBD. Each can produce different effects on mood and energy levels. Experimenting with different strains under professional guidance might help find the most suitable option.
- Consider Professional Guidance: If you are considering using weed as a part of your treatment plan for bipolar disorder, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or psychiatrist who specializes in mental health.
Conclusion
Does weed help bipolar? There is compelling anecdotal evidence (user experiences) that indicates marijuana shows some promise in managing this condition. But don’t take someone else’s word for it. If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms associated with bipolar disorder, reaching out for professional help from licensed therapists or psychiatrists trained in treating mood disorders remains essential. Subsequently, you and your mental healthcare provider may determine marijuana as a bright contender for relieving symptoms relating to your specific condition.
Media credit: Unless otherwise noted, the images in this article are copyright of LaJolla.com
Named after Pearl Street in La Jolla, Pearl is the unofficial mascot of the various elves on the daily news desk at LaJolla.com. We’re writers, editors, and people who work on websites; sometimes so many people work on one project that no one feels like they should take the credit.
