A new study published in BMC Psychiatry claims that many individuals suffering from depression and anxiety find that cannabis improves their sleep. According to the study’s authors, the findings suggest the need for placebo-controlled trials to examine whether cannabinoids may assist with insomnia symptoms.
Although this situation affects many people, treatment for sleeplessness is limited. Current options include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia, which is effective in some cases, and medications like Ambien, which can be addictive and come with a host of side effects.
The study authors say that their findings suggest that cannabis could be a “promising sleep aid” for those with depression and anxiety.
Nishi Kuhathasan and colleagues looked at data from 100 individuals with depression, 463 people with anxiety, and 114 people who had both. Participants were followed for a year after enrolling in the study. Participants used an app to document their sleeplessness symptoms and other information about marijuana use. Furthermore, participants provided demographic information.
The results showed that those with depression and anxiety who used cannabis had significantly lower levels of insomnia symptoms than those who did not use the drug. Cannabis users also reported less daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
There are a few potential reasons cannabis might help improve sleep among those with depression and anxiety. First, marijuana use can lead to increased levels of serotonin in the brain, which is known to regulate sleep. Second, cannabis use may help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can also interfere with sleep.
It is important to note that this study was observational, so it cannot prove that cannabis causes improved sleep. However, the findings align with other research that has suggested that marijuana use may be helpful for those with mental illness.
If someone is considering using cannabis to help with sleep, you must talk to your doctor first. Cannabis can interact with some medications and may not be suitable for everyone.
Do you suffer from insomnia and depression, or anxiety? Have you ever considered using cannabis to help with your sleep?
