Anxiety Article

Article Summary:
Recent findings published in JAMA Psychiatry underscore the contrasting effects of CBD and THC on mental health outcomes, particularly in relation to anxiety. A comprehensive meta-analysis of 83 studies and over 22,000 participants revealed that while heavy cannabis use increases the risk of psychotic disorders, CBD, a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, demonstrates superior efficacy in alleviating anxiety compared to THC. The study highlighted that individuals who regularly consume THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, face heightened risks of developing psychotic disorders, especially with daily or near-daily use. In contrast, CBD has shown promise in reducing anxiety symptoms without the psychoactive effects associated with THC. The research emphasized a dose-response relationship, where higher levels of THC consumption correlated with increased risks of psychotic disorders, particularly among those genetically predisposed. Conversely, CBD’s ability to effectively ease anxiety was noted across various studies, indicating its potential as a safer alternative for managing anxiety disorders. These findings underscore the need for informed public health strategies and policies that differentiate between the impacts of THC and CBD, promoting the use of CBD for its therapeutic benefits in mental health contexts.