1 in 10 people in the UK are expected to experience PTSD at some point in their lives. This is an alarming statistic, and calls for more awareness and treatment options.
PTSD can cause significant distress for the person living with it and for their loved ones, can lead to substance abuse and, sadly, suicide if left untreated.
Alternative treatments such as medical cannabis for PTSD have gained traction in recent years. While the research for how medical cannabis might help manage PTSD is still in the early stages, some studies have had some encouraging results.
Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available on prescription through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf for 50+ conditions. You can find out if you’re eligible by completing the quick eligibility checker on our website.
But first it’s important to understand what PTSD is, what symptoms it can have and how PTSD is related to the endocannabinoid system.
PTSD Explained
Many different experiences can lead to PTSD, but the condition is usually associated with witnessing or nearly experiencing death, serious injury and/or sexual violence. People might also develop PTSD if they learn that any of these events happened to a close friend or family member.
In the most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) PTSD is listed under the ‘Trauma and Stressor-related Disorders’ category. People with PTSD experience several symptoms relating to a traumatic event that happened to them or that they witnessed. Some of the symptoms of PTSD can include:
- recurring, intrusive memories of the traumatic event
- recurring nightmares about the traumatic event
- flashbacks that can feel as if the person is reliving the traumatic event
- distress after encountering something that reminds the person of the traumatic event
- avoiding things, situations or people who remind the person of the traumatic event
- persistent feelings of guilt, shame, fear or anger
- self-destructive or reckless behaviour
- trouble with falling or staying asleep
- hypervigilance
- inability to experience positive emotions
People with PTSD may also experience derealisation or depersonalisation. Derealisation is when the world appears unreal or dreamlike, while depersonalisation is when someone feels disconnected from themselves or like they are watching themselves as an outside observer. PTSD may also lead to reckless behaviour such as dangerous driving, excessive alcohol consumption or illicit drug use.
Understanding the Endocannabinoid System and PTSD
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network of cellular receptors that help regulate several bodily functions including mood, appetite and sleep. There are two types of cannabinoid receptors in the ECS: CB1 receptors (found in the brain and central nervous system) and CB2 receptors (found in peripheral tissues and immune cells).
When you consume medical cannabis, you introduce phytocannabinoids into your system that interact with your CB1 and CB2 receptors. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are both phytocannabinoids, but have different effects. THC is primarily responsible for the psychotropic effects of medical cannabis, which is commonly referred to as a ‘high.’
Researchers are exploring phytocannabinoids for how they may be able to help people with PTSD. Some research suggests that heightened signalling within the ECS may improve certain symptoms that are common in people with PTSD such as an exaggerated stress response.
Medical Cannabis’ Potential in Alleviating PTSD Symptoms
Although the evidence isn’t yet conclusive, there is some positive clinical evidence to suggest that medical cannabis may help manage some aspects of PTSD. A recent review of human studies suggests that low doses of THC, sometimes with CBD, may be useful in reducing fear associated with traumatic memories.
More specifically, a 2020 study explored the effect that THC has on the amygdala – the brain region responsible for the sensation and regulation of fear. THC has a strong affinity for the CB1 receptors, which are found in large numbers in the amygdala.
The study split participants into three groups: adults with PTSD who were previously exposed to trauma, adults exposed to trauma but without PTSD and healthy adults without trauma. Researchers randomly assigned participants a 7.5 milligram dose of synthetic THC or a placebo, and found that the group who received the THC had reduced activity in their amygdala compared to those who received the placebo.
Another recent review indicates that THC may have some use in reducing nightmares associated with PTSD through its ability to modify REM sleep (the sleep stage when dreams occur). The review notes, however, that more randomised controlled trials are needed to better understand the potential benefits. Another older study supports these findings, however, with participants experiencing reduced hyperarousal symptoms and reduced nightmares associated with PTSD.
These results suggest that THC may have some use in managing PTSD symptoms. More research is needed, however, especially on how medical cannabis might affect PTSD in the long term.
What Does the Research Say About Cannabis and PTSD?
The above is a short summary of the current state of evidence - observational studies and ongoing trials. And whilst some studies suggest cannabis may help manage symptoms such as anxiety or sleep issues, further research is needed. It’s also important to remember that findings are preliminary and not conclusive.
When to Speak to a Doctor About PTSD Symptoms
It’s important to seek professional evaluation before considering medical cannabis. This is because medical cannabis for PTSD treatment in the UK isn't always a replacement for therapy or first-line PTSD treatments. Instead, many people use it alongside more conventional treatments for PTSD.
So, if you’re exploring whether a PTSD medical cannabis prescription may be appropriate for you, speak to a specialist doctor for guidance. Or, seek the help of a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf. Our experts are here to support you.
How to Access Medical Cannabis for PTSD in the UK
Some people look to medical cannabis when they haven’t found relief with conventional treatments.
When it comes to getting a prescription of medical cannabis for PTSD, you can easily find out if you qualify through a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf. You’ll need a diagnosis of a qualifying condition. You’ll also need evidence of being offered at least two conventional treatments for this condition.
One of our expert clinicians will assess your medical history and monitor your progress if you become a patient. This is because medical cannabis is only available by prescription under the supervision of a specialist doctor.
Keep in mind, if you’re pregnant or have a history of psychosis or schizophrenia, you won’t qualify. Complete our 30 second eligibility checker to find out if you qualify now.
Are there any risks of using cannabis to treat PTSD?
It’s important to follow your doctor's guidance when using medical cannabis for any condition. Larger doses of THC may worsen anxiety in people with PTSD rather than reducing it, so it’s important to stick to your prescribed dose.
Cannabis may also have some links to psychosis in vulnerable people, particularly when used illicitly or excessively. When used with the guidance of a medical professional, however, medical cannabis is usually safe.
FAQs
How can I find out if I’m eligible for a medical cannabis prescription for PTSD?
Only a specialist doctor, like the expert clinicians at Alternaleaf, can determine whether or not you’ll qualify for medical cannabis treatment for PTSD or prescribed cannabis for trauma in the UK.
What does PTSD do to a person?
PTSD can affect mood, memory, and sleep, often causing heightened stress responses. Each person’s experience varies, but often it causes significant distress for the person suffering, and their loved ones.
Can medical cannabis help reduce anxiety or nightmares linked to PTSD?
Some people may seek medical cannabis for PTSD symptom relief in the UK, as there’s a handful of research that suggests medical cannabis may help manage certain PTSD-related symptoms, such as anxiety or sleep disturbance. This is largely due to how medical cannabis, and the compounds found in the cannabis plant - like THC and CBD - interact with the endocannabinoid system. PTSD is one condition we prescribe for at Alternaleaf, but this is under specialist doctor supervision, and effects may vary between individuals.
Are there side effects of using medical cannabis for PTSD?
The majority of patients experience little to no side effects from medical cannabis. But some possible side effects may include fatigue, dizziness, or mood changes. These usually go away on their own, but if they don’t, or they bother you, speak to your clinician. It’s important to use prescribed products, as you can trust the source you’re purchasing from, and follow specialist guidance and advice. Alternaleaf are with you every step of the way.
Finding help for PTSD symptoms
If you've found conventional methods for treating your PTSD to be minimally effective or if you've experienced unwanted side effects, you may be eligible for medical cannabis treatment through Alternaleaf. If eligible, our team of doctors will assess your symptoms and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
PTSD is a serious condition that needs to be managed with appropriate treatments and care – it’s vital to reach out to your GP or a specialist as soon as possible if you’re at all worried about your or someone else’s mental health.