College life can become incredibly stressful between exams, social situations and figuring out your life. Sometimes, that stress can morph into something more intense, like an anxiety disorder. While some people may turn to cannabis use to help them manage their anxiety, the effects can be complex.
Understanding cannabis
Cannabis, which can also be known as marijuana or weed, contains chemicals called cannabinoids. These cannabinoids interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in mood, pain perception and memory. The two main cannabinoids in cannabis are:
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis, meaning it affects your brain and how you think and feel. THC is the chemical that produces the “high” that is associated with cannabis use.
- Cannabidiol (CBD) — CBD is a cannabinoid that doesn’t produce a high but can have some health benefits. It’s important to note that there is still ongoing research into the efficacy and safety of using CBD.
What is anxiety and what are the symptoms?
Anxiety is the feeling of worry or fear that can happen when you face stressful situations. It’s something everyone can experience, but for some people it can be intense and happen often, which can make daily life harder. Anxiety is present in a variety of disorders, including:
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Panic disorders
- Specific phobias
- Separation anxiety disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Each of these anxiety disorders has its own set of worries and fears. However, they can cause some similar symptoms, including:
- Racing heart
- Rapid breathing
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Muscle tension
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
- Excessive worrying
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Difficulty concentrating
- Intrusive thoughts
- Fear of losing control
Why does anxiety happen in college?
College is a time of transition and change. You’re facing new challenges, meeting new people and trying to figure out your future. This can be stressful and overwhelming, leading to anxiety. Some common triggers for anxiety in college students may include:
- Academic pressure — Exams, deadlines and the pressure to succeed can lead to experiencing anxiety.
- Social challenges — Making new friends, fitting in and navigating social situations can be anxiety provoking.
- Financial stress — Worrying about money, paying bills and student loans can be a major source of anxiety for college students.
- New environment — Living away from home for the first time can be stressful and lead to feelings of homesickness or loneliness.
- Family conflicts — Difficulties with family can add to feelings of stress and anxiety.
- Relationship problems — Breakups, arguments or strained relationships can trigger anxiety.
How can cannabis help anxiety?
Some people report that cannabis can help them feel calmer and less anxious. Here are some potential benefits of using cannabis to help manage anxiety:
- Reduced anxiety — Low doses of THC may have temporary calming effects for some people. It may help ease social anxiety in specific situations.
- Improved sleep — Anxiety can disrupt sleep, and some people find that cannabis helps them fall asleep and stay asleep longer.
How can cannabis hurt anxiety?
While using cannabis may seem like an easy solution, it’s important to consider the risks:
- Increased anxiety — High doses of THC, or cannabis use in general for some people, can actually make anxiety worse and trigger attacks. This can be because THC can increase a person’s heart rate and racing thoughts, mimicking anxiety symptoms.
- Dependence — Regular cannabis use can lead to dependence, making it harder to manage anxiety without using it.
- Mental health issues — There may be a link between long-term cannabis use and an increased risk of developing psychosis, especially in young people whose brains are still developing.
If you’re considering using cannabis while having an anxiety disorder, it’s important to consider:
- Individual differences — Everyone reacts to cannabis differently. What helps one person may make another person’s anxiety worse.
- Underlying conditions — If you have an existing mental health condition, using cannabis may interact with medications or make symptoms worse.
- Age and brain development — Cannabis use can be particularly risky for teenagers and young adults whose brains are still developing.
- Legality — You want to make sure that using cannabis is legal in your location. Laws widely vary by state and region. Using cannabis where it’s illegal can lead to legal issues and complications.
Treatment options for anxiety disorders
There are safe and effective ways to help you manage your anxiety disorder without resorting to cannabis use. Here are some alternatives you can consider:
- Therapy — A therapist can help you understand your anxiety, as well as how to develop healthy coping mechanisms and identify your triggers. Different types of therapy work in different ways, so finding the right fit or combination of techniques is crucial. Your therapist may incorporate components of evidence-based techniques that are effective in helping with anxiety, like cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and exposure therapy.
- Relaxation techniques — Your therapist can teach you relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery, to help you manage anxiety symptoms in the moment.
- Lifestyle changes — Regular exercise, a healthy and balanced diet, and getting enough sleep can contribute to better mental well-being. These healthy habits can help reduce your anxiety symptoms.
- Mindfulness — Mindfulness practices like meditation can help you focus on the present moment and reduce anxiety-provoking thoughts.
- Support groups — Connecting with others who understand what you’re going through can be a source of support and encouragement.
Let Lightfully U be your safe haven for long-term anxiety relief
At Lightfully U, we understand the allure of quick fixes, but we prioritize your long-term well-being. We offer a variety of levels of care, each using personalized and whole-person-centered care provided by deeply compassionate experts. We believe in using a framework of evidence-based techniques to address the root cause of your anxiety, not just the symptoms. Therapy is a safe and effective alternative to cannabis use, with lasting results that help empower you to thrive. You don’t have to settle for temporary relief with potential risks. We can help you take charge of your mental health for a healthier and happier future.
Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, contact us. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.
