Mental health
The term 'mental health' refers to the state of mental wellbeing. There are a number of mental health illnesses, disorders, and issues that negatively impact the regulation of emotions and behaviours including anxiety, depression and PTSD.
It has been estimated by NHS England that 25% of adults will experience some form of mental illness at some point in their lifetime. Currently, the most frequently diagnosed mental health illnesses are anxiety, depression and PTSD, all of which disturb thinking, behavioural, and emotional regulation. Other mental health illnesses include schizophrenia, psychosis, personality disorders, eating disorders, and bipolar disorder.
Can medical cannabis be prescribed for mental health conditions?
Medical cannabis became a legal treatment option here in the UK in 2018, and can be prescribed for some, but not all, mental health conditions.
Which mental health conditions can be treated with medical cannabis?
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has provided guidance on which mental health conditions medical cannabis can be prescribed for. These include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- PTSD
- Eating disorders
- OCD
How does medical cannabis work for mental health conditions?
Medical cannabis works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for regulating mood, stress response, and other physiological processes. Medical cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids (CBD and THC are cannabinoids) that mimic the endocannabinoids produced by the body. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, medical cannabis can help regulate mood and reduce the symptomatic toll of mental health conditions.
What are the benefits of using medical cannabis for mental health?
One of the main benefits of using medical cannabis for mental health is its ability to provide relief from symptoms with potentially fewer side effects than traditional pharmaceutical medications. Medical cannabis has also been shown to have a lower risk of dependency or addiction compared to some prescription drugs commonly prescribed for mental health conditions.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with using medical cannabis for mental health?
As with any medication, there are potential risks and side effects associated with using medical cannabis for mental health. These can include changes in mood or behaviour, drowsiness, and potential interactions with other medications. It is important to consult with a specialist doctor before starting any new treatment plan.
How can I access medical cannabis for my mental health condition?
To access medical cannabis for a mental health condition, you will need to have a consultation with a specialist doctor who is registered to prescribe it. The NHS is currently unwilling to offer medical cannabis for any mental health issues.
Thankfully, private medical cannabis clinics like Releaf are available to provide consultations and treatment for mental health conditions using medical cannabis.
To find out if you are potentially qualify for medical cannabis treatment in the UK, check out our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker.
If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help. In addition to this medical cannabis glossary, we have an extensive blog and education hub to explore, both filled with resources that UK medical cannabis patients, prescribers, and educators have been asking for.