Rates of diagnosed depression have been steadily rising both here in the UK and globally for the past few decades. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, depression is now the leading cause of disability worldwide. That's kind of depressing in and of itself.
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To add insult to injury, they may not even be that effective - a recent study found that 10%–30% of patients with major depression do not respond to typical antidepressant medications. Again, pretty depressing stuff.
But it's not all doom and gloom, folks.
Medical cannabis became a legal treatment option for depression in the UK in 2018, and there has been an increasing amount of research into its potential benefits for mental health conditions.
So, if you're one of the many people who struggle with depression and are interested in exploring alternative options, read on to discover some of the best weed strains for depression that may provide relief for your symptoms.
Key Takeaways
Individual Responses Vary: Each person may experience the effects of cannabis strains differently due to factors such as personal tolerance, metabolism, genetics, and the specific growing conditions of the plant.
Consult Specialists: It's crucial to consult with a specialist at a private medical cannabis clinic to find the most suitable strain and dosage for your specific needs. Expert guidance can minimize risks and enhance the benefits.
Variety of Consumption Methods: Cannabis can be consumed in various ways, including vaping, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. Each method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to find what works best for you.
Hybrid Strains Are Versatile: Hybrid strains combine the effects of both Indica and Sativa strains, potentially offering balanced effects that cater to a broad range of needs, from relaxation to increased energy.
Monitor and Adjust: Pay close attention to your body's response to different strains and methods of consumption. Use this feedback to make informed choices and adjustments for optimal relief from depression symptoms.
The science behind cannabis and depression
Before we dive into specific weed strains, let's take a look at the science behind how cannabis may help with depression. The plant contains over 110 different compounds called cannabinoids, but the two most intriguing for depression sufferers are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
These compounds can interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
How?
Well, the name might have given it away, but the ECS is actually the largest neurotransmitter system in the body, consisting of a complex network of receptors and molecules (endocannabinoids).
See the similarity in the words cannabinoids and endocannabinoids?
That's because the plant-based compounds mimic those produced naturally by our bodies. They are also able to interact with the ECS, and modulate the activity of the neurotransmitters involved in regulating mood, stress, pain, sleep, inflammation, ect.
THC for depression explained
THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the "high" feeling. It's also known to have mood-altering effects. We have all heard of the euphoria and joy that can come from lighting up a bifta, but this is now backed up by scientific evidence.
THC interacts directly with the CB1 receptors in the brain, which regulate mood and emotions, as well as pain perception, appetite, and memory. In low doses, it can reduce stress and anxiety, leading to a feeling of relaxation and well-being.
In higher doses, however, THC may have the opposite effect and cause anxiety or paranoia. So, it's important to find a strain with the right balance when using weed for depression relief. More on this further down.
Studies have shown that THC can also interact with the brain's reward system and increase levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of pleasure and motivation. This is why many people report an uplift in mood after using weed for depression relief.
But its effects on mood may go deeper than just boosting dopamine levels. THC has also been found to increase the production of endorphins, which are chemicals that promote feelings of happiness and well-being.
CBD for depression explained
CBD, on the other hand, does not produce any psychoactive effects or 'high', but is believed to have powerful anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties. CBD weakly binds to the CB2 receptors in the ECS, which regulate inflammation, the immune response, and pain perception. It also interacts with other receptors and channels in the brain, such as the serotonin 5-HT1a receptor which plays a role in mood regulation, and by increasing levels of the 'bliss molecule' anandamide (one of our endocannabinoids) - a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of joy and happiness.
Studies have also suggested that CBD can increase activity within the prefrontal cortex (the part of the brain responsible for cognitive functions like decision-making), leading to better control over negative emotions.
Are Sativa, Indica, or Hybrid strains better for depression symptom control?
In the past few years, we have seen a slow shift in the way we categorise marijuana strains. The traditional divisions of 'Indica' and 'Sativa' are now giving way to a more nuanced understanding of the varying cannabinoid and terpene profiles of a particular strain.
Does this mean that the older strain distinctions are irrelevant now?
Not exactly. While there is still value in looking at these broad categories, it's essential to understand that each strain has its unique blend of compounds and won't necessarily fit into one box or the other.
So, how does this relate to depression symptom control?
Some people report that Indica strains help them feel more relaxed and less anxious. In contrast, Sativa strains can provide a boost of energy and creativity—traits that may be helpful for those experiencing fatigue or low motivation as part of their depression symptoms.
But let's not forget about Hybrid strains - which have been cross-bred to offer patients and users the best of both worlds. These strains can provide a balanced effect, with some feeling more energised and others experiencing a sense of relaxation without sedation.
But we all experience the effects of strains at least slightly differently. There are a bunch of factors - your personal tolerance to cannabinoids, your metabolism, your genetics, how the particular strain was grown, etc. - that affect the outcome.
So, when it comes to choosing the right weed strain for depression relief, it's advisable to reach out for help from a specialist working with a private medical cannabis clinic. There are just so many variables to consider, and the last thing you want is to exacerbate your depression symptoms further.
You can also experiment with different varieties and listen to your body's response. Pay attention to how you feel before and after consuming a particular strain and use that information to guide your future choices.
What are the best weed strains for depression?
Now, with all that out of the way, what are the best weed strains for depression?
Again, this is an almost impossible question to answer. Everyone experiences the effects of weed differently, and each strain has its unique blend of cannabinoids and terpenes.
But based on anecdotal evidence, here are some popular strains that have been reported to provide relief for people with depression:
To get the best cannabis strain to help with your depression, we heavily recommend reaching out to a private medical cannabis clinic. The specialists working with these clinics are trained to help patients find the right medical strains and doses for their specific conditions. They can also offer guidance on how to use cannabis safely and effectively, reducing any potential negative effects.
How do you use the best weed strains for depression?
While we all mostly see weed as something to smoke, there are a bunch of ways you can use cannabis. Smoking is one way, but you can also use vaporisers (heating up the cannabis without burning it), edibles (cannabis-infused food and drinks), tinctures (liquid drops under the tongue), and topicals (creams and balms applied to the skin).
Each method has its pros and cons, and again, it's all about finding what works best for you. Keep in mind that it is illegal to smoke medical cannabis in the UK, so most patients vape their prescribed strain instead. Vaping offers a similar experience in terms of the time it takes to feel the effects (15 to 15 minutes), but with a lower risk of potential harm compared to smoking.
Sublingual application (under the tongue) is also popular as it bypasses the digestive system and enters the bloodstream faster, offering rapid relief. Edibles are an option for those who do not want to inhale or have respiratory issues, but it can take longer to feel effects (up to two hours).
Final thoughts
Depression is a horrible condition to deal with, and we know there is no one-size-fits-all solution. conventional pharmaceuticals have their place, and everyone with depression should definitely look at therapy, but cannabis has also shown great potential in helping alleviate depression symptoms for some people.
With the right strain, dose, and method of consumption (not to mention therapy and other support), you may find that weed can make a massive difference to your quality of life!
While you're here, check out all the best weed strains for depression and the best medical cannabis strains - and feel free to reach out at any time should you need any more information.
