We all have experienced being anxious and scared at some point in our lives. Public speaking, phobias, over worrying about something… these are normal manifestations of anxiety. However, sometimes it may happen too often or for a long period of time warning us that something might be wrong. Environmental factors can trigger anxiety but it can also be caused by physical and internal factors. CBD may be a natural alternative for anxiety helping the body rebalance and heal organically.
Anxiety Explained
Anxiety is a feeling of fear and worry. It is our body’s natural response to stress. Some situations make you feel anxious but a little anxiety is normal. Anxiety can help you to be more aware of your surroundings and to focus on the task ahead. However, prolonged anxiety can have a negative impact on your body.
The type of anxiety that lasts for more than 6 months, and/or interferes with your daily activities are extreme forms of anxiety. A person experiencing this may have an anxiety disorder. Although depression is a different condition, studies have shown that it is related to anxiety. It has been observed that people who experience depression exhibit one of the multiple forms of anxiety.
Symptoms
Anxiety attacks people differently and the symptoms also vary from person to person. Some may feel an upset stomach or palpitations. Nightmares, panic attacks, fear or worry, and feeling out of control can also be manifestations of anxiety.
The most common symptoms are:
- Palpitations
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Lack of focus
Anxiety is very common. Studies suggest that it is observed in 1 out of 8 children. Studies also found that lifestyle changes and medication can help manage it.
There are a couple of known anxiety disorders. These include:
Panic Disorder – panic attacks happening at undetermined times. Someone with a panic disorder will be fearful of not knowing when the next attack will occur
Phobia – these are fears (normally irrational) exclusive to a specific object or situation
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) – a fear of being judged or being around people
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – repeated behaviors caused by irrational thoughts
Separation Anxiety Disorder – a type of anxiety disorder that may manifest when being away from family, home or loved ones
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – anxiety after a traumatic situation or experience
Can CBD help with Anxiety?
CBD is one of the more than 100 chemicals found in Cannabis and Hemp. It does not have psychoactive properties. Research has also shown that CBD has properties that may help in managing stress. CBD is known to interact with the EndoCannabinoid System in our body. It binds with the CB1 and CB2 receptors, mostly found in our central and peripheral nervous systems. It is also known to alter serotonin signals.
Serotonin is a chemical that our own body produces. It is made of the essential amino acid tryptophan. Serotonin is known to be a natural mood stabilizer. Low serotonin levels in our system can result in mood disorders such as anxiety or depression.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse, based on studies for General Anxiety Disorder, says that CBD has been shown to reduce stress in rats. Other studies also show that CBD can help reduce the anxiety levels for SAD and PTSD as well.
In 2016, research has also found that CBD can have antipsychotic effects in people with schizophrenia.
Bottomline
CBD shows promise in terms of helping its users manage stress and anxiety. It can be potentially good news especially for people who are experiencing it.
Please refer to our last blogs (click here)to help you learn more about what CBD can potentially do for you
All information contained in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a physician or a qualified healthcare provider for any questions regarding your health and well-being.