Finding the best treatment option for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can be difficult. That is why many sufferers turn to self-medication and end up dealing with worsening symptoms. People who suffer from OCD should not experimentally treat the symptoms with illicit drugs. And those who prefer to use marijuana for their condition should get with a prescription instead of from a dealer off the street.
The severity of the disorder varies by person. Depending on the symptoms of OCD, sufferers may find marijuana helpful in relieving the symptoms. OCD often occurs with anxiety and marijuana has been effective in creating a temporary calming of anxiety. Keep reading to learn more about medical marijuana and ocd:
OCD Overview
OCD is a kind of anxiety disorder characterized by unwanted thoughts or actions that disrupt a person’s normal life. In general, a person with OCD experiences recurring obsessions or compulsions that include intrusive ruminations, rituals for checking or counting, fear of contamination and dirt, an obsession with order, symmetry, pattern, and organization, as well as hoarding old, damaged possessions. If a sufferer ignores such thoughts and tries to bypass their strict routines and rituals, they may experience serious anxiety and distress.
People with OCD have difficulty focusing on their loved ones or advancing their careers. As a result, all areas of their lives are compromised, increasing their OCD’s psychological effects and putting the person at a higher risk for developing depression and loneliness.
Symptoms of OCD
Patients with OCD experience different symptoms. Luckily, medical marijuana can help with most of these symptoms such as urges, impulsive behavior, repetitive behavior, social isolation, anxiety, depression, and stress. Also, medical marijuana may help limit the undesirable side effects of some OCD medications like nausea, weight loss, restlessness, headaches, insomnia, and abdominal cramps.
Typical Treatments for OCD
OCD is typically treated using medications, cognitive therapy, and exposure and response prevention therapy. Although therapy has been shown effective in managing OCD, it doesn’t produce immediate results. This is the reason medications are usually used. Unfortunately, antidepressants and anxiety medications come with negative side effects such as headaches, nausea, insomnia, depression, and more.
Medical Marijuana for OCD
Medical marijuana may be helpful for some patients in the same way it has been effective for treating anxiety. Medical marijuana contains cannabidiol (CBD) instead of THC. It doesn’t have the effects associated with non-medical marijuana. Medical marijuana can reduce a person’s anxiety or paranoia.
