12 May What Veterans Should Know About CBD Oil and PTSD
Around 20% of veterans served in the Middle East and suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after their service. According to the Veterans Association, the number of veteran suicides in 2017 was at twenty each day according to VA reports. Veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or other mental health issues often have trouble adjusting to civilian life and, in some cases, end up on the streets, addicted to drugs, or even commit suicide due to the stress brought on by these issues.
The National Institutes of Health has found that many deaths are caused by over-prescribing opioids and other medications prescribed to veterans once they have been wounded. Vets who have served in combat sometimes suffer from chronic pain linked to combat service, making it that much more challenging for them to return to normal life. Many who suffer from chronic pain are prescribed opioid medications to ease their symptoms. Unfortunately, this can lead to side effects such as anxiety, mood swings, stress, and sleep disorders. In this article, we will discuss the use of CBD oil and PTSD.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is a compound extract made from the Cannabis Sativa plant, and it consists of a compound that contains CBD. In recent years, CBD supplements have gained popularity as effective recovery remedies. For example, CBD oil can be used in various ways to relieve aches and pains, inflammations, and spasms caused by muscle spasms in our body. Additionally, CBD oil can help treat mental issues such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
CBD can facilitate recovery from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This study published by the US National Library of Medicine found that CBD could help eliminate aversive memories and prevent their reoccurrence.
Related Article: What is CBD Oil? A Guide for Veterans
What Is PTSD?
PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), sometimes called shell shock or combat stress, is a psychological condition caused by significant pain or trauma, especially when there are immediate dangers in the environment. Sometimes, your body and mind go into shock due to a traumatic event, but PTSD is when your nervous system gets “stuck” because it has no way out.
How CBD Helps Veterans With PTSD
Researchers found that CBD is the most effective medication for dealing with traumatic events. This means that combat soldiers, Veterans, and people with various medical conditions can use CBD within an hour of experiencing the disorder and significantly reduce the severity. The VA and military may use CBD oil products to manage both of these conditions if this is the case. CBD will not cure PTSD as it does not eliminate the condition, however, it is an excellent resource for treating the symptoms. As a result of regular CBD usage, people can better manage the symptoms of PTSD and post-war anxiety.
As a result of a study conducted by the University of Birmingham (UK), researchers identified that CBD could inhibit the expression of fear in rats when tested. Additionally, CBD was found to produce a longer-lasting reduction in overall anxiety in patients in the same study.
What Is the Recommended CBD Dosage for PTSD?
There are several ways to utilize CBD for PTSD Veterans, including creams, pills, oils, and gummies. Ingredients and dosages of these products can vary widely, and there isn’t much research on safe and beneficial dosages for treating specific conditions.
To start, take 10 to 20 mg daily unless your doctor recommends a higher dosage. Make sure you take this for a week to ensure it works well and doesn’t cause any side effects or allergies. After that, you can increase by 5mg every week until the desired result is achieved if this dose does not work.
Varying dosages have been reported in studies ranging from 20 mg to 1,500 mg per day. According to the World Health Organization, clinical trials with cannabis have a typical dosage range of 100 to 800 milligrams per day.
Best Supplements for PTSD
PTSD can be treated with several great treatments and supplements. Some of these include:
GABA: GABA is an essential vitamin for the brain, and it works well as a supplement for PTSD.
Omega Fatty Acids: Omega 3’s help fight depression, making it a good fit for supplements for PTSD. Omega 3 fatty acids help regulate metabolism.
Vitamin B-Complex: A vitamin B complex is one of the best supplements for PTSD.
VA Policy on CBD Oil
The Department of Veterans Affairs is being asked to reconsider its policy on medical cannabis as more states decide to allow its medical use.
House Resolution 5520, The VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act of 2018, is introduced by Representatives Phil Roe (R) of Tennessee and Tim Walz (D) of Minnesota. Medical marijuana research would be authorized by the Department of Veterans Affairs under that bill.
Marijuana users who use the drug to relieve the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or other service-related medical conditions may be hesitant to discuss their use with their VA provider for fear that they may be penalized for doing so.
Does the VA Allow CBD Oil Use?
At this time, the Veterans Affairs Department of the USA only allows its clinicians to prescribe medications that are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in medical procedures.” At this point, CBD is not regulated by the FDA. Therefore, within the VA medical system, none of its physicians can prescribe or recommend it to patients for use.
Alternative Treatments for PTSD
A wide variety of complementary and alternative therapies are available when dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder. These therapies include acupuncture, moxibustion, Chinese herbs, meditation, yoga, yogic breathwork, mind-body therapy, and tai chi. All of these therapies can be used simultaneously or separately.
Look For Help With PTSD
You can reduce symptoms of PTSD by learning to deal with the trauma you have experienced. The doctor or therapist will encourage you to recall and process your emotions during the actual experience. This will help you lose the powerful grip that memory holds over your life.
Additionally, the treatment will include:
- Examining your feelings and thoughts associated with the trauma.
- Dealing with feelings of guilt and mistrust.
- Learning how to deal with intrusive memories and addressing the problems PTSD has caused you in your everyday life and relationships.
Choose a mental health professional specializing in treating trauma and PTSD when seeking a therapist. Referrals to a local mental health clinic, psychiatric hospital, or counseling center can be obtained from a doctor or other trauma survivors. Use what you have learned about CBD oil and PTSD and talk to your doctor about the best treatment for you.
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