With depression rates steadily rising in the UK, particularly exacerbated by the recent pandemic, finding effective treatments can feel overwhelming. It’s more important than ever to understand the range of symptom-relieving options available, and one such option might be incorporating medicinal cannabis into your treatment plan.

In November 2018, UK legislation legalised the use of cannabis-based medicines for individuals with a wide range of physical and mental health issues, including clinical depression. Although medical cannabis is not a cure for depression, it may help reduce the symptoms of this debilitating condition.

Depression, alongside anxiety, is the most frequently diagnosed mental health disorder in the UK. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, including:

• Feelings of helplessness

• Persistent sadness

• Lack of motivation

• Low self-esteem

• Excessive guilt

• Thoughts of self-harm

• Suicidal thoughts

CBD and THC are two of the most prominent cannabinoids found in the Cannabis sativa L. plant. THC is known for its intoxicating effects, while CBD has no intoxicating properties. Both cannabinoids may offer therapeutic benefits, but how do you decide which one is more suitable for managing depression symptoms?

Differences Between CBD and THC

Both CBD and THC are classified as phytocannabinoids, meaning they are cannabinoids produced outside the human body. Despite their shared classification, the key differences lie in their chemical structures and psychoactive effects.

THC is the main psychoactive component of cannabis, responsible for the euphoric effects often associated with recreational use. It binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, influencing mood, behaviour, perception, and cognition. Though legal in the UK for medicinal use, THC remains illegal for recreational consumption.

CBD, in contrast, does not produce intoxicating effects and interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system differently. Research suggests CBD reduces the breakdown of naturally occurring endocannabinoids and may increase serotonin production, a neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation. Products containing CBD are legal in the UK, provided they adhere to specific regulations.

Both cannabinoids offer therapeutic benefits, but it’s important to be aware of potential side effects.

• THC side effects: High doses of THC can lead to paranoia, anxiety, increased heart rate, impaired motor skills, dry mouth, and red eyes.

• CBD side effects: Generally well-tolerated, though some patients experience gastrointestinal discomfort, red eyes, and low blood pressure. CBD can also interact with certain medications, though these interactions are usually minor.

Which is Better for Reducing Depression Symptoms: CBD or THC?

When it comes to managing depression, both CBD and THC show promise, but there are important distinctions.

The psychoactive nature of THC may provide temporary relief from depression symptoms, such as relaxation and euphoria. However, it can also lead to anxiety and paranoia, especially in higher doses. THC’s effectiveness in reducing symptoms such as sleep difficulties also appears to be dose-dependent.

A 2022 study titled “An investigation of cannabis application for insomnia in depression and anxiety in a naturalistic sample” found that individuals with depression or combined depression and anxiety benefited from using cannabis to improve sleep. Strains rich in THC appeared to help induce sleep, while CBD-dominant strains were less effective for this purpose.

CBD, on the other hand, is non-intoxicating and may be a better choice for those sensitive to THC’s psychoactive effects. CBD’s interaction with 5-HT1A receptors in the brain may boost serotonin levels, which is closely linked to reduced depression symptoms. Higher serotonin levels have been shown to correlate with improved mood and lower instances of depression.

Another study investigated how cannabis products with varying levels of THC and CBD could reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. It found that 50% of participants experienced a reduction in depression symptoms after using medical cannabis. Strains with high CBD content (over 10%) and low THC (less than 5.5%) appeared to be the most effective in managing depression.

Before deciding whether medicinal cannabis could help reduce your depression symptoms, it’s essential to consult a medical professional. They will evaluate your individual situation and advise on the most appropriate course of action.

Conclusion

While more clinical research is needed to fully understand the benefits of medicinal cannabis for depression, current studies and anecdotal evidence suggest it has potential. Products with higher levels of CBD and lower THC concentrations appear to be the most beneficial for managing depression symptoms at this time.

At Releaf, we believe that access to medical cannabis is crucial for those who need it. That’s why we offer personalised monthly packages based on your cannabis prescription, specialist consultations, and a unique medical cannabis card to ensure you are fully supported in your treatment journey.