Here at Green Goods, we’re profoundly grateful to the roughly 19 million Americans who’ve served in the armed forces. But mixed with our gratitude is an acknowledgment of a difficult truth: That for many of them, the adjustment back to civilian life can be challenging. More than most of us, vets struggle with chronic mental and physical health concerns during and after their service.
In keeping with our commitment to honor vets every day, not just on Veterans Day, we want to highlight some of the ways the worlds of veterans and cannabis intersect. Because as acceptance of this all-natural plant medicine grows, it’s helping a great many veterans find gentle and sustainable relief from PTSD, chronic pain, and a host of other symptoms and conditions.
Tackling the Challenge of PTSD
PTSD—short for post-traumatic stress disorder—is hardly limited to veterans. But while PTSD affects roughly 6% of the general population at any one time, it’s much more likely to affect veterans. According to some studies, as many as 20 – 30% of veterans may have PTSD. Its symptoms range from anxiety and insomnia to potentially debilitating hyper-vigilance. Tragically, veterans are statistically more likely to end their own lives than other members of the population.
A number of clinical studies have focused on the cannabis plant’s potential in treating PTSD, and what they suggest is promising. One study from 2020 found that cannabis may offer short-term relief from severe symptoms of PTSD. Another found that cannabis may reduce the severe depression and suicidal ideation often associated with PTSD.
One of the reasons cannabis may help us manage PTSD is through its effect on memory. One hallmark of the disorder is the sense that patients are reliving their traumatic memories again and again. One PTSD study found that cannabinoids such as THC and CBD help restore healthy memory function by stimulating the endocannabinoid system, one of the body’s chief regulatory networks.
We’re heartened by the increasing acceptance of medical cannabis as a response to PTSD. As one recent study found, in twelve states, PTSD was the third most common condition reported by those seeking medical cannabis cards.
Veterans and Cannabis: Replacing Dependence on Opioids and Other Pain Medications
Because veterans are statistically more likely to rely on opioids than other populations, reducing their dependence upon these objectively harmful drugs is a top concern. Once again, cannabis shows promise here. One independent study showed that the use of medical cannabis may lead to significant reductions in opioid abuse. Data from Colorado and other states indicate that this approach is already having an effect, reducing overdoses and saving lives.
Whether it’s used to tame chronic pain, quell anxiety, or address concerns about sleep quality and general quality of life, we believe medical cannabis offers promise, not just for veterans, but for anyone who suffers from these potentially serious symptoms and conditions.
A Special “Thank You” to Those Who Serve
With the increasing focus on the issues facing veterans, we look forward to furthering clinical studies that examine the beneficial effects of cannabis on PTSD. And in the meantime, we’re dedicated to making it as simple and affordable as possible for veterans seeking medical cannabis to get access to it. That’s why we’re proud to extend a special discount to all active duty and military veterans. Simply present your veterans or military ID card at any Green Goods dispensary and we’d be happy to thank you for your service.
Do you have further questions about how medical cannabis might help address the symptoms of PTSD and other chronic symptoms? We’re here to help; reach out anytime!
Please note that qualifying conditions vary by state, and the information relating to qualifying conditions may not apply to cannabis patients in all states.
Product availability also varies based on state program restrictions and rules, so the products discussed may not be available in all states. Be sure to check with your local Green Goods location about the products available in your state!
