A recent study suggests that marijuana’s impact on sleep may differ depending on an individual’s mental health background.
The study, conducted by the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine, revealed that marijuana enhanced sleep for young adults with anxiety or depression. In contrast, those without any pre-existing mental health issues experienced more frequent sleep issues when using marijuana.
The study analyzed data from the university’s Happiness and Health Survey, which tracked the health, emotional well-being, and substance use habits of 3,300 Los Angeles public high school students from 2013 to 2023.
Researchers compared sleep issues in individuals who used marijuana frequently (at least 20 times every month) with those who had never used it. Marijuana use corresponded to an average 1.18-point reduction in sleep problems for those experiencing anxiety or depression. In contrast, participants without anxiety or depression saw their sleep problems increase by an average of 1.66 points when using cannabis compared to non-users.
While the authors said they were unsure why marijuana affects individuals with depression or anxiety differently, they speculated that it’s because THC could temporarily suppress symptoms of depression or anxiety, which symptoms can negatively impact sleep. However, they cautioned that using marijuana this way doesn’t necessarily address the root of these mental health conditions.
Peter Grinspoon, a Harvard Medical School lecturer and physician, offered additional insight noting that marijuana affects the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in sleep regulation. While scientists have yet to fully understand how marijuana interacts with this system to influence sleep, Grinspoon pointed out that people with pre-existing mental health issues like depression and anxiety may benefit more from marijuana for sleep because they often suffer from insomnia.
The study did not, however, examine marijuana dose or consumption method, which Grinspoon believes are crucial factors. He explained that individuals aiming to use marijuana as a sleep aid often opt for lower doses, as higher doses can be stimulating rather than sedating. He also suggested that some of the existing research may be skewed, as much of it was conducted with a focus on potential harms rather than benefits due to historical biases in marijuana research.
Using cannabis for sleep is not without risks. Like most sleep aids, marijuana can lead to dependence, and individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop its use. Additionally, researchers warn that marijuana use might reduce time spent in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, leading to fewer dreams.
As more studies are conducted on which particular people are more likely to benefit from medical marijuana for different symptoms, enterprises like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) are likely to tweak their products in order to address the specific needs of their customers.
About CNW420
CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.
To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)
For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com
Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer
CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com
CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN
