Can CBD Help With Seasonal Depression? If So, How to Use?
Feeling a little blue and down in the dumps? Does the onset of winter have you reaching for the tissues and feeling like you’re trapped in a never-ending Hallmark movie?
Well, CBD might just be the answer to all of your seasonal depression woes.
What Is Seasonal Depression?
Let me help you understand what seasonal depression actually is. Also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), this is a type of depression that typically occurs during the winter months when daylight hours are shorter.
Symptoms can include fatigue, feelings of sadness or hopelessness, changes in appetite or weight, and difficulty sleeping.
How can CBD help?
Now that we’ve established what seasonal depression is, let’s dive into how CBD can help. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in the cannabis plant.
Unlike its cousin THC, CBD won’t get you high, but it has been found to have a variety of potential health benefits. Here are a few ways that CBD may help with seasonal depression:
Boosting serotonin levels
One of the main ways that CBD may help with seasonal depression is by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating mood, and low levels of serotonin have been linked to depression.
CBD has been found to interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, potentially increasing the amount of serotonin available.
Reducing inflammation
Inflammation has been linked to a variety of health issues, including depression. CBD has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and potentially alleviate symptoms of depression.
Promoting relaxation and sleep
CBD has also been found to have relaxing and sedative effects, which could be beneficial for those struggling with seasonal depression. Getting enough sleep is important for overall health, and CBD may help promote restful sleep.
Read: Does CBD Help With Cold?
What does the research say?
While more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of CBD for seasonal depression, there have been some promising studies.
One study published in the journal Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry found that CBD was able to increase serotonin levels in rats, potentially providing a new treatment option for depression.
Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that CBD was effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety in patients with social anxiety disorder.
How to use CBD for seasonal depression
If you’re interested in trying CBD for seasonal depression, there are a few things to keep in mind. Talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement or medication. CBD can interact with some medications, so it’s important to make sure it’s safe for you to use.
Once you’ve gotten the green light from your doctor, there are a few ways to use CBD. Some people prefer to use CBD oil, which can be taken orally or added to food or drinks.
Others prefer to use CBD gummies, which are a tasty and convenient way to get your daily dose of CBD. Just be sure to follow the dosing instructions carefully and start with a low dose.
Read: Can CBD Help Gallbladder Pain?
Final thoughts
While CBD may not be a cure-all for seasonal depression, it’s worth considering as a potential treatment option.
CBD could be a useful tool in your depression-fighting arsenal. So why not give it a try and see if it works for you? Yet, be sure to talk to your doctor first!
- Can CBD Help With Seasonal Depression? If So, How to Use? - February 27, 2023
- Can CBD Help Gallbladder Pain? What Research Says? - February 19, 2023
- What Is CBD And What Is it Used For? Does CBD Work? - February 16, 2023
