Does Cannabis Use Help or Worsen Anxiety?

Anxiety affects millions of people worldwide, and many seek relief through various methods, including cannabis use. Yet, the connection between marijuana and anxiety remains unclear. Some users report calm and relaxation, while others experience heightened nervousness or even can trigger panic attacks. This blog post explores the complex relationship between cannabis use and anxiety, examining whether cannabis helps ease anxiety symptoms or if it might worsen them. We will also consider if anxiety drives people to use cannabis as a form of self-medication.

Cannabis leaf on wooden table symbolizing the link between marijuana and anxiety

Mixed Results in Research on Cannabis and Anxiety

Scientific studies on cannabis and anxiety have produced mixed findings. Some research suggests cannabis can reduce anxiety symptoms, while other studies indicate it may increase anxiety or trigger panic attacks.

• Cannabis as an anxiolytic: Certain compounds in cannabis, especially cannabidiol (CBD), have shown promise in reducing anxiety in some clinical trials. CBD interacts with the brain’s serotonin receptors, which play a role in mood regulation. For example, a 2019 review published in Frontiers in Immunology found CBD could reduce anxiety in both animal and human studies.

• THC and anxiety: Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis, has a more complicated relationship with anxiety. Low doses of THC may reduce anxiety, but higher doses often increase it. A 2020 study in JAMA Psychiatry reported that heavy cannabis users with high THC exposure were more likely to experience anxiety disorders.

  
  

• Individual differences: Genetics, tolerance, cannabis strain, and method of consumption all influence how cannabis affects anxiety. For some, cannabis provides relief; for others, it can worsen symptoms.

  
  

Does Cannabis Cause Anxiety or Do Anxious People Use Cannabis?

Motivation to use marijuana and other substances is sometimes to avoid negative feelings (i.e., anger, sadness, stress, fear) and to help manage distressing emotions. One key question we can ask is whether cannabis use leads to anxiety or if people with anxiety turn to cannabis for relief.

• Self-medication hypothesis: Many individuals with anxiety disorders report using cannabis to manage their symptoms. A 2021 survey by the National Institute on Drug Abuse found that about 40% of cannabis users cited anxiety relief as a reason for use. This suggests anxiety may drive cannabis consumption rather than cannabis causing anxiety outright.

  
  

• Cannabis-induced anxiety: On the other hand, some users develop anxiety symptoms after cannabis use, especially with high-THC products. This can include panic attacks, paranoia, and increased heart rate. These effects may discourage continued use or lead to avoidance.

  
  

• Bidirectional relationship: Evidence points to a two-way relationship. Anxiety may lead to cannabis use, and cannabis use may sometimes increase anxiety, creating a cycle that can be difficult to break.

  
  

Expert Opinions on Cannabis and Anxiety

The fact remains that we need more rigorous clinical trials to understand how different cannabinoids affect anxiety. Cannabis is not a one size fits all solution. Experts in psychiatry and addiction medicine emphasize the need for caution and personalized approaches.

Personal Stories Highlight the Complexity

Hearing from individuals who use cannabis for anxiety reveals a wide range of experiences.

• Anna’s story: Anna, uses low-dose CBD oil daily and reports significant relief from social anxiety. She says, “It helps me feel calm without making me feel ‘high’ or paranoid.”

  
  

• Mark’s experience: "It COMPLETELY makes my anxiety worse. I get extremely paranoid and feel like I'm acting weird"

  
  

• Jasmine’s journey: "My ex used to smoke to relieve anxiety. It worked in the short term but made it so much worse long term"

  
  

These stories show how cannabis effects vary widely and why personalized approaches matter.

Anxiety

Anxiety can be OVERWHELMING and difficult to get a handle on. Use a publicly available, research supported brief self-report measure such as the GAD-7 to see how your anxiety affects you. If you score high on anxiety, or if anxiety makes life difficult - consider seeking support from a trusted friend, or a certified counselor or educate yourself. There are many resources that are proven to be effective at lowering anxiety experience and making life feel more manageable again.

Marijuana

If you are thinking about using cannabis to manage anxiety, consider these points:

• Cannabis Dependence does exist, and cannabis use can have a negative effect on your relationships, memory and ability to engage in daily activities such as driving or caring for children.

• Monitor your reactions carefully and stop if anxiety worsens.

• Consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have a history of mental health issues.

• There are many other helpful tools which can help lower anxiety. Consider making a broader anxiety management plan, including therapy, exercise, and healthy lifestyle habits.

  
  

The Need for More Research and Awareness

The relationship between cannabis and anxiety is complex and not fully understood. More high-quality research is needed to clarify:

• How different cannabinoids affect anxiety symptoms.

• The relationship between trauma, cannabis and anxiety interact with each other.

• Long-term effects of cannabis use on mental health.

• Which individuals are most likely to benefit or be harmed.

• Effective dosing and product formulations for anxiety relief.

  
  

Greater public awareness and education can help users make informed decisions and reduce risks.