Post-traumatic stress disorder is very common among veterans. More than 20 % of the veterans who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan are suffering from PTSD. According to the Veterans Association, in 2017 alone veteran deaths by suicide were at an average of 20 per day. It is very difficult for veterans who suffer from PTSD and other mental disorders to cope with regular life.
Most often the veterans with PTSD get addicted to drugs and most of the deaths are caused by the over-prescription of the medications that are prescribed for the treatment of injuries sustained in the war. Apart from PTSD, these veterans also suffer from combat-related chronic pain.
Studies have shown that CBD is very beneficial in alleviating post-traumatic stress disorder in veterans. A recent study showed that CBD could easily reduce pain, inflammation, and improve your mood. This is great news for veterans as most of them are suffering from anxiety disorders and chronic pain.
CBD For PTSD In Veterans
A study in 2011 looked at the effects of CBD in reducing anxiety. it was found that taking a single dose of CBD can help in reducing anxiety levels significantly. However, most studies have looked at the effects of CBD in subjects where stress is caused before the administration of CBD. That means CBD is an effective treatment for those who get anxious from social situations, random moments, etc.
Veterans who have PTSD often relive the traumatic experiences they had during their tour. Therefore, the use of CBD can help in alleviating anxiety when they experience a traumatic incident once again. When you use CBD, it interacts with some of the receptors in the brain that are associated with the production of the stress hormone cortisol.
Veterans, combat soldiers, accident survivors, etc. can use CBD within a couple of hours of their traumatic experience and this can help reduce the adverse effects of the disorder significantly. It is important to note that CBD is not a complete cure for PTSD, but it is very helpful in managing the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
Final Thoughts
Even though the clinical studies are very little on the effect of CBD on PTSD, many anecdotal records from CBD users are showing that it is very helpful in alleviating the symptoms of anxiety disorders. People with PTSD and other anxiety disorders often find it difficult to sleep at night. The use of CBD can also help in improving their sleep quality and duration.