The world of mental health treatment is experiencing a revolution with new research and funding on the role of cannabis. As more discoveries are being made about the cannabis receptors in the human body and their impact on mental health, clinicians are urged to use their ethical judgment and clinical assessment to evaluate potential risks and benefits.
Cannabis Terminology
- CBD - A component in hemp that is separated from THC, the compound that produces a psychoactive effect in users. CBD is typically sold in gels, tinctures, or lotions and has a calming effect on users.
- THC - The main psychoactive compound in hemp that produces a "high."
- Sativa - This plant is thought to have a more active effect on a person. Sativa often produces a stress-reducing effect without making a person feel tired.
- Indica - This plant is thought to have a more subdued effect and can be intensely relaxing for the user.
- Hybrids - Plants that combine these types or create new strains of cannabis plants.
Endocannabinoid System and Receptors in the Human Body
The endocannabinoid system, the largest group of neurotransmitters in the human body, helps maintain homeostasis by regulating biological systems in response to internal and external stimulus, such as responding to threats.
The CB1 receptor relates to the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord, while the CB2 receptor relates to the peripheral nervous system, which includes the muscles, skin, immune support, and organ structures.
The molecules that make up THC can react differently across people, and plants can have hundreds and thousands of subtypes with unknown compositions. It is difficult for clinicians and researchers to understand how the endocannabinoid system varies from one person to the next.
Mental Health and Cannabis
Endocannabinoids can help maintain and regulate homeostasis in the body, which is crucial since dysfunction in this area can impact mental health. Theoretically, dysfunctions such as toxic stress, somatic symptoms, and anxiety may be eased by using cannabis.
Communication between endocannabinoids and the peripheral nervous system is relevant for mental health practitioners and researchers. A dysregulated nervous system can cause symptoms such as low mood, poor sleep, and stress and can affect cognitive skills such as attention and memory.
What Social Workers Should Know
Cannabis is not often used in social work care, but it is an interesting and exciting branch of research that is being developed.
To fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using cannabis in mental health treatment, further research is required. While it has potential therapeutic benefits, there are also associated risks, as there are with any drug.
The legal status of cannabis at the federal and state levels is constantly changing, making it crucial for social workers and other practitioners to stay up to date on the latest research and policies to provide the best care for clients.
Resources
Learn more about the connection between the endocannabinoid system and mental health through the Continued Social Work course Integration of Cannabis and Mental Health
References
Dresden, D. (2020, February 6). What’s the difference between indica and sativa? Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/indica-vs-sativa
