OCD
Medical cannabis can help manage the compulsions and intrusive thoughts associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that causes obsessive thought loops and compulsive behaviours. It can be present in both adults and children, and can be either mild and manageable, or severe and debilitating. Around 750,000 people in the UK are thought to live with OCD that impacts their daily activities and overall wellbeing.
Symptoms
OCD can cause obsessive, unpleasant thoughts or disturbing mental images. People with this condition may feel the need to complete an action or series of actions to temporarily escape these thoughts.
Treatments
Treatments for OCD aim to reduce the severity of obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions. These might include talking therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to face fears and disturbing thoughts, or medications like antidepressants which can ease obsessive symptoms. Research highlights anecdotal evidence that points to medical cannabis having positive impacts on people with severe OCD and associated depression.
60%
A 2021 study found that cannabis treatments reduced the severity of compulsions in participants by 60%
49%
The same 2021 study found that cannabis treatments reduced the severity of intrusive thoughts in participants by 49%
29%
A 2021 survey of 601 people with OCD using cannabis found 29% did so specifically to manage OCD symptoms
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Word from our expert
Dr Sunil Arora Chief Medical Officer
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be a challenging condition to manage, often affecting daily life with persistent intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors.
Overactive CB1 receptors may make it more difficult for people with OCD to break cycles of compulsive behavior. Medical cannabis may offer relief by helping to reduce anxiety and stress, which are commonly associated with OCD.
In our experience, cannabis can support emotional well-being and provide a natural alternative to conventional treatments, helping patients better manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life
At Emerald, our team of experts can help you explore medical cannabis treatments for OCD that work for you, providing you with a safe, natural option to restore balance in your life.
