Depression
Persistent low mood. NASEM found limited evidence that cannabinoids are INEFFECTIVE for depression in chronic pain and MS.
What the evidence says
NASEM 2017: limited evidence that cannabinoids are ineffective for reducing depressive symptoms in individuals with chronic pain or multiple sclerosis. Substantial evidence associates cannabis use with increased suicidal ideation and attempts.
This one goes in the other direction, and we publish it because omitting it would be dishonest. NASEM placed "reducing depressive symptoms in individuals with chronic pain or multiple sclerosis" in the category of limited evidence that cannabinoids are ineffective.
NASEM separately found moderate evidence that cannabis use is associated with a small increased risk of developing depressive disorders, and substantial evidence of association with increased incidence of suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and suicide completion, with higher incidence among heavier users.
We do not recommend cannabis for depression. If you are struggling, talk to a clinician.
We do not recommend cannabis for this
Rather than suggest a product profile, we are telling you the evidence points the other way. Talk to a clinician about options with better support.
Talk to a doctor if
- • You are having thoughts of harming yourself — contact a crisis line or emergency services
- • Low mood has lasted more than two weeks
- • You have lost interest in things you used to enjoy
Related conditions
- Social anxietyAnxiety in social or performance situations. Limited evidence for CBD specifically — and THC often makes anxiety worse.
- PTSDPost-traumatic stress disorder. Limited evidence resting on a single small trial — and a qualifying condition in many state medical programs regardless.
- Generalised anxietyPersistent anxiety not tied to social situations. Insufficient evidence, and THC can make it worse.