With the relaxation of marijuana laws in many states and countries, there’s been a noticeable increase in the use of both recreational and medicinal cannabis. While anxiety and depression stand out as primary reasons women turn to CBD or cannabis products, detailed patterns of use and specific motivations remain underexplored.
Research on THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) indicates distinct pharmacological properties. THC is known for its intoxicating effects and can also induce anxiety and transient psychotomimetic effects, especially at higher doses and in individuals who are susceptible. In contrast, CBD is nonintoxicating, and there is emerging evidence suggesting that CBD may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and antipsychotic properties, potentially mitigating anxiety and psychosis in certain contexts. However, studies indicate that low to moderate cannabis use might be beneficial for some mental health symptoms, but heavy use can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
This was a cross-sectional study of 650 women who reported using cannabis and CBD. The objectives were to evaluate the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of women towards the use of cannabis and CBD products; identify the perceived benefits and risks associated with marijuana and CBD products and explore the expectations and beliefs these women hold regarding the therapeutic potential of marijuana and CBD for specific medical conditions.
Mueller J, Sapp J, Singla D, Cook R, Attonito J, *Cook C, *Villalba K. The Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression Symptoms in Older Women That Substitute Prescription Medications for Marijuana or CBD. Cannabis Clinical Outcomes Research Conference Meeting, Orlando FL, 2023
Mueller J, Sapp J, Singla D, Cook R, Attonito J, *Cook C, *Villalba K. The Association of Marijuana or CBD Use to Mental Health Among Young, Middle Age and Older Women. Cannabis Clinical Outcomes Research Conference Meeting, Orlando FL, 2023
J. Attonito, Cook C, Villalba K. Predictors of Replacing Alcohol with Marijuana Among Older and Younger Adult women. Cannabis Clinical Outcomes Research Conference Meeting, Orlando FL, 2023
Villalba K., Ford J., Cannabis Use and Young Adults in Florida: User Characteristics, Patterns of Use, and Its Implications. Cannabis Clinical Outcomes Research Conference Meeting, Orlando FL, 2022
Villalba K., Sajdeya R., Yancheng Li., Seeger S., Cook C., Mueller M., Ford J., Cook R. Factors Associated with the Perceived Effectiveness of Marijuana for Anxiety Among People Living with HIV. Cannabis Clinical Outcomes Research Conference Meeting, Orlando FL, 2022