If you’ve heard of CBD for depression you might be wondering when that is appropriate. The winter season can be tough to get through. Depending on where you’re located, it can start with the weather and even end there. Those living in the colder parts of the world experience the beauty and inconvenience of snow. For others, it goes well beyond the glory of the holidays and where they have to prepare for the emotional change that rolls in with the weather. While the majority of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) takes place during cold times, there are individuals who may experience this during the spring and summer as well.
What is SAD and how can CBD for depression help?
SAD usually begins and ends around the same time every year — fall — and can continue into spring. A few things happen when the season gets colder, but more specifically when the sun starts to leave us earlier in the day. When we get less sun, it causes chemical imbalances that happen in the brain. One of those chemicals is Serotonin, which is responsible for maintaining our mood. This means it might be more difficult for you to feel more motivated and you may even dread the holidays more than look forward to them. Some symptoms you may experience are anxiety, loss of interest in activities, social withdrawal, oversleeping, gaining or losing weight, sadness, and irritability. The list goes on and may look different for everyone but there are ways to combat these symptoms, cannabis being one of them and extremely effective.
The flower and cannabinoids to look for that may help you go about a normal, daily, routine will differ for everyone and depends on what you’re trying to combat. CBD for depression works for a lot of people as a standalone, but others may desire an additional cannabinoid to enhance the benefits. If you’re someone who is looking for help with anxiety, CBD (Cannabidiol) and CBG (Cannabigerol) are a great start. With both of these cannabinoids, you receive anxiety and stress relief, and relief from any inflammation. While used for these two cannabinoids can be recommended for daytime use, I find CBD is more relaxing while CBG gives you a little pep in your step for the day! If you prefer to consume by smoking flower, stay clear of sativa strains, as these can cause paranoia/anxiety if you’re prone.
Which CBD products help with SAD?
Be sure to stop by The Other Path to grab some Wyld Pear CBG Gummies or an Uplift Tincture from Bluebird. They also have great CBD flower! There are many options to look for when you’re battling a lack of sleep. Your best friend will be CBN (Cannabigerol). This is a component of the plant that helps promote sleep and relaxation. If this is present in your product, refrain from driving. If you’re a flower smoking, look for heavy indica strains. This will include the infamous OG’s that are great for relaxation. The Higher Path has a great selection including, Skywalker OG, Alien OG, and even King Louie.
If you’re feeling unmotivated, unfocused, or can’t find it in you to be social, THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) and sativa strains have your name on them. This cannabinoid has great energy and focus-boosting properties. If you find that the cold season brings binge-eating more than usual, it’s also known as the “diet weed”, it’s known to curve your munchies! For flower lovers, strains like Jack Herer and Greek Crack will be great for energy. Look for strains like “Diamond Ring” from The Higher Path or “Create” from Canndescent for a great social smoke for you and your friends!
Alternatives to cannabis:
- Get as much sunlight as you can when it is possible.
- Get your rest but don’t oversleep. With the sun leaving you early, it throws off your circadian rhythm. Find a time that works for you to get to bed and wake up and stick to those times.
- Eat a balanced diet. Diet plays a huge role in your mental and physical state. Stay away from sugar as much as you can, processed food, and alcohol. Be sure to stay hydrated!
- Light therapy. You can find many light therapy products online for your home!
If you’d like more information on how CBD can help you with your seasonal depression, be sure to stop by and talk to one of our knowledgeable staff members! You can even have our products delivered right to your home via our pickup website.