MEDICAL MARIJUANA
PTSD Vs Anxiety
While PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and anxiety share some overlapping symptoms, they are distinct mental health conditions with different triggers and diagnostic criteria.
Understanding their differences is key to choosing the right treatment, including the use of medical marijuana.
PTSD
PTSD arises from exposure to a traumatic event such as combat, abuse, or accidents. It is characterized by recurring intrusive memories, nightmares, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness.
People with PTSD often experience flashbacks and heightened responses to triggers that remind them of the trauma.
The condition disrupts sleep, mood, and daily functioning, requiring targeted treatment that addresses both physical and emotional symptoms.
Anxiety
Anxiety, on the other hand, is a broad term encompassing disorders like generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety.
It manifests as excessive worry, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms such as a racing heart or muscle tension.
Unlike PTSD, anxiety does not necessarily stem from a specific trauma and may be influenced by genetics, brain chemistry, or environmental factors.
Treatment often focuses on calming the mind and body to manage chronic worry and physical stress responses.
By recognizing these differences, patients and healthcare providers can better tailor treatment approaches, including selecting cannabis strains that address the specific symptoms of PTSD or anxiety.
