Anecdotal evidence shows that CBD can be an effective treatment of anxiety and depression, particularly in cases where this is mild-moderate. 

CBD has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which is particularly useful for people suffering from generalised anxiety disorders, as well as forms of OCD or PTSD. 

CBD releases dopamine, which impacts feelings of happiness and contentment. This can help people who are suffering with depression or a low moon. Often, in these kinds of cases, CBD is best used alongside other methods such as therapy, mindfulness, exercise and prescribed vitamins. 

Using CBD is also linked to balancing and regulating the stress hormone cortisol, which is responsible for mood swings and feelings of stress if unregulated. This means CBD oils or other forms of CBD can be a great alternative for people who experience fluctuations in their mood, such as those diagnosed with borderline personality disorder or bipolar. 

It is important to note that, while there are many reported mental health benefits of CBD, cannabinoids should never be used to substitute prescribed antidepressant, mood stabilizer or antipsychotic medications unless advised by a GP. 

When it comes to treating depression, CBD has been found to be faster acting than other common antidepressant medications. 

In comparison to antidepressants, CBD has many of the same effects according to anecdotal evidence. For example, it has been found to balance mood, increase energy levels, improve appetite, reduce feelings of stress and anxiety and help with rushing and intrusive thoughts. 

Importantly, CBD should not be considered a replacement for prescribed antidepressants unless a GP or medical professional has advised or been consulted about this. 

CBD edibles and oils have been shown to reduce rushing, scattered thoughts. In some studies, CBD was an effective treatment for people suffering with PTSD and obsessive thought patterns. 

CBD releases dopamine, which can help with feelings of irritability, anxiety and irrationality. 

It also regulates the body’s production and release of cortisol – the stress hormone. When this hormone spikes, it can cause bouts of stress and irrational thinking patterns. CBD helps to keep the bodily flow of cortisol regular, which results in these patterns being minimized.

CBD has been shown to instil a sense of calm in people who regularly take it, which in turn may result in lower stress levels with prolonged use. 

CBD regulates many of the human body’s natural stress hormones, meaning it leads to a more stable and calmer mood day-to-day. 

If using CBD to reduce stress, it is best to take CBD in smaller amounts throughout the day. If you have a specific event or life situation that is making you feel more stressed at specific times, then you can alter your dosage accordingly. 

CBD should always be used to supplement other mental health treatments, including talk therapy, CBT, exercise, meditation and mindfulness. If you are seriously struggling with managing stress it is best to talk to a doctor or medical professional. 

If taking CBD to improve your mood, we recommend taking doses of between 10 and 15mg of CBD – either as an oil under the tongue or in edible form – twice daily. This can be done with or without meals. 

If you are planning on using CBD to help with sleep, take a larger dose (between 20 and 30mg) 20 minutes before bedtime.