Rethinking Medical Cannabis: Medicine vs. The High
The Plant and the Pedestal
Let me start by saying: I believe cannabis should be legal. It doesn't make sense to have a substance as detrimental as alcohol be legal while a plant that typically makes people hungry and giggly remains restricted. However, "natural" does not always mean "for everyone."
While some report reduced anxiety, others experience increased paranoia or even psychosis. Recently, I heard a case of a user whose dependency inhibited their personal growth; the more they used, the less inclined they were to challenge themselves. They hit a plateau because the substance was stunting their ability to evolve.
Where did the medicine go?
My concern with the modern medical cannabis movement is the THC content—the psychoactive component that makes you feel "high."
In the 1960s: THC levels were around 4%.
Today: Levels average 15-20%, reaching as high as 25%.
As we changed the plant to reflect our want for a stronger "high," we left out the CBD—the primary medicinal cannabinoid that actually reduces inflammation, chronic pain, and insomnia. For mental health specifically, I would love to see a shift toward higher CBD and lower THC. How can we call it truly "medicinal" if it carries so little of the actual medicine?
THC and the Trauma Brain
Currently, PTSD is the primary mental health diagnosis for a medical card. While users report fewer nightmares, they also report ongoing "numbness." High levels of THC can actually inhibit healing for those with PTSD.
THC affects the orbitofrontal cortex and the limbic system—the exact areas we target during EMDR Therapy. To ensure the mind is clear for processing, I advise my clients to stop THC use at least 24 hours before our sessions. If you are seeking help for anxiety, I urge you to look at CBD instead; it is legal, easily attained in Ohio, and lacks the "numbing" effect that prevents us from truly facing and releasing our pain.
Facing the Emotion vs. Numbing It
At times, I have personally use CBD for high anxiety or sleep with no side effects. When I used THC in the past, it only created more anxiety for me. I realized I didn’t want to numb my feelings anymore; I wanted to face them.
Instead of reaching for a substance, try this visualization: Imagine burying a negative emotion in the earth. Watch it bud and grow into a plant. You can sit and notice that plant (the emotion) without being a part of it. You can walk away when you’re ready, or return to notice it later.
This is true coping. Know the medicine you choose to fuel your body.
About the Author
Sarah Lacy, LPCC is an EMDR Specialist and Life Coach based in Rocky River, Ohio. She provides in-person support to the Lakewood, Westlake, and Bay Village communities, as well as Telehealth sessions throughout the state.
If these words resonate with you, reach out to take the next step in your healing journey.
