The winter solstice may be behind us, but the days will still be short for some time. For many, the extended darkness brings feelings of tiredness, dread, and even depression, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder. Find out why you might consider using CBD for SAD.
What exactly is SAD?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) impacts roughly 5% of U.S. adults for up to 40% of the year. More than just the winter blues, It is a form of depression that comes on seasonally, with symptoms including:
- Feelings of sadness.
- Sleeping more.
- Increase in fatigue despite the increase in sleep.
- Change in appetite, most often overeating. (Hello, carbs!)
- Losing interest in favorite past times and hobbies.
- Lack of focus. Difficulty concentrating.
What can you do if you experience SAD?
Main therapies used to help symptoms of SAD include:
- Light therapy (phototherapy) involves sitting near a special lightbox for a period of time each day. The light appears to work similarly to natural light outdoors and impacts mood.
- Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy. Offers the opportunity to explore your feelings and emotions and to find healthy ways to cope.
- Medications, including antidepressants, may be prescribed in more severe cases.
As more people look for more natural ways to treat their conditions, they are turning to CBD for Seasonal Affective Disorder.
What is CBD and the Endocannabinoid System?
The Endocannabinoid System, otherwise known as ECS, is a regulatory system in our body whose primary function is to keep the body in balance or homeostasis. The ECS regulates our mood, sleep, appetite, memory, and more. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound extracted from the hemp plant. When ingested or used topically, it works in concert with the ECS to help maintain balance.
Can CBD help Seasonal Affective Disorder?
CBD has been shown to alter serotonin levels in your brain. This will help to regulate your emotions and your mood.
Additionally, CBD shows promise for anxiety. A review published in 2015 covered 49 studies with evidence that strongly supported CBD as a treatment for a variety of anxiety-related disorders including generalized anxiety, panic, PTSD, and more. While one of the largest case studies completed in 2019 showed that 79.2% of patients given CBD as part of their outpatient treatment experienced an improvement in their anxiety.
Lastly, CBD is a great option to support a great night’s sleep, both duration and quality.
All of these show promise when considering using CBD for SAD.
Tips for using CBD for SAD
Understand where your products come from. CBD products are largely unregulated. It’s important to buy from a company that invests in 3rd party lab testing so you receive the amount of CBD it claims to have and is made from high-quality ingredients.
Always begin with a lower dosage. How much CBD to take depends on a variety of factors including weight, the severity of the condition, metabolism, and more. It’s best to start low and increase as needed.
Use it consistently. CBD is most effective when you use it on a regular basis. Don’t just take it when you are struggling. Many people stop when they feel better, only to go right back to where they started.
Choose the right CBD product. There also are many different formulations varying from just CBD to those formulated with other terpenes or cannabinoids focused on a more specific need, for example, pain or sleep. An ingestible product like oils or gummies will be the best fit, whereas a topical product is not a good fit for SAD.
Three of our Allvane products CBD products you may be interested in:
- Everyday Formula CBD Oil supports balance and well-being. Made with CBD and coconut oil.
- CBD Gummies provide a sense of calm. Organic and vegan, they offer a tasty alternative to oil.
- Unwind Formula CBD Oil aids in a good night’s sleep.
Feel free to reach out to us with questions about finding the best CBD for Seasonal Affective Disorder. We love to help!