For many veterans, life after service can include challenges. Physical injuries, mental health struggles, and the difficulty of reintegrating back into mainstream society can create hardship for many. As veterans seek effective ways to address troubling symptoms and mental health concerns, the legalization and reemergence of cannabis as a therapeutic option have become widely explored.

Let’s explore the connection between cannabis and veterans: the challenges they face, the potential benefits of cannabis, and organizations making a difference in this space.

 

What Challenges Do Veterans Face After Service?

After one’s service, transitioning out of the military and back into mainstream society can be difficult. There are plenty of external factors that contribute to the effects or symptoms some veterans will encounter after service – here are a few of the most common health symptoms that induce physical and emotional hurdles for veterans.

 

PTSD & Anxiety

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder affects a significant portion of veterans – the US Department of Veteran Affairs reports that 7 out of every 100 individuals will have PTSD from their time in service.

    • Memory flashbacks
    • Hypervigilance
    • Paranoia
    • Emotional numbness
    • Panic attacks and severe anxiety triggered by certain experiences.

 

Its symptoms can severely impact day-to-day life, relationships, and overall mental health, often making it difficult to engage in routine activities or maintain a sense of stability.

 

Social Reintegration

  • Challenges:
    • Many veterans have difficulty finding a sense of belonging in civilian communities.
    • On top of feelings of PTSD or anxiety, this can also create a sense of isolation and frustration.

 

Chronic Pain

An estimated 28% of veterans will experience some level of chronic pain during or after their service.

  • Serving in the military is a courageous duty, but it can pose a severe risk to the safety of one’s self and body.
  • No matter the severity, many injuries sustained during service can result in chronic pain or long-term conditions that require specific health care and management.

 

Cannabis & Veteran Health

Due to the federally illegal status of the plant, medical cannabis use or possession is prohibited in the US military. However, because cannabis has shown promise as a therapeutic tool for veterans who face health challenges, veteran patients have experienced immense improvement.

In a survey for NORML where 510 veterans participated:

  • 91% reported that medical cannabis treatment helped improve a greater quality of life.
  • 80% of veterans experienced fewer physical symptoms.
  • 46% reported using less substances like alcohol.
  • Or opioids (21%).

 

While reports and studies of the therapeutic efficacy of cannabis continue to grow, the reason why cannabis helps veterans lies in how cannabinoids like THC and CBD interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).

The ECS helps regulate vital functions like mood, pain, and sleep. When cannabinoids from cannabis bind to receptors in the ECS, they can help to balance and regulate these systems.

  • PTSD Relief: In small to moderate doses, cannabis may help reduce anxious intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and hyperarousal symptoms. Together, cannabinoids like THC and CBD provide much-needed calm and focus.
  • CBD’s Anxiety Reduction: Whether it is consumed through inhalation, sublingually, or orally, CBD is known for its calming effects, which can ease anxiety without the psychoactive “high” associated with THC.
  • Pain Management: When bound to receptors in the ECS, THC and CBD can work together to alleviate chronic pain. This can greatly decrease the reliance on traditional pain medications such as opioids.

 

Organizations Supporting Veterans for Cannabis

Several organizations are dedicated to helping veterans access cannabis and advocating for their rights:

  • Veterans Cannabis Project
  • This organization raises awareness about the benefits of cannabis for veterans and advocates for improved access to medical marijuana.
  • Veterans Cannabis Group
  • A California-based group providing resources, education, and support for veterans interested in cannabis as a treatment option.

 

Stem Haverhill Supports Our Troops

At our Haverhill dispensary, we’re proud to provide a wide array of top-quality cannabis products and solutions for all walks of life. If you are new to shopping cannabis in MA, our dispensary in Haverhill is here for you. Visit Stem Haverhill and our knowledgeable budtender staff will help ignite and guide you through your cannabis journey.

With a variety of high-quality cannabis products and a compassionate team, we’re dedicated to helping our heroes find relief. Visit us today to start shopping and discover how cannabis can support your health and well-being.

The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.