Social anxiety is one of the most common anxiety conditions and causes significant impairments in day-to-day life for those who suffer from the disorder. The increased disability, dysfunction, and loss of productivity for those with social anxiety disorder (SAD) is often a daily challenge, especially in social settings.
The pharmacological management of SAD remains problematic. Only about 30% of individuals achieve true recovery or remission without residual symptoms of social anxiety. It has also been found that those who suffer from SAD are more likely to use cannabis than individuals with other anxiety disorders—often as a form of self-medication.
However, the relationship between cannabis and anxiety can be contradictory. Many cannabis users report anxiety reduction as their primary motivation for use. On the other hand, intense anxiety or panic are also among the most common undesirable effects of cannabis. Let’s explore how this is possible.
Understanding the Contradictory Effects of Cannabis
The differing effects of cannabis reflect the components of the plant being consumed—whether smoked, vaporized, or ingested.
THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol): Low doses of THC have relaxing, anti-anxiety effects. However, higher doses are often associated with anxious or paranoid feelings.
CBD (cannabidiol): Another major component of the cannabis plant, CBD has non-psychological effects and is widely studied for its potential therapeutic benefits without the “high.”
What the Research Says About CBD and Social Anxiety
A study was conducted to test the effects of CBD on individuals with SAD, particularly during public speaking.
Study Design:
Participants: 24 individuals with SAD and 12 healthy individuals (control group).
Intervention: 12 individuals with SAD were given 600 mg of CBD, and 12 were given 600 mg of placebo. The 12 healthy participants received no medication.
Activity: All participants were asked to publicly speak, and their state-anxiety level and other subjective responses were evaluated.
Measurements Included: Skin conductance, arterial blood pressure, and heart rate.
Study Results:
Individuals with SAD who received 600 mg of CBD experienced:
Significantly reduced anxiety
Less cognitive impairment
Increased comfort during speech performance
Their responses closely mirrored those of the healthy control group, while individuals who received the placebo showed greater anxiety and discomfort.
Final Thoughts
CBD may offer real benefits to individuals suffering from social anxiety, especially in situations like public speaking. By reducing anxiety symptoms and improving functionality, CBD may help diminish disability, dysfunction, and loss of productivity in everyday life.
🔗 For more on this study, visit: NIH Article on CBD and Social Anxiety
