Written by: Dr. Erika Montgomery, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
So often I hear people talk about how stressed out they are and how overwhelmed they feel managing the stressors of everyday life. Stress by definition is anything that challenges our homeostasis. Homeostasis is our body’s self-regulating process that maintains our biological stability while adapting to external conditions. Homeostasis is optimal for survival. Signs of chronic stress might include headaches, fatigue, excessive worry, negativity, irritability, and insomnia.
Chronic stress increases the risk of physical disease and mental health problems by weakening our immune system and our body's natural response to stress. The ECS (Endogenous Cannabinoid System or Endocannabinoid System) within us efficiently regulates our body’s response to stress. Changes occur within the ECS under conditions of acute and chronic stress. CBD (short for Cannabidiol) is an active chemical compound produced by the cannabis plant that has been found to reduce stress. The significant benefits of CBD are evident within current research and in testimonials.
The use of hemp and cannabis plant extracts dates back to 3000 BC, with Chinese literature describing it as being useful for pain. Additionally, hemp was cultivated in England in the 19th century and colonists brought hemp with them when they settled in America. Since the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, the US government has supported funding for research to better understand and document the benefits of CBD; rendering it legal in all 50 states.
According to the Journal of Cannabis Research, a systematic review in 2020 on the role of CBD in mental health, analyzed 23 studies and found that CBD and CBD-containing compounds were helpful in alleviating psychiatric symptoms and cognitive impairment in patients with a variety of conditions. CBD was moderately recommended to relieve symptoms of social anxiety, autism spectrum, and attention deficit hyperactivity.
Educating my patients on the difference between hemp and marijuana has been very important due to the abundance of misinformation and people just not understanding the distinction. Hemp and marijuana are 2 different sisters of the cannabis plant. One of the major differences between hemp and marijuana is that hemp has large concentrations of CBD and low concentrations of THC, and by definition contains less than .3% THC. As a result, CBD is not “psychoactive” and does not give you the “euphoric” feeling that is commonly associated with THC (marijuana use). The methods of CBD use include tincture drops that are placed underneath the tongue and swallowed, gummies that are eaten, and vape pens that heat the CBD oil and are inhaled to provide the quickest delivery system; especially beneficial for use with panic attacks and acute stress.
For the past 3 years, I have benefited from the daily use of CBD. CBD has helped me reduce my stress levels, particularly in my work as a Psychologist with the rising mental health needs of our country throughout the COVID pandemic. CBD provides me calmness, internal balance, and increased focus so that I can provide mental health support to others. In my daily life with the demands of work, home, family, parenting, finances, and health, CBD supports my feeling of well-being.
I am a strong advocate of the daily use of CBD for overall health, similar to taking vitamins or supplements. The consistent testimonies of clients benefitting from CBD are evidence. Many of my patients use CBD daily to target symptoms of anxiety, loss of focus, insomnia, and pain. In addition to the daily use of CBD, other strategies I use to reduce stress include daily meditation, deep breathing techniques, prayer, inspirational messages, daily affirmations, making lists to organize tasks, movement, feel-good music, social outlets, journaling, and anything activity that calms or restores my energy. I recommend the daily use of CBD to reduce stress and I encourage you to learn more at www.hemphappier.com.
Peace Be Within
FDA Disclosure: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The products mentioned are not for use by or sale to persons under the age of 18. Consult with a physician before use if you have a serious medical condition or use prescription medications. Do not use products if you are pregnant or nursing. Products should only be used as directed on the label. This article is not offering medical advice.
Dr. Erika Montgomery, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Dr. Erika Montgomery is a Clinical Psychologist and Life Coach with 25 years of experience providing mental health treatment. Dr. Montgomery owns an online CBD dispensary with Wakanna, a Female Black-Owned CBD Company, and advocates for the daily use of CBD for mental and physical health. Dr. Montgomery is a Mental Health consultant with the Social Security Administration for the past 11 years. Dr. Montgomery hosts a weekly podcast called, "Master Your Mind with Dr. Erika," on the Law of Attraction Radio Network. Dr. Montgomery believes every human is worthy of unconditional love and has the power within to change. My motto: "Mental Health Is Human Health."
