Managing depression: How cannabis transformed my life

I’ve been grappling with feelings of depression since I was 14. The exact cause is hard to pinpoint. It might have started when my childhood friend of nearly eight years moved away to Sydney.

Or perhaps it began when I developed an unhealthy eating habit, leading to a weight gain of 80 pounds during my second year of high school.

It’s also possible that the roots of my depression trace back to when I was 10 years old and became the target of relentless bullying in the 5th grade, all because of a bad haircut. My classmates would mimic a dog’s howl and point at me, making me feel utterly humiliated.

Perhaps it was a combination of these experiences, but one thing I know for sure is that I’ve been living with clinical depression since I was 14. Now, at 25, it feels like not much has changed… until I discovered the positive effects of cannabis.

I used to have a deep aversion to cannabis and the negative stereotypes often associated with its users.

Related: Exploring the relationship between cannabis and women’s health

It wasn’t until my mother began using cannabis during her cancer treatment that I recognised its significant benefits. Even then, I never considered it could be a solution for depression.

During my mum’s fight against cancer, my family urged me to see a therapist and express my feelings through writing.

But none of it seemed to help.

I’m not saying these methods don’t work for others; I know plenty of people who find comfort in talking to strangers. But for me, it just wasn’t the right fit.

After my mum passed away, I spiralled into a deep emotional crisis. I started drinking everyday, isolated myself from friends, resorted to self-harm, and engaged in other self-destructive behaviours.

Once again, I was pushed into therapy, only to be left disillusioned by the lack of improvement.

After struggling with detrimental habits for a long time, I decided to take on a journey towards self-improvement. I developed a keen interest in fitness, which proved beneficial for a while.

When I moved to London, to pursue my dream of earning a bachelor’s degree, I was optimistic. However, the stress of academic life led to a significant weight gain of nearly 100 pounds over two years, leaving me feeling overwhelmed.

Adding to my distress, I suffered the heartbreaking loss of my father in a tragic car accident, which left me feeling utterly devastated.

I tried medication, but unfortunately, it had negative side effects on my health.

Related: So you want to know what Cannabis is?

Determined to find relief, I gave therapy another try. While it offered some respite, I still struggled with a persistent sense of melancholy.

Seeking alternative solutions, I decided to explore the potential benefits of cannabis for managing my depression. To my surprise, it significantly improved my overall outlook on life.

The weight of my sorrow seemed to lift.

Every evening, I engage in a soothing activity that helps me relax and release the stress of the day, akin to putting a computer into sleep mode.

 

Over the past six months, I’ve noticed positive changes in my behaviour. Although I continue with therapy, I no longer feel the compulsion to revert to unhealthy habits that once accompanied my depressive episodes.

I’m now able to navigate through my days and gradually reconnect with the more joyful and vibrant version of myself that I had been longing for.

I’ve recently re-engaged with my fitness routine and am excited to share that I’ve met an incredible person. Despite the profound loss of my parents, I find comfort in knowing that their legacy has provided me with remarkable opportunities and a life worth living.

I’m not suggesting that cannabis is a cure-all for my problems, but it certainly enhances my enjoyment of life and helps me manage my depression more effectively.

Related: Can weed aid in weight loss?

 

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any THC product.