May 21, 2025 11:00 AM

Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental Health Awareness Month serves a reminder that emotional well-being is just as important as physical health. In recent years, more people have begun speaking openly about mental health, and that shift has also brought new conversations about the various tools, therapies, and approaches, including medical cannabis, that can play a supportive role.

From easing everyday stress to helping manage the lingering effects of trauma, cannabis is gaining recognition as one piece of a thoughtful, whole-person approach to wellness. And today, a growing variety of formulations – like balanced THC:CBD ratios, full-spectrum options, and even infused beverages – are making it easier for patients to explore what works best for their own mental health journey.

The Emotional Dimension of Pain

For Dr. Terel Newton, Medical Director at Trulieve, the conversation around mental health is both professional and personal. “Mental health holds a profound significance in my life,” he shares, “shaped by my family’s dedication to caregiving, comprising nurses, teachers, and mental health professionals.” Part of that understanding comes from recognizing how deeply connected our physical and emotional experiences are.

“During my training,” Dr. Newton says, “I came to appreciate that pain is not solely a physical sensation but also an emotional experience.” Science backs this up. The endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate mood, stress response, and emotional balance, is now seen as a key player in how we experience both physical and emotional pain. Cannabis interacts with this system – especially CB1 receptors in the brain – which may help bring a sense of calm and stability during emotionally difficult times.

Cannabis Use & Everyday Wellness

For many people, using cannabis for mental health is not just about managing symptoms from diagnosed conditions, it’s also a way to create more space for calm in the everyday. Patients often describe using small amounts, or microdoses, to help ease into a more relaxed evening or to bring a gentle lift to practices like journaling, yoga, or meditation.

So, in general, does cannabis help with mental health? Here's what real cannabis users said. In a recent sampling program of Trulieve patients, participants reported meaningful impacts on how they felt emotionally. Among the most common responses:

62% said they felt more relaxed
54% experienced stress relief
41% reported a reduction in anxiety
32% described a sense of euphoria

With more balanced and beginner-friendly formulations available today, it’s becoming easier for people to find gentle support for mental wellness without feeling overpowered.

The Plant's Impact on Many Facets of Mental Health

So, how exactly might cannabis support mental health? Mental wellbeing is deeply personal, shaped by our unique experiences, backgrounds, and needs. As interest in plant-based options grows, cannabis is being explored for its potential to support a wide spectrum of mental health concerns—from anxiety and stress to trauma-related symptoms and sleep challenges.

Stress & Anxiety

Science helps us understand that cannabis works with the ECS to help modulate our response to stress. By activating CB1 receptors, it may influence how we process fear and cope with pressure. Research has shown that a well-functioning ECS can help foster greater emotional resilience¹.

PTSD Relief

Many individuals living with PTSD, especially veterans, have turned to medical cannabis for relief. Its use has popular support among patients for a variety of anxiety-related issues and those experiencing trouble sleeping. One study found that a significant number of patients using cannabis for PTSD reported meaningful improvements in symptoms associated with sleep².

Formulations for Calm & Clarity

Two 2019 studies reported that individuals using CBD experienced notable reductions in anxiety³ and improvements in rest⁴. Due to CBD's potential to moderate the psychoactive effects of THC, products with varying ratios of both cannabinoids are commonly known to create a more balanced and comfortable experience for many patients.

Sleep & Recovery

Sleep is a cornerstone of mental health, yet trauma and chronic stress can significantly disrupt it. Some research suggests that cannabis, particularly products with higher CBD content, may help people fall asleep more easily and sleep more soundly³.

You can read up on cannabis and sleep in our recent blog, too!

Approaching Cannabis with Care

While there’s growing excitement around cannabis and mental wellness, it’s important to stay informed. One 2019 review concluded that while early data is promising, evidence is still emerging, and more research on its use – and the long-term effects of cannabis on mental health – is needed. Cannabis is not a replacement for traditional care, but when used thoughtfully and under the guidance of a certified physician, it may have the potential to aid in treating certain mental health conditions⁵.

As Dr. Newton puts it, “Research indicates that medical cannabis, when integrated responsibly with counseling and other therapies, can offer substantial relief.”

Finding the Right Support

If you’re curious about cannabis as part of your mental wellness toolkit, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Navigating medical cannabis use starts with informed conversations. Speaking with a health professional who understands your needs – and the nuances of cannabis care – ensures a more tailored and likely successful experience.

You can also join one of Trulieve's local outreach events to elevate your knowledge, connect with community resources, and find supportive professionals.

Mental Health Awareness Month is a powerful reminder to take care of our emotional wellbeing this month and every month. With compassionate care, open-minded exploration, and a willingness to try new options, we can all take steps toward a more balanced body and mind.

If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health, you're not alone. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers free, confidential support and resources. Call the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or visit nami.org/help to chat with a trained volunteer.