Using Cannabis To Deal With Past Trauma: What The New Medical Studies Are Saying

This article was originally published on Cannabis.net and appears here with permission

In the intricate tapestry of life, childhood trauma is an unfortunate thread that weaves through the fabric of our existence. It is an inescapable reality, one that persists even in the most loving and nurturing of families. This is because each individual, regardless of their background or upbringing, is fundamentally flawed, possessing their own unique set of emotional and psychological vulnerabilities. Moreover, the shadow of generational trauma looms over us, as the effects of past traumas endured by our ancestors may continue to impact our lives in subtle yet profound ways.

Acknowledging the presence of childhood trauma in our lives is essential. It is important to recognize that our experiences, both positive and negative, shape who we are and how we interact with the world around us. By understanding the role that trauma plays in our development, we can begin to unravel the complex web of emotions and memories that have influenced our thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors.

It is our responsibility to confront and address the trauma that we carry within us. No one else can undertake this journey on our behalf; it is a deeply personal and introspective process that requires courage, persistence, and self-compassion. The good news is that we are not alone in this endeavor. A wealth of tools and resources are available to help us navigate the path toward healing and self-discovery.

In this article, we will explore the lesser-known healing potential of cannabis, specifically in relation to childhood trauma. We will also touch upon a blog that delves into the unique experiences of women with childhood trauma. In particular, we will discuss how cannabis can provide a moment of reflection, allowing individuals to better process and address their past experiences.

Cannabis has been found to offer a unique mechanism that aids in dealing with trauma. By providing a mental space where individuals can distance themselves from painful memories, it enables them to detach from the negative emotional loop often associated with trauma. This perspective allows individuals to become observers of their experiences, thereby initiating the healing process.

Cannabis For Women’s Trauma Might Be More Effective? 

A study conducted between 2007 and 2012 in New Haven, Connecticut, systematically examined the association between cannabis use, lifetime history of trauma, and chronic stress, as well as potential gender differences in this association. 

According to the study, "Higher rates of childhood trauma as well as lifetime trauma, and major life events were found in cannabis users, compared to non-users. The association between cannabis use with childhood trauma (total CTQ scores) was significant after controlling for age, gender, ethnicity and regular use of alcohol or cocaine. In logistic regression analysis, cannabis use had a significant positive association with major life events and lifetime trauma, but not with chronic stress, controlling for confounding factors including age, gender, ethnicity, and regular use of alcohol and cocaine. When analyzed separately, only in women the association between cannabis use and childhood trauma was significant" source: SCIENCE DIRECT.

With the increasing acceptance of cannabis as a form of self-medication, it is crucial to examine the psychological factors influencing one's decision to adopt regular cannabis use. Research has established a connection between childhood trauma and cannabis use, suggesting that the plant may help individuals cope with the long-lasting effects of their traumatic experiences.

While it is known that childhood trauma affects boys and girls differently, the reason behind this gender difference remains uncertain. However, research suggests that chronic stress reduces the number of cannabinoid receptors in females more than in males. Consequently, women who have experienced childhood trauma may be compensating for this reduction by using cannabis to stimulate their cannabinoid receptors.

Although scientific understanding of this subject is still developing, numerous anecdotal accounts highlight the benefits of cannabis in addressing trauma. For example, consider a woman who survived an abusive childhood and turned to cannabis to cope with her debilitating anxiety or a war veteran who found solace in cannabis after being haunted by the horrors of combat. These stories may be anecdotal, but they demonstrate the tangible, human experiences that cannabis can help alleviate.

The Sticky Bottom Line

As we embark on the path to healing and self-discovery, we can choose from a diverse array of therapeutic tools and resources to help us address and overcome the traumas we have faced. In this article, we have focused on the use of cannabis as a means to provide a moment of reflection and distance from painful memories. This powerful plant, with its unique capacity to facilitate introspection, allows individuals to view their experiences from a new perspective and initiate the healing process.

In addition to cannabis, there are numerous other therapeutic methods available to support our journey towards growth and resilience. Counseling, for instance, offers a safe and supportive environment where individuals can openly discuss their emotions and experiences with a trained professional. Through this process, individuals can gain valuable insights into their thoughts and feelings, enabling them to better understand and cope with the impact of their trauma.

Meditation & breathwork  is another valuable resource for those seeking to heal from childhood trauma. This ancient practice, which involves focusing the mind and cultivating awareness, has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while fostering emotional well-being and self-compassion. By developing a consistent meditation practice, individuals can learn to be present with their emotions, cultivating a sense of inner peace and acceptance that aids in the healing process.

Support groups, too, can play a crucial role in the journey towards healing. These communities offer a space for individuals to connect with others who share similar experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding that can be profoundly healing. Through open dialogue and mutual support, individuals can find solace in knowing they are not alone in their struggles and can draw strength from the shared experiences of others.

Each of these therapeutic methods, whether used independently or in conjunction with one another, can help transform pain into growth and resilience. By actively engaging with these tools and taking ownership of our healing journey, we can break free from the chains of trauma that have held us back. In doing so, we not only create a brighter and more empowered future for ourselves but also set a precedent of healing and growth for future generations.

Ultimately, the path to healing is a deeply personal and multifaceted journey, and each individual must find the methods that best suit their unique needs and circumstances. By remaining open to the various therapeutic tools available, we can gradually shed the weight of our past traumas, emerging stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to face the challenges that life has in store. In this way, we can truly embrace the potential for a brighter, more empowered future, both for ourselves and for generations to come.