Anxiety in New Zealand: Exploring Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options With Cannabis

From the New Zealand Health Survey conducted between 2017 and 2020, approximately 12% of women and 5.1% of men in the Auckland District Health Board region were diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. This highlights the prevalence of anxiety and the need for effective anxiety treatment in New Zealand.

Here's what every New Zealander needs to know about anxiety disorders and their treatment options.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural stress response to difficult or tense situations. However, if you frequently experience feelings of fear or terror without a clear reason, or if these feelings significantly affect your mental health, you may have an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety disorders go beyond a normal response to stress. Anxiety symptoms  often last for six months or more, leaving individuals in a constant state of worry and dread. This overwhelming fear can disrupt daily activities and lead to avoiding situations that might trigger symptoms.

Different Types of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety can manifest in various forms, each with unique symptoms and triggers.

1. Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD): The most common form, characterised by persistent and excessive worry about everyday events and activities.
2. Panic Disorder: Sudden, intense episodes of fear or terror, often accompanied by physical symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.
3. Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense fear of social situations and being judged by others.
4. Specific Phobias: Extreme fear of particular objects or situations, such as heights or spiders.

It's important to note that stress is not the same as anxiety. Stress is a short-term response to external pressures, while anxiety disorders are long-term mental health conditions.

Anxiety Symptoms

The symptoms of anxiety disorders vary depending on the type of anxiety and the individual. Common anxiety symptoms  include:

• Increased heart rate
• Racing thoughts
• Sweating
• Trouble concentrating
• Hyperventilation (rapid breathing)
• Shaking or trembling
• A sense of impending doom
• Difficulty breathing
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
• Avoidance of specific activities or places

These symptoms can be both distressing and disruptive but are manageable with proper anxiety treatment In New Zealand.

Causes of Anxiety

While the exact causes of anxiety disorders are not fully understood, they are likely influenced by a combination of brain chemistry, genetics, and environmental factors. Common triggers include:

• Childhood trauma or neglect
• Traumatic life events
• Certain medical conditions
• Substance abuse
• Chronic stress or caregiving responsibilities

As research progresses, the mechanisms in the brain that contribute to the stress response and anxiety will likely become clearer.

Anxiety Treatment In New Zealand

The good news is that anxiety disorders are treatable. Common approaches for anxiety treatment in NZ include. 

1. Medication:

Options range from SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) and other antidepressants to beta-blockers and antipsychotics. While effective, these prescription medications can have side effects, leading some to explore non-pharmaceutical alternatives.

2. Therapy:

Individual talk therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and other counselling methods help individuals understand and manage their anxiety disorders.

3. Lifestyle Changes:

Simple practices like journaling, avoiding caffeine, regular exercise, and meditation can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms. Maintaining a healthy diet, getting quality sleep, and spending time with loved ones also play a key role in anxiety management.

4. Alternative Therapies:

CBD oil and medicinal cannabis are emerging as promising treatments for anxiety disorders. Research has shown that low-THC cannabis strains and CBD products can have therapeutic potential for anxiety relief.

Clinical Research on Medicinal Cannabis and Anxiety

Medicinal cannabis interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood and anxiety. Studies have shown that cannabis strains with low THC and high CBD can help alleviate anxiety disorders.

• A 2019 study found that a single dose of CBD oil reduced anxiety in patients with social anxiety disorder.
• Research has highlighted CBD's anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, particularly for Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and social anxiety.

While more clinical trials are needed, the findings suggest that medicinal cannabis, especially CBD oil, may be a valuable tool for managing anxiety disorders.

CBD vs THC for Anxiety

When considering CBD vs THC for anxiety, it's important to understand their different effects:

• CBD oil is non-psychoactive and has shown promising results in reducing anxiety symptoms.
• THC, while potentially beneficial for some, may increase anxiety in others, especially in high doses.

Always consult with a healthcare professional or a Cannabis Clinic for personalized advice on using CBD oil or other cannabis products for anxiety.

Potential Side Effects of Medicinal Cannabis

Though generally safe, medicinal cannabis can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. Products high in THC may worsen anxiety and, in rare cases, lead to paranoia or psychosis.

In contrast, traditional anxiety medications like SSRIs can have significant side effects, including weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and withdrawal symptoms. For some, medicinal cannabis may be a safer and more effective option.

Always use medicinal cannabis under the guidance of a doctor experienced in cannabis care.

Accessing Medicinal Cannabis for Anxiety in New Zealand

Medicinal cannabis is available for treating anxiety disorders in New Zealand, though it is strictly regulated. Patients must have a chronic condition, such as an anxiety disorder, and demonstrate that other treatments have been unsuccessful. A prescription from a qualified medical practitioner is required.

For more information, consider contacting a reputable Cannabis Clinic in New Zealand.

Why Does CBD Oil Reduce Anxiety?

CBD oil interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain responsible for regulating mood and anxiety. This interaction promotes a sense of calm and reduces feelings of anxiety, contributing to its therapeutic potential.

Can Anxiety Be Treated Permanently?

While anxiety disorders cannot be cured, they can be effectively managed through a combination of therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and alternative treatments like medicinal cannabis and CBD oil.

The goal of anxiety treatment is to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives despite their condition.

If you're concerned about your mental health, consider taking an anxiety self-test or reaching out to a healthcare professional to discuss the best anxiety treatment options in New Zealand for your needs.