I was overjoyed when my bottle of CBD vape liquid arrived this weekend: a 500mg Blue Raspberry vape juice. Prior to this, I had been oscillating between gummies (which I didn’t enjoy) and disposable vape pens from a local shop—definitely not the ideal situation during a pandemic. Stuck in isolation, my CBD pens have become crucial for my mental well-being, especially as those disposable options were becoming quite expensive. CBD is a soothing balm for my anxiety, which has been particularly heightened in this time of global uncertainty.
Here’s how it works for me: I begin to feel anxious—maybe it’s a trivial email, but my mind spirals into chaos as if the world is ending. I grab my vape pen and take a few puffs. Within minutes, as long as it’s not a complete meltdown, I feel more composed.
What’s even better is I’ve learned to use CBD as a preventive tool. Instead of waiting for anxiety to strike, I take puffs at random moments throughout the day, which helps maintain my calm and keeps me even-keeled. As I write this, I’m taking hits from my pen; it allows me to feel grounded and pleasant instead of overwhelmed by anxiety.
Understanding CBD
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the primary active components in cannabis, according to Harvard Health. This can be confusing since marijuana, a type of cannabis, is bred for high THC content—the psychoactive component that gets you high. CBD is derived from hemp, a close relative of marijuana. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp cultivation as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC, making CBD non-psychoactive. So no, I’m not typing under the influence nor am I wandering around in a haze.
Legally, CBD varies across the states, but fortunately, it’s permitted in my area (with the exception of Iowa, Idaho, and South Dakota). I decided to try it, and after experiencing its calming effects, I began using it more regularly—first as a quick fix and now as a staple in my routine. Importantly, CBD is not addictive, as confirmed by Addiction Resource, reassuring those who worry about dependency.
I’m Not Alone in This
According to Quartz, 85% of Americans recognize CBD, and one out of five have tried it, often for similar reasons as me: relaxation (55%), stress relief (50%), and improved sleep (45%). Although research is still inconclusive, I can attest to its effectiveness for anxiety. It appears that CBD does help alleviate “stress, anxiety, and pain,” making it a useful tool for relaxation.
The Science Behind CBD
Our bodies contain an endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating homeostasis and is found in all vertebrates. This system, present for over 500 million years, has receptors throughout our body—impacting everything from mood to appetite and stress response. When we consume CBD, it’s believed to stimulate these same receptors. Some studies suggest that CBD may exhibit various benefits, including anti-anxiety effects, making it especially relevant in these stressful times.
My Experience with CBD
I have a charming little blue vape pen that I use sporadically throughout the day or whenever I sense anxiety looming. In just a few moments, my worries fade into the background, allowing me to function relatively normally. The Blue Raspberry flavor is delightful, and it doesn’t leave a bad aftertaste, provided I stay hydrated. I avoid blowing vape smoke around my kids, and I’m less concerned about secondhand exposure than I would be with cigarettes. Mostly, I vape outdoors or in the bedroom.
It’s important to clarify that CBD won’t get you high, nor is it a replacement for prescription anti-anxiety medications (which I still take). However, it has helped me avoid reaching for my emergency klonopin dose during the day. CBD has seamlessly integrated into my medication routine and has been effective in supporting me through these challenging times. In a world filled with uncertainty, finding tools that help us cope is what truly matters.
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Summary
CBD has become an essential part of my life during the pandemic, helping me manage anxiety and maintain a sense of calm. By understanding its effects and how it interacts with our body’s systems, I have found a supportive tool that complements my existing mental health medications. This journey has shown me the importance of finding effective coping mechanisms during stressful times.