CBD for Menopause Depression: Does It Work?

Wondering if CBD might work as an alternative treatment for menopause depression? ✔️ Here are some things CBD does (and doesn't do) for depression symptoms.

MENOPAUSAL DEPRESSIONMENOPAUSAL DEPRESSION TREATMENT

Kennerly Clay

5/13/20243 min read

woman using dropper for cbd in tea for menopause depression

Does CBD work for menopause depression?

Menopause brings a host of challenges, and for many women, depression is one of them. While traditional antidepressants are often prescribed, they don't always work for everyone. This has led many to explore alternative treatments like cannabidiol (CBD). But does CBD work in treating menopause depression? Let's look at the potential benefits and evidence surrounding CBD and its role in managing menopause and mental health.

Understanding menopause depression

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. During this period, hormonal fluctuations can lead to a variety of symptoms, including mood swings and depression. This form of depression can be particularly challenging because it often coincides with other menopausal symptoms, like hot flashes, sleeplessness, and deadening fatigue. It's no wonder the darkness often creeps in and treating menopause depression becomes imperative. This time, for many women, is a bitch.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the United States.

CBD and its benefits

CBD is a compound found in cannabis plants that has gained popularity for its potential therapeutic benefits. Unlike THC, another compound in cannabis, CBD does not produce a psychoactive effect. Instead, it is known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and analgesic properties. These attributes make CBD an attractive option for those looking to manage various health issues, including depression.

Is there evidence that CBD can help with depression?

While research on CBD and depression is still in its early stages, preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD may have the potential to alleviate symptoms of depression. According to a review published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology, CBD can interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, which play a key role in mood regulation. This interaction may help boost mood and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.

Furthermore, studies have found that CBD has a positive effect on the hippocampus, a brain region involved in mood regulation. It's been suggested that CBD could promote neurogenesis (the growth of new neurons), which might help alleviate symptoms of depression.

The operative word here is: "might." And while studies are "suggestive," by no means does this indicate that CBD is a cure-all for depression. Nonetheless, if you're someone who's battling severe depression or even low mood during menopause, and you've tried traditional medical treatments like antidepressants (or you prefer to go with more "natural" methods), then CBD might be for you.

Talk to a trusted healthcare provider about your interest in CBD and make sure you're not taking any medications or have other health conditions that have contra-indications with CBD.

Why people with treatment-resistant depression turn to CBD

For people with treatment-resistant depression—which doesn't respond to conventional antidepressants—alternative therapies like CBD can be particularly appealing. Traditional medications often come with a range of side effects, and their effectiveness can vary. CBD offers a different approach, focusing on the endocannabinoid system, which regulates various physiological processes, including mood and stress response.

Reputable voices in alternative medicine, such as Dr. Ethan Russo, a board-certified neurologist and psychopharmacology researcher, advocate for the potential benefits of CBD. Dr. Russo has highlighted the compound's ability to balance the endocannabinoid system, which can be crucial for mood stabilization.

Is CBD for you?

While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on menopause depression, existing evidence and expert opinions suggest that it may offer relief of symptoms for some people. If you're considering trying CBD, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it's a safe and appropriate option for you. As with any treatment, what works for one person may not work for another, but CBD could be a valuable tool in managing menopause-related depression.