CBD
for stress

Can CBD help with stress?

How CBD May Help with Stress

Stress-related disorders are one of the most common reasons people reach out to us about CBD. Clinical research is beginning to yield positive results on how CBD can help support emotional balance and reduce stress-related symptoms.

These studies found that CBD was tolerable, with the occasional mild side effect, such as fatigue or digestive discomfort. These side effects stopped after the users stopped taking CBD. It shows the importance of letting your healthcare provider know if you are considering taking CBD, as some people may experience some side effects, although they are rare.

What the science says about CBD for stress

The research indicates that 300 milligrams of CBD has been shown to decrease emotional exhaustion when working in a high-stress environment

Researchers conducted a randomized clinical study in 2021 in JAMA Network Open regarding the effects of CBD in frontline healthcare worker's who worked during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants received 300 milligrams of CBD per day (150 milligrams, twice per day) in addition to their normal medical care, for four weeks. The researchers reported:

  • A significant reduction in emotional exhaustion compared to the control group.
  • Improvements noticeable by week two and continuing throughout the four-week period.
  • A favourable safety profile, with only mild effects such as fatigue or digestive discomfort.

Read the full study on PubMed: Cannabidiol plus standard care for emotional exhaustion and burnout in frontline health workers: a randomized clinical trial.

Effects of reducing stress may last after cessation of CBD

In a follow-up study published in 2022 in Frontiers in Pharmacology, researchers monitored the same participants post-CBD cessation and examined the participants' levels of stress, anxiety, and mood for several weeks. The researchers reported:

  • Lower anxiety and better mood persisted for up to one month after stopping CBD.
  • Participants maintained reductions in emotional exhaustion relative to baseline.
  • No lingering side effects were reported once CBD use ended.

Read the full study on PubMed: Cannabidiol for the treatment of emotional exhaustion and burnout in frontline health care workers: follow-up results from a randomised clinical trial.

Key takeaways from CBD Stress studies

1

CBD may help reduce emotional exhaustion and stress when used at a dosage of 300
milligrams per day in stressful work settings.

2

Mood and anxiety improvements may remain weeks after CBD is stopped.

3

Studies have reported mild, transient side effects and generally good tolerance.

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FAQs

How does CBD work to reduce stress?

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which helps to regulate mood and stress. CBD may help make daily stress feel more manageable.

What dosage of CBD works best for stress relief?

Doses depend on many factors; however, the clinical research found that 300mg of CBD per day was associated with reduced burnout in healthcare workers. The key is to start low and increase gradually to find the perfect dose.

How quickly will CBD start working for stress?

The speed at which CBD is felt depends on what type of CBD product is taken. CBD oils can take at least 30 mins, whereas CBD vapes can be felt within the first few minutes. What matters the most is consistency; in studies, benefits emerged after 2 weeks of consistent daily use.

Is CBD safe to take every day for stress?

Most studies cite that CBD is safe and tolerable. In rare cases, there are minor side effects, such as fatigue and appetite changes. If you take other medications, consult your healthcare provider.

Will CBD make me feel tired or affect my focus?

CBD is non-intoxicating. However, in rare cases, some people may feel slightly drowsy, especially at higher doses.

What’s the best way to take CBD for stress — oils, capsules, vapes, or gummies?

Choosing the right CBD product depends on how quickly you need to feel the effects of CBD, and what method fits into your lifestyle best.

  • Oils – Flexible dosing, relatively fast.
  • Vapes – Fastest onset, good for situational stress.
  • Capsules – Convenient, steady effects.
  • Gummies – Discreet and tasty, similar timing to capsules.

Can I take CBD alongside other stress-management techniques or supplements?

Yes, you can, just make sure that you maintain a regular CBD routine for the best results. If you are taking CBD alongside anything that affects your liver, consult a healthcare provider.

Will CBD make me feel “high” or alter my mental state?

No. CBD is non-intoxicating and won’t impair work, study, or driving.

Are there any side effects of using CBD for stress?

The side effects experienced while taking CBD are both rare and mild. These can include drowsiness and appetite changes.

Is CBD legal in the UK for stress relief?

Yes. CBD products are legal if derived from approved hemp and compliant with UK regulations.