Nightmares amongst veterans are a common occurrence.
Some might have nightmares that play over and over again, much like a replay of a horrible scene that is stuck on repeat.
Whether nightmares about combat itself, a serious accident, the loss of someone close, or simply a manifestation of the strong emotions associated with several aspects of military service, finding a way to end these night terrors is paramount to living a balanced and healthy life.
Nightmares occur during REM sleep, which is the last cycle of sleep we have on a given night.
Research shows that cannabinoids (particularly THC) suppresses REM sleep, which can in turn suppress the nightmares that occur in veterans.
Basically, cannabis can make you dream less or stop dreaming at all.
Ask anyone who regularly consumes cannabis who stops consumption. They’ll typically express how vivid their dreams become.
Nabilone (a synthetic cannabinoid), for example, was initially reported to have resolved or decreased the severity of nightmares in 72% of cases based on a review of 47 patients with at least a two-year history of nightmares related to PTSD.
Final Thoughts
Increased awareness on the numerous problems our veterans face each and every day is vital.
These men and women have put their lives on the line and deserve access to and information about every treatment available to them.
There are several clinical trials, as well as tons of anecdotal evidence on the efficacy of CBD and THC for helping with many of the problems our veterans are currently facing.
From helping relieving symptoms of PTSD, learned fear, anxiety, and more, there are many veterans that are turning to cannabis, whether in the form of CBD, THC, or a little bit of both.
Are you a veteran who has had success using CBD?
We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below.-