Recently we’ve been asked more often about CBD oil (cannabidiol) in the treatment of anxiety disorder, particularly for pediatrics. On the surface it may seem like a reasonable approach, but I would suggest that it depends on what the goal of using it is. CBD oil may be useful for short term relief of anxiety, such as:
- Taking an exam for an individual with test anxiety
- Social interaction for someone who is shy
- Playing sport, participating in a play for those who have performance anxiety.
However, it should be noted that there is not much evidence on the effects of CBD oil on performance itself: will it actually affect my ability, speed or concentration in these situations? Also, while it may be helpful for a temporary solution, do we want an individual to be reliant on CBD oil in all of these situations indefinitely?
Perhaps another way of thinking about this is to examine what is going to be most beneficial to the individual in the long term. Similarly, would I rather liposuction whenever I get fat or learn how to control my eating habits from a nutritionist and change my exercise routine to be more effective by employing a personal trainer?
I believe that teaching a person to tolerate anxiety and frustration is more useful in the long run than using CBD oil whenever one feels stressed. A common refrain we teach is “getting comfortable being uncomfortable”: can I get used to be anxious rather than having to escape it?