Hemp for Victory presents Prescriptions vs Cannabis: A Veterans Choice. Virtual panel discussion.

Shared with the generous permission of Hemp for Victory. 

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions around PTSD, trauma, suicide, and the challenges with pain management and mental health, which may be distressing for some listeners. Please take care while listening if these topics are triggering.

For 24/7 crisis support, anyone in need—including veterans, service members, their families, and caregivers—can reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988. Veterans can connect directly with the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1, texting 838255, or chatting online with a VA responder.

In this impactful conversation, you will gain a deep understanding of how Cannabis serves as a transformative alternative to traditional medications for veterans, specifically when transitioning from prescribed pills to Cannabis. Dr. Phillip Blair and Dr. Corey Burchman provide an expert breakdown of what occurs within our bodies during this transition, illuminating the physiological shifts when replacing pills with Cannabinoids. Two veterans who have made this change share personal stories, reflecting on the challenges that led them to seek alternatives and how this switch has improved their lives. Through these insights, you will discover the unique benefits Cannabis offers for PTSD, pain, and sleep management, free from the addictive risks associated with opioids and the need for individualized dosing and product consistency. This conversation not only highlights the potential of Cannabis to improve veterans' quality of life but also underscores the importance of accessible care and education around alternative treatments.

Key Takeaways:

• Introduction to Hemp for Victory: A nonprofit focused on educating communities about the benefits of Cannabis for Veterans.
• Limitations of Conventional Medications: Traditional treatments for PTSD, such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications, have a low success rate (20-30%) and often come with significant side effects, including risks of suicidal ideation. This raises concerns about their effectiveness in treating patients.
• Cannabis vs. Opioids: Cannabis offers a safer alternative to opioids for pain relief, as it does not lead to addiction and has a different mechanism of action.
• Safety of Cannabis: Cannabis does not carry the same respiratory risks as opioids, making it a safer option for pain management.
• Importance of Consistency: Using consistent products from regulated dispensaries is vital for achieving reliable results in pain management with Cannabis.
• Need for Coordinated Care: The lack of coordination among multiple healthcare providers contributes to ineffective treatment strategies for PTSD. A unified approach involving a primary care physician could improve medication management, including the integration of cannabinoids into treatment plans.
• Educational Gaps in Medical Training: Many physicians, especially those in training at the VA, lack education on the endocannabinoid system and its implications for treatment. This knowledge gap limits their ability to discuss or prescribe medical Cannabis effectively.

About Hemp for Victory

Hemp for Victory is a non-profit organization focused on the education of Cannabis and its positive impact on the veteran community. We’re here to have an open dialogue, help remove stigmas, and create a real understanding of our veterans’ use of Cannabis as a natural way to manage their mental and physical challenges as a result of their service. Ultimately, we want to offer hope for a healthier road ahead.

To learn how you can support Hemp for Victory in its mission to improve the health and lives of veterans Click the button to learn more.

Effective Cannabis Newsletter is a platform to educate on the vital role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in one's health. The information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information contained in or available through this newsletter is for general information purposes only. It is not medical advice; it is health awareness.