Depression is the leading cause of disability globally, with over 250 million people directly affected by the condition. In a recent study, researchers found that cannabis decreased the intensity of self-reported depressive symptoms in 95.8% of participants. Unlike traditional antidepressants which can take weeks to take effect, the effects of cannabis were seen within two hours in most participants. Symptom relief did not vary by plant phenotypes (indica, sativa, or hydroid) or combustion method. While no serious side effects were found in the short-run, other studies have suggested possible longer term drawbacks of continued cannabis use, such as addiction and cognitive impairments.
