Hey you, how are you doing? Feeling ok? Maybe a little depressed? It will be okay, we are here for you.

This time of year can be hard for multiple reasons, don’t be so hard on yourself.

Depression, which is also called Major Depressive Disorder or Clinical Depression is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working.

Did you know?

1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year
1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year
1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year
50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-14 

Mental health is something we take very seriously. All of us struggle, but you’re never alone. If you missed our previous blog post on anxiety, click here.

Depression Symptoms

To be diagnosed with depression, the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks.

If you have been experiencing some of the following signs and symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
• Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism
• Feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness 
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
• Decreased energy, fatigue, or feeling “slowed down”
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Difficulty sleeping, early morning awakening, or oversleeping
• Changes in appetite or unplanned weight changes
• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
• Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause that do not ease even with treatment
• Suicide attempts or thoughts of death or suicide

Treatment and Therapies

Thankfully, depression, even the most severe cases, can be treated. The earlier treatment begins, the more effective it is. Depression is usually treated with medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two.

If you are looking for an alternative to anti-depressant medication, we have another option for you.

There are many people who claim that cannabis helps them through depression. For some, cannabis can aide the mind with an elevated sense of engagement and motivation. We know it can stimulate hunger, conversation with friends, and spark interest in your hobbies.

Remember that not all cannabis strains are equal:

• THC strains are the most common. They produce the euphoric high associated with cannabis, along with appetite stimulation. Some people find THC’s effects to pique curiosity and motivation, but others may find that it worsens anxiety.
• CBD strains are less common. Because their effects range from no high at all to mild intoxication, these strains are often preferred by those who are new to cannabis or anyone looking to avoid the anxious side effects of THC.

Try These Strains

Thanks to Leafly for putting this list together, for more information on these strains, click the links below .

These are not the only strains that can help with depression (and anxiety) symptoms, but they are defintely a great place to start.

Cinex

Primary terpenes: Limonene, caryophyllene, pinene

Cannabinoid profile: THC-dominant

Known for its creative stimulation and lightweight effects, Cinex can rekindle interest in the hobbies you love (and maybe in the ones you didn’t know you loved!). Cinex leads with the citrusy terpene limonene, which is being studied for anxiety and depression relief.

Jack Herer

Primary terpenes: Terpinolene, caryophyllene, pinene

Cannabinoid profile: THC-dominant

Jack Herer is a strain cherished for its uplifting qualities that inspire happiness and creativity. With an aroma of sharp pine and freshly cut wood, Jack can provide a sense of comfort and motivation on low days.

Harlequin

Primary terpenes: Myrcene, pinene, caryophyllene

Cannabinoid profile: Balanced THC/CBD

Harlequin balances the benefits of both THC and CBD, resulting in a strain that can deliver relief alongside a clear head. CBD helps counteract the sometimes  anxiety-inducing effects of THC, so if you’re prone to nerves, Harlequin is for you.

Granddaddy Purple

Primary terpenes: Myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene

Cannabinoid profile: THC-dominant

Granddaddy Purple is a soothing strain that can awaken appetite and encourage a sense of serenity throughout the mind and body. This strain is best saved for late nights when you need a little help finding a cool, calm headspace before bedtime.

Cannatonic

Primary terpenes: Myrcene, pinene, caryophyllene

Cannabinoid profile: Balanced THC/CBD

Cannatonic is another high-CBD strain that delivers you to bliss without the anxiety often associated with high-THC strains. If THC makes you feel sluggish or hazy, consider the clarity and unencumbered relief Cannatonic offers many consumers.

XJ-13

Primary terpenes: Terpinolene, caryophyllene, pinene

Cannabinoid profile: THC-dominant

With its bright citrusy aroma, XJ-13 has a way of throwing color back into the world and sharpening the senses. If you’re looking to invite curiosity, creativity, or a social spark back into your mind, you might consider this sweet, uplifting strain.

Blackberry Kush

Primary terpenes: Myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene

Cannabinoid profile: THC-dominant

Can’t seem to shake those late-night thoughts keeping you up? Let Blackberry Kush ease you into sleep with its meditative tranquility that helps you find stillness in mind and body.

SHOP PASSINGRASS

To shop our current PassinGrass menu, click here. If you have any questions and/or are in need of a recommendation, just ask. We would love to help you find what you are looking for.

We are available for delivery Monday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 6:45 PM. Get your order in now! Enjoy.