How Medical Marijuana Can Help You Work With an Illness
Workplace absenteeism due to illness can significantly affect both employees and a business. Chronic illness, mental health issues, and pain can all affect your ability to remain productive throughout the workday. Medical marijuana may be an effective solution for those who are looking for a natural way to manage symptoms associated with chronic illness so they can remain productive at the office. Using medical marijuana can help people manage their medical conditions and pain so that they can focus on work which will help make them better employees.
Reduction in Pain Perception
Chronic pain is one of the most common reasons people use medical marijuana. Cannabinoid receptors are located throughout the spinal cord and brain, and by interacting with these receptors, THC can moderate the transmission and perception of pain. While this interaction is temporary, it may reduce pain symptoms to a manageable level and allow a person to continue through their workday without severe pain.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
In addition to pain reduction and help with pain management, medical marijuana is effective at reducing chronic inflammation associated with diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Cannabinoids potentially inhibit specific receptors that are responsible for inflammation. By reducing inflammation, medical marijuana can help workers better manage the discomfort and pain associated with inflammation-related conditions.
Decreased Anxiety
Many people live with anxiety related to their chronic pain symptoms. Anxiety can be debilitating and significantly impact their ability to concentrate on work-related tasks. While some people take prescription medications to manage their anxiety symptoms, they may not work for everyone. Some of these medications also come with significant side effects. Medical marijuana interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system and can help reduce anxiety and promote an overall sense of well-being and calmness.
Alleviate Depression and Insomnia
Insomnia and depression can significantly impact a person’s ability to perform in the workplace. A decrease in performance can lead to absenteeism, inability to concentrate, decreased productivity, and increased stress. In addition, insomnia can lead to potential workplace accidents due to fatigue. Medical marijuana improves sleep in some cases, specifically for those living with multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, and post-traumatic stress disorder. By using medical marijuana to alleviate mood and promote better sleep, workers are well-rested, less likely to have a workplace accident, and more productive in the office.
Viable Alternative to Prescription Opioids
While some people with chronic pain may use prescription opioids, these powerful medications come with a risk of dependence and addiction. Medical marijuana can effectively treat specific conditions and reduce the chance of dependence. Furthermore, unlike opiates, there is no risk of a fatal overdose with medical marijuana. In some studies, patients using medical marijuana report that using marijuana is as effective as opioid-based medications to manage their chronic pain.
Medical marijuana is a safer alternative to powerful and highly addictive pain medications. While medical marijuana may not be a cure for chronic illness, it can help you manage your symptoms and get through your busy day. It’s best to reach out to a trusted healthcare professional on which medical marijuana option is the right choice for you and your medical conditions.
