Medical Cannabis for Anxiety and Depression: Benefits, Risks, and Legal Access in Australia

One of the most common mental health problems faced by many Australians today is anxiety and depression. One in every seven Australians will experience depression in their lifetime, and one in four will face an anxiety condition, according to Beyond Blue. Such disorders have far-reaching consequences, including hindering daily functioning, impacting relationships, employment, and throughout wellness. With growing awareness around mental health topics comes increased curiosity around alternative treatment solutions. One emerging treatment gaining attention in mental health is the use of medical cannabis for anxiety and depression. 

These days, medical cannabis is gaining more popularity, and is also recognised by many healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies as a potential option for patients who have not found relief through conventional therapies. In this blog, we will explore how medical cannabis may help with mental health, its benefits and risks, and how Australians can legally access it.

What are Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety is often described as thinking about particular things excessively, nervousness, or fear that interferes with daily activities. Some of the symptoms include uneasiness, rapid heartbeat, fatigue, and difficulty focusing. Depression, on the other hand, involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep, and, in some cases, thoughts of self-harm.

In Australia, millions of people are impacted by these conditions every year. The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates that around 17% of Australians experience some form of anxiety, while depression affects approximately 10% of the population annually.

Conventional mental health treatment typically includes antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, psychotherapy (like cognitive behavioural therapy), and lifestyle changes. However, these treatments don’t work for everyone. Some patients report side effects or limited improvement, leading many to explore alternative options like medical cannabis. However, it depends on individual circumstances and the specific condition being addressed

What Is Medical Cannabis?

Medical cannabis refers to the use of cannabis plants or their components, mainly cannabinoids like THC and CBD, for therapeutic purposes. In Australia, medical cannabis is legally prescribed under strict regulations for specific medical conditions.

There are two main compounds found in cannabis:

• CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-psychoactive and often associated with calming, anti-inflammatory, and anti-anxiety effects.
• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The psychoactive compound that causes a “high” and is used for pain relief, nausea, and sometimes mental health support.

Understanding the difference between CBD and THC is essential when considering cannabis for mental health. While CBD is often preferred for anxiety and depression due to its non-intoxicating nature, THC may have benefits in low doses but can also worsen anxiety if not properly managed.

Types of medical cannabis products include:

• Oils: Taken orally for longer-lasting effects.
• Capsules and tablets: Offer precise dosing and convenience.
• Vaporisers: Inhaled for quicker onset, commonly used in Australia for flos (herbal cannabis).

How Does Medical Cannabis Help with Anxiety and Depression?

Medical cannabis for anxiety and CBD oil for depression are still in research, but early evidence shows excellent and promising results. Studies suggest that cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors in the body that helps regulate mood, sleep, and stress response.

Key insights from clinical studies:

• One 2019 study found that CBD reduced anxiety scores in participants over four weeks.
• Low doses of THC may improve mood and relaxation, but higher doses can lead to increased anxiety or paranoia.
• A 2022 RACGP article noted the increasing prescription of herbal cannabis (flos) in Australia, especially through vaporisation for mental health indications.

Real-world experience in Australia:

• Many patients prescribed medical cannabis for mental health report improvements in sleep, stress reduction, and overall mood.
• Clinics such as DPV Health evaluate each patient’s history before approving access to medical cannabis, ensuring it aligns with therapeutic goals.

Note: Medical cannabis can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan, especially for those who have exhausted conventional options.

Potential Side Effects and Mental Health Risks

Medical cannabis can have potential risks and side effects, like all medications. Cannabis side effects can vary depending on the product type, dosage, and individual tolerance.

Possible side effects include:

• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Short-term memory impairment
• Increased anxiety or paranoia at high THC doses

Mental health risks of cannabis:

• THC, especially in high doses, can worsen symptoms in individuals with a history of psychosis or bipolar disorder.
• There is also concern that regular use of high-THC cannabis may lead to dependence in vulnerable individuals.

Important: There should be professional prescription guidance before any use of cannabis. 

Is Medical Cannabis Legal for Anxiety and Depression in Australia?

Yes, medical cannabis laws in Australia allow eligible patients to access cannabis-based medicines under strict regulatory frameworks. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) oversees the approval and supply of unregistered medicinal cannabis products through two main access pathways:

1. Special Access Scheme (SAS-B): Allows individual doctors to apply to prescribe cannabis for a specific patient.
2. Authorised Prescriber Scheme: Doctors with approval can prescribe to multiple patients without applying each time.

Cannabis clinics across Australia have specialised teams to manage these pathways, helping both doctors and patients navigate the process. TGA cannabis approval ensures that prescribed products meet safety and quality standards under Therapeutic Goods Order No. 93 (TGO 93).

Few medical cannabis products are fully registered with the TGA, while there are hundreds of other products available under some special schemes. It’s important to work with healthcare providers familiar with prescription cannabis for mental health to ensure legal and safe access.

Step-by-Step: How to Legally Access Medical Cannabis in Australia

Step 1: Talk to your General Practitioner or a cannabis clinic

• Discuss your symptoms, previous treatments, and interest in medical cannabis.
• Your doctor will assess whether you’re qualified based on your medical history.

Step 2: Prescription application

• If your doctor supports medical cannabis treatment, they’ll apply via SAS-B or become an Authorised Prescriber.

• This application goes through the TGA and sometimes state-level health departments.

Step 3: Get your prescription filled

• Approved products are dispensed through pharmacies or shipped directly.
• You’ll receive detailed instructions on dosage and use.

Step 4: Monitor and follow up

• You’ll have regular check-ins to track symptom changes, adjust dosage, or report side effects.

Eligibility requirements typically include:

• Diagnosed with anxiety or depression
• History of inadequate response to standard treatments
• Absence of contraindications like psychotic disorders

Pros and Cons of Using Medical Cannabis for Anxiety and Depression

Some of the pros and cons of using medical cannabis for anxiety and depression are listed below: