PTSD is not a qualifying condition in two states, nurses hope to change that
The American Cannabis Nurses Association voted on May 12, 2020, to adopt a resolution supporting the use of cannabis for post-traumatic stress disorder.
Cannabis has been approved for medical use in PTSD in 31 states plus the District of Columbia and is available for adult use in 11 states plus the District of Columbia. In Missouri, PTSD is a qualifying condition for psychiatric certification.
The condition isn’t recognized for cannabis use in all medical states – 2 remaining states with medical cannabis programs do not allow PTSD as a qualifying condition. The ACNA is calling on states to pass legislation to qualify the condition in all states.
WHEREAS, symptoms can lead to intrusive memories, avoidance, changes in thinking and mood that are negative, and lead to physical and emotional reaction changes, as well as suicidal thoughts and actions,
WHEREAS, cannabinoids have been shown to help improve sleep, anxiety, hyperarousal and fear related behaviors that are often associated with PTSD and,
Additionally, ACNA says that the prevalence of PTSD over a lifetime is 6.8 percent.
In the same resolution, the group also called for cannabis and hemp reform and the removal of workplace restrictions for healthcare workers – “at high potential risk of PTSD” – to obtain safe access to cannabinoid medicines.
The resolution was submitted by ACNA members Eloise Theisen, Elisabeth Mack, Carey Clark, Rachel Parmelee, Michael Rochlin, Charlene Rowles, Urszula Winkiewicz, Scottie Caten, and Mary Rose Hoff.
