Does CBD Help With OCD Intrusive Thoughts?

Understandably, many OCD sufferers who are plagued with relentless intrusive thoughts day in and day out look for any possible treatment that may help alleviate symptoms.

Recently, those with OCD have turned their attention toward ‘alternative treatments’ such as CBD (Cannabidiol).

In the last few years, CBD has gained global praise from users for its ability to help with anxiety and stress relief. 

If you search the internet you will be met with streams of case studies from individuals who consider CBD a lifesaver. And while these reports are not to be dismissed or disregarded, it is important that we gather all of the information before we decide whether or not CBD is going to be helpful in our own OCD recovery.

If CBD has piqued your curiosity and you wonder whether it will help your OCD symptoms, this article will help shed some light on the pros and cons of CBD for OCD.

OCD: An Overview

Before we can decide whether or not CBD is an effective option for our own OCD recovery, let’s first understand what OCD is, and what it is not.

OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) is a common mental health condition that is experienced by up to 2% of the world’s population.

It is characterized by two components, obsessions and compulsions.

Obsessions are the relentless, painful, and all-consuming fears that arise in the form of thoughts, images, urges, feelings, and sensations. These obsessions create an immense degree of uncertainty and anxiety (which is why OCD is often known as the ‘doubting disorder’).

Unable to tolerate the uncertainty and discomfort of those obsessions, sufferers perform repetitive ritualistic behaviors known as compulsions.

For someone with OCD, the intense desire to try and resolve the uncertainty created by those compulsions creates an urgency to respond. This could be in the form of physical compulsions or mental compulsions.

Common compulsions may include reassurance-seeking, avoidance of people, places, or things that trigger those obsessions, checking (mentally or physically) ruminating on one’s thoughts, counting, and or excessive washing, for example.

When we experience obsessions, the anxiety, and distress escalate until we have performed those compulsive behaviors that offer temporary relief.

However, engaging in these behaviors ultimately keeps the OCD cycle in motion and makes it more difficult to manage the next time those obsessions arise.

What are Intrusive thoughts?

Intrusive thoughts within OCD are a specific type of obsession.

These thoughts are often disturbing, repetitive, and unwanted, and can be shocking in nature. They seemingly pop into a person’s mind and can feel beyond their control. 

OCD is egodystonic in nature, which means that these obsessions go against their values, beliefs, and morals.

It can leave a sufferer questioning their identity and conjure severe levels of uncertainty, guilt, and shame, with many battling the belief that they are a ‘bad person’ or are perhaps ‘going crazy’.

Intrusive thoughts can make OCD sufferers feel isolated and misunderstood. Fear of judgment or being misunderstood can lead to social withdrawal and reluctance to share their experiences with others. 

The reason intrusive thoughts are so painful is that they create high levels of doubt, and, in true OCD fashion, those doubts can feel very real and convincing.

This could sound like:

• What if I do want X,Y, or Z?
• What if you want to (do bad behavior)?
• What if (bad outcome) happens because you didn’t (do action)?

“What if” intrusive thoughts are not the only type of intrusive thought, but they are incredibly common and experienced by most with OCD.

Knowing this, it is understandable that those who battle with these repetitive, internal narratives seek a variety of possible approaches that may reduce these uncomfortable experiences.

What is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant. 

It is one of over 100 cannabinoids present in cannabis, but unlike its well-known counterpart THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the “high” sensation typically associated with marijuana use.

CBD has gained significant attention for its potential health benefits and therapeutic properties. 

It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters, which plays a role in maintaining balance and harmony in various physiological functions.

The potential benefits of CBD are diverse and have been studied for various conditions.

For example, research suggests that CBD may help alleviate pain by influencing the endocannabinoid receptors, reducing inflammation, and interacting with neurotransmitters involved in pain perception. 

Additionally, CBD has shown promise in reducing anxiety and stress levels, possibly by affecting serotonin receptors in the brain, which regulate mood and emotions.

CBD has also been investigated for its potential to improve sleep quality and relieve insomnia symptoms. Its neuroprotective properties have sparked interest in its use for conditions like epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. 

Moreover, CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may be useful in combating inflammation associated with various diseases and conditions.

In the realm of skin health, topical CBD products are used for conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. 

Some studies even suggest that CBD may aid in managing addiction and withdrawal symptoms, showing potential in the field of substance abuse treatment.

Despite these promising findings, it’s important to note that more research is needed to understand CBD’s potential benefits and long-term effects fully, especially in the realms of OCD.

Furthermore, the quality of CBD products can vary, so it’s crucial to choose products from reputable sources and follow proper dosing guidelines.

Can CBD ease the symptoms of OCD?

You don’t have to look too hard to find many online case studies of those with OCD sharing their success using CBD to ease symptoms.

And while we would never discount these experiences, it’s important to understand both the pros and cons of using CBD to ease OCD symptoms such as intrusive thoughts.

Let’s take a look at it from both angles…

Arguments for CBD in Easing OCD Symptoms

1. Anxiolytic Properties: CBD has shown promising anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects in various studies. As obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) involves high levels of anxiety and distress, CBD’s potential to alleviate anxiety may indirectly improve OCD symptoms. A study published in 2015 found that CBD reduced anxiety behaviors in both animal and human models.

2. Neuroprotective Effects: OCD is believed to involve abnormal brain circuitry and neurotransmitter imbalances. CBD’s neuroprotective properties might help modulate these pathways and contribute to a reduction in OCD symptoms. A 2019 review suggested that CBD’s neuroprotective actions may have therapeutic potential for psychiatric disorders, including OCD.

3. Inhibition of Compulsive Behaviors: Some animal studies have indicated that CBD may reduce compulsive behaviors. These findings raise the possibility that CBD might have a direct impact on the compulsive rituals and repetitive thoughts that characterize OCD. However, more human-based research is needed to validate these effects.

Arguments Against CBD in Easing OCD Symptoms:

1. Limited Human Studies: While some animal studies and preliminary human research show promise, there is still a lack of robust clinical trials specifically focused on CBD’s effect on OCD. The existing research is limited, and more extensive, controlled trials are required to draw definitive conclusions.

2. Dosing and Safety Concerns: CBD dosing can be challenging to determine, and its effects may vary from person to person. Additionally, some individuals may experience side effects, including fatigue, changes in appetite, and interactions with other medications. Proper supervision and consultation with a healthcare professional are crucial.

3. Placebo Effect: The potential therapeutic effects of CBD might be influenced by the placebo effect, where individuals experience improvements due to their beliefs about treatment rather than the treatment itself. Well-designed, placebo-controlled trials are essential to discern CBD’s actual impact on OCD independently from placebo responses.

How much CBD should take to ease OCD symptoms?

Before we approach this question, it is worth mentioning at this stage that our primary approach for treating OCD would be Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), as it has been scientifically shown to be most effective in managing OCD symptoms. 

CBT focuses on identifying and challenging obsessive thoughts and engaging in alternative behaviors to reduce compulsions. Numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of CBT in treating OCD.

While CBT is the recommended first-line treatment, some individuals may be curious about using CBD as a complementary approach. 

It’s essential to remember that the use of CBD for OCD is still an area of ongoing research, and there is limited clinical evidence on its efficacy and optimal dosing for OCD symptoms. Because CBD is not an FDA-approved treatment for OCD, there is no standard dose.

The appropriate CBD dosage can vary based on individual factors such as body weight, metabolism, and the severity of symptoms. Additionally, CBD products vary in concentration and formulations, which makes it challenging to establish standardized dosing.

It’s advised that CBD is NOT used as a replacement for evidence-based treatments like CBT for OCD. CBT has consistently demonstrated effectiveness and is considered the gold standard treatment for OCD. 

If someone is considering trying CBD, it should be seen as a supplementary option under the guidance of a healthcare professional and in conjunction with evidence-based psychotherapy.

Are there any side effects of using CBD for OCD?

CBD is generally considered to be well-tolerated, and serious side effects are rare. However, like any supplement or medication, CBD may have potential side effects that individuals should be aware of, especially when used in the context of managing OCD. 

It’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, including CBD, to assess potential risks and interactions with other medications.

Some reported side effects of CBD include:

1. Dry Mouth: Dry mouth is a common side effect of CBD use. A review of studies published in 2017 reported that dry mouth was the most frequently reported side effect.

2. Fatigue and Drowsiness: Some individuals may experience feelings of tiredness or drowsiness after taking CBD. This effect may be more pronounced in higher doses.

3. Gastrointestinal Disturbances: CBD can sometimes cause digestive issues, such as diarrhea or changes in appetite.

4. Changes in Liver Function: High doses of CBD may affect liver enzymes, which can be a concern for individuals with liver conditions or those taking medications that are processed in the liver.

5. Interactions with Medications: CBD can interact with certain medications, potentially altering their effects. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional if you are taking other medications to avoid any adverse interactions.

It’s important to note that the side effect profile of CBD may vary from person to person.

Research on the safety and side effects of CBD is still evolving, and new studies are continuously being conducted. Given the ongoing nature of research, it is recommended to stay updated with the latest information from reputable sources and consult specialists for personalized advice.

Best advice for managing OCD intrusive thoughts?

While CBD may provide temporary relief for some individuals with OCD, it is important to acknowledge that it is not a cure or a definitive long-term solution. 

It can be tempting to opt for the ‘solution’ that offers immediate results, however there have not been enough studies conducted on the effectiveness of CBD for OCD in the long-term.

While some users do report it reducing anxiety, this is where we encourage you to resist falling into the trap that many will find appealing!

What so many OCD sufferers want is to ‘get rid’ of the anxiety and uncertainty.

This is what we find so paralyzing.

However, the effectiveness of CBT and ERP treatment for successful OCD recovery lies in our willingness to feel and tolerate the anxiety.

When we do that, we teach our brains that those obsessions and intrusive thoughts are not a real source of danger and that we do not need to respond using compulsive behaviors.

Those compulsions rob sufferers of time, energy, love, companionship, friendships, and experiences. So it is beneficial to learn to tolerate the anxiety (and your response to it) rather than rely solely on a substance such as CBT to reduce anxiety levels without then practicing exposure therapy.

Is CBD an effective treatment for intrusive thoughts

Research to date has not concluded that CBD is an effective treatment for intrusive thoughts.

The most effective treatment for managing OCD intrusive thoughts is exposure and response prevention therapy, ERP.

This proven behavioral methodology teaches you how to tolerate the uncertainty and anxiety following those intrusive thoughts, without needing to engage in compulsions.

When you begin treatment with a qualified specialist, they will start by providing education and knowledge about the different components of OCD so that you feel equipped to engage in the treatment.

ERP is often complemented by other modalities such as ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) and Mindfulness. You will be given these tools to help support you as you move through the treatment plan.

You will then work together to create a hierarchy of exposures that you can begin working through. These exposures will be done at your own pace and you will never be asked to do anything that you don’t feel achievable.

Through ERP, you will learn healthy ways to cope with those intrusive thoughts and the anxiety that accompanies them. Over time, the anxiety decreases and those intuitive thoughts become far less problematic.

Private 1:1 Therapy

Our team of highly qualified mental health professionals is trained to the highest standards and offers a warm and compassionate approach to therapy.

Clients come to us afraid and doubtful.

They know they can’t carry on living this way but they just aren’t sure that recovery is possible for them. We quickly show them that it is!

When you come to us, you’ll be met with an elite team of licensed OCD specialists who are invested in your recovery.

You’ll be met without judgment and you won’t be asked to do anything that you don’t feel you can manage.

We’re going to work on this together (and this can include the exploration of using CBD if this is something you are interested in learning more about).

A life where intrusive thoughts don’t rule every waking hour of our day is not as far away as you might think.

If you’re interested to see how we can support you and you’re based in California, please submit an initial intake form here.

We would be honored to assist your OCD recovery.

Online program

If private therapy isn’t currently an option for you, OCD specialist Kimberley Quinlan has created an affordable online program called ERP SCHOOL that is accessible to everyone.

You will learn the exact tools and techniques given to those in a private therapy setting, and you will understand how to apply them to your specific intrusive thoughts and compulsions.

By the end of the program, you will have the knowledge and understanding to stop letting your intrusive thoughts ruin your life and resist the urge to do compulsions that keep you trapped in the OCD Cycle.

Join ERP SCHOOL here.

FAQs: CBD for OCD 

• Will CBD oil help with overthinking?

Many anxiety-relief tools and products can be helpful in reducing overthinking, as this is a common symptom of those with high anxiety levels. 

However, like most things, CBD should be considered more of an aid than a ‘cure’ to overthinking. Mindfulness and self-compassion practices are considered highly effective for those who feel ‘stuck in their head’ and seek tools and techniques to reduce excessive overthinking and rumination.

• Is CBD effective in reducing symptoms of OCD?

As mentioned above, CBD can help sufferers improve sleep, manage pain, and temporarily alleviate symptoms of anxiety. Many proclaim they experience a sense of ‘calm’ after using CBD. 

• Does CBD calm intrusive thoughts?

As written in the article above, studies have shown a reduction of intrusive thoughts after taking CBT however, the research is inconclusive and in its infancy.

Other papers have noted initial improvement that is unsustainable for long-term results without increasing the CBD dosage.