Exploring Alternative Stress Treatments with Medical Cannabis

Struggling with stress or anxiety disorders? Discover how UK medical cannabis could provide alternative stress treatments to help manage symptoms and improve wellbeing. Learn more with Lyphe Clinic.

Stress is a normal part of life, however, when it becomes chronic or overwhelming, it can develop into a serious health issue.

The Burnout Report 2025 by Mental Health UK highlights significant generational differences in workplace stress and mental health:​

• Prevalence of Stress: 91% of UK adults experienced high or extreme stress in the past year, with 34% feeling this ‘always’ or ‘often’, indicating a consistent risk of burnout.
• Generational Divide: According to the The Times newspaper 18-24-year-olds are the most affected, with nearly one-third taking time off due to stress-related mental health issues, compared to only 10% of those aged 55 and above.
• Communication Gap: Younger employees are less likely to discuss stress with their managers, pointing to a breakdown in trust and communication within workplaces.  
• Support Preferences: Mental Health UK suggest that despite hesitancy to communicate, 18-24-year-olds are most receptive to interventions like reasonable adjustments, mental health training, and supportive management to alleviate stress and prevent burnout. ​
• Healthcare Access: Younger individuals are three times more likely to require time off due to health deterioration caused by NHS waiting times than those aged 55 and above.

According to the NHS, stress can affect both mental and physical health, potentially leading to anxiety, depression, insomnia, digestive issues, and high blood pressure.¹

For some, traditional treatments such as therapy or prescription medications are effective. But many people in the UK are now exploring alternative stress treatments, including medical cannabis, for natural and sustainable relief.

What is a Stress Disorder?

A stress disorder is more than feeling overwhelmed—it refers to persistent mental and physical symptoms triggered by stress. Common types include:

• Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Panic Disorder
• Acute Stress Disorder

Symptoms may include:

• Difficulty sleeping or relaxing
• Rapid heart rate
• Constant worry or tension
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability or mood swings
• Physical symptoms like headaches or digestive issues

When untreated, stress disorders can severely impact a person’s quality of life.

Standard Treatments for Stress in the UK

The NHS recommends several approaches, including:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications
• Mindfulness and stress-reducing techniques
• Lifestyle changes and exercise

While many find these helpful, others may experience side effects or feel these methods fall short.

Medical Cannabis: A Natural Alternative Stress Treatment

Medical cannabis is gaining recognition in the UK as a natural alternative treatment for managing stress and anxiety-related disorders. Cannabis contains cannabinoids like CBD and THC, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system—a network that plays a role in regulating mood, stress response, and sleep.

How Medical Cannabis May Help:

• Reduces anxiety
• Supports better sleep quality
• Promotes emotional balance and relaxation
• Reduces physical symptoms of stress (e.g. muscle tension, headaches)

Research suggests cannabinoids may influence serotonin pathways in the brain, similar to how some anti-anxiety medications work, but with a different side-effect profile.²

Lyphe Clinic: A Trusted UK Provider of Medical Cannabis for Stress

At Lyphe Clinic, we provide personalised treatment plans for patients struggling with stress-related conditions. Our licensed medical professionals assess your symptoms and, if appropriate, can prescribe medical cannabis legally in the UK.

We work with patients experiencing:

• Chronic stress
• PTSD
• Anxiety and panic disorders
• Insomnia related to stress

Access is simple, virtual, and compliant with UK medical guidelines.

Check your eligibility here

Final Thoughts

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by stress and looking for a natural, regulated alternative, medical cannabis might offer relief where other treatments haven’t worked. With expert guidance from Lyphe Clinic, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Take the first step toward a calmer, more balanced Lyphe.

Learn more about medical cannabis read our medical cannabis plant basics guide

Footnotes

1. NHS. (2023). How to manage stress.
2. National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2020). Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders.