REVIEW OF: Gournay LR et al, J Trauma Stress 2024;37:946–958
STUDY TYPE: Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial

Millions of people experience trauma-related symptoms that fall short of PTSD. Many turn to cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound from cannabis that, unlike THC, doesn’t produce a high. It’s marketed as a natural calming agent and has been studied for anxiety, depression, psychosis, insomnia, and substance use. So far, the research has found no definitive benefit for any psychiatric condition. This study looked at whether it can help with trauma-related distress.

Researchers randomized 42 adults with elevated perceived stress, a history of trauma, and at least one PTSD re-experiencing symptom, but not full PTSD. They received either 300 mg of CBD or placebo daily for one week. Patients completed trauma script–driven imagery sessions after the first dose to test acute effects, then completed them again after one week to test repeated effects. Outcomes included anxiety, distress, and heart rate, measured with rating scales and ECGs.

There was no difference between CBD and placebo on any outcome at any point. Side effects were mild and similar in both groups.

CARLAT TAKE
This study was small and short, and the authors felt it was underpowered, so perhaps it won’t be the final say—but for now, it is the best evidence we can cite when patients with stressful life events ask about CBD. This study also is consistent with the APA’s position recommending against CBD for other psychiatric indications.