Many Arizona patients visit a medical marijuana dispensary looking for a cannabis strain that will help with their mental health, in addition to their qualifying condition. Common concerns include grogginess, lack of focus, depression and inability to cope with everyday tasks. Others want to boost their mental acuity and become more positive in their thoughts.

Jessica, a Budtender at SAINTS Dispensary, says that “patients often ask for something to help with clearing up negative thoughts.” A strain that she often recommends is Race Fuel, a sativa that SAINTS grows. Other common concerns that patients want relief from include: depression, anxiety, increased energy, focus and concentration. A patient visiting SAINTS mentioned that she loved Pineapple Express, because it is “strong and helpful to keep me focused on the task at hand.”

Tucson SAINTS Dispensary grows several strains that will help these common problems. Many strains that boost energy and help with mental issues are Sativa or Hybrid strains, due to their stimulating effect on the mind, making patients feel more positive, happy and motivated.

Katy Estrada, Grow Inventory Manager, says, “Strawberry Cough is one of my favorite sativa dominant strains that we grow. Not only does it smell and taste like actual strawberries, but the overall effect of this strain is what I love. Dealing with generalized anxiety disorder can sometimes make it difficult to find a sativa strain that works. With Strawberry Cough, I don’t get thoughts of paranoia or anxiety. It actually helps with my anxiety. The overall effect provides me with uplifting euphoria and a focused mind, while also feeling energized and alert.”

A patient has said, “Strawberry Cough and Sour Diesel both help treat my ADD/ADHD and give me a major burst of energy in the morning.”

Estrada also states, “Pineapple Express is a great strain that provides the perfect blend of calmness and alertness. It helps to keep the mind at ease while also bringing out creativity and a nice energetic buzz. It’s a great strain for stress and depression.”

As more and more research continues, it is evident that medical marijuana helps to effectively treat many problems in the field of mental health.

To buy hemp-derived CBD products in Arizona, you do not need a medical marijuana card. SELECT CBD products, made from hemp oil, can be found in SAINTS dispensary. CBD products that have both THC and CBD require a current Arizona medical marijuana card to purchase. See ad, page 43.