How cannabis plays a role in managing anxiety as a busy mom.

Being a mom is one of the most rewarding yet challenging roles we take on. As the mother of an 12-month-old, I’ve found myself juggling the endless demands of parenthood, household duties, and personal life—all while trying to manage the inevitable anxieties that come with it. From the overwhelming “to-do” lists to the ever-present “mom guilt,” anxiety can easily creep in and derail even the best of days.

For me, cannabis has become a powerful tool in managing this anxiety, helping me stay grounded, calm, and present through it all. In this post, I’ll share how cannabis has helped me find peace in the chaos, balance the challenges of motherhood, and reclaim moments of calm.

1. Understanding My Anxiety as a Mom

Before I became a mom, anxiety wasn’t something that played a big role in my life. But after giving birth to my daughter, Emberly Jade, I began to notice the subtle ways anxiety started creeping in—worrying if I was doing enough, constant second-guessing, and that familiar pit in my stomach during particularly stressful days.

Motherhood, as joyful as it is, can be overwhelming. I found myself constantly mentally spinning between caring for my baby, managing household tasks, and wondering if I was making the right decisions. This anxiety made it difficult to stay present, and I knew I needed to find a way to manage it—both for my mental health and for my family.

2. How Cannabis Helps Me Manage Anxiety

When I first turned to cannabis for anxiety relief, I was cautious. I had used it before for relaxation, but using it specifically for mental health felt different. As I researched and tried different strains, I quickly learned that cannabis could be an incredible tool for easing anxiety and bringing me back to the present moment.

Here’s how cannabis helps me manage anxiety as a busy mom:

A. Grounding My Thoughts

One of the biggest ways cannabis helps me is by grounding my racing thoughts. On tough days, when I feel overwhelmed by a never-ending list of things to do, cannabis allows me to quiet the noise in my mind. It helps me slow down and prioritize what’s truly important without feeling like I’m losing control.

With the right strain, I’m able to step back from that anxious “fight or flight” mode and regain a sense of calm. This allows me to approach motherhood from a more present and focused place, rather than constantly feeling like I’m scrambling to keep up.

B. Enhancing Mindfulness

One of the best things cannabis does for me is heighten my mindfulness. When I’m feeling anxious, it’s easy to get stuck in my head, replaying worries or scenarios over and over. Cannabis helps me become more mindful by tuning into the present moment. Whether I’m spending time with my daughter, working on a project, or simply resting, cannabis allows me to fully engage with what’s happening right now instead of spiraling into future worries.

C. Easing Physical Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety often isn’t just mental—it’s physical. Tight shoulders, headaches, and that all-too-familiar feeling of tension in my chest are common signs of my anxiety creeping in. Cannabis helps me relax my body, releasing that physical tension and helping me feel more comfortable in my own skin.

I’ve found that strains with higher CBD levels are particularly helpful for managing the physical symptoms of anxiety. CBD is known for its calming, non-psychoactive effects, making it perfect for moments when I want relief without feeling “high.”

3. Finding the Right Strains for Anxiety Relief

Not all cannabis strains are created equal, especially when it comes to managing anxiety. For me, the key has been experimenting with different strains and paying attention to how each one affects me. Here are a few of my go-to strains for anxiety relief:

A. Harlequin (CBD-dominant)

Perfect for: Reducing anxiety without feeling high.

Harlequin is one of my absolute favorites for managing anxiety. It’s a CBD-dominant strain, meaning it offers the calming benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects of THC. I love this strain for daytime use, especially when I need to stay clear-headed while caring for Emberly.

B. Cannatonic (CBD-dominant)

Perfect for: Easing physical tension and promoting relaxation.

Cannatonic is another high-CBD strain that’s ideal for reducing both mental and physical symptoms of anxiety. It has a subtle, relaxing effect that doesn’t interfere with my day but helps me feel more centered and at ease. If I’m feeling particularly tense or stressed, Cannatonic is my go-to.

C. ACDC (CBD-dominant)

Perfect for: Long-lasting calm without a heavy high.

ACDC is a great strain for moms who want the calming effects of cannabis without the overwhelming high. It’s especially helpful when I need long-lasting relief from anxiety but still want to be active and present throughout the day.

4. Finding Balance: Cannabis and Motherhood

Using cannabis as a tool for anxiety doesn’t mean I’m escaping from motherhood. Instead, it helps me show up as a more patient, grounded version of myself. When I’m able to manage my anxiety effectively, I’m better equipped to handle the challenges of motherhood with grace. I can engage more fully with my daughter, enjoy the little moments, and approach each day with a clearer mind and a more open heart.

Cannabis allows me to be the best mom I can be—by first taking care of myself.

5. Tips for Moms Using Cannabis for Anxiety

If you’re considering incorporating cannabis into your anxiety management routine, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Start Low and Go Slow: If you’re new to cannabis or trying it specifically for anxiety, start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. Overdoing it can sometimes have the opposite effect, increasing anxiety instead of relieving it.
• Find the Right Strain: Everyone’s body reacts differently to cannabis, so take the time to experiment with different strains to find what works best for you. For anxiety relief, I recommend starting with CBD-dominant strains.
• Create a Calm Environment: Set yourself up for success by creating a calm, comfortable environment when using cannabis for anxiety. Whether it’s a quiet moment with a cup of tea or a relaxing bath, pairing cannabis with mindful, soothing activities can enhance its effects.
• Use Cannabis Intentionally: Remember that cannabis is a tool for self-care, not an escape. Use it intentionally to manage anxiety and enhance your ability to be present in your day-to-day life.

Final Thoughts: Cannabis as a Tool for Balance

As a mom, managing anxiety can feel like an uphill battle. But cannabis has been a crucial part of my self-care routine, helping me stay grounded and present through the chaos. Whether I’m navigating the daily challenges of motherhood or simply taking time to recharge, cannabis allows me to find balance and approach life with a calmer, more open mindset.

If you’re a mom struggling with anxiety, know that you’re not alone—and it’s okay to explore different tools that can help. For me, cannabis has been a game-changer, offering a natural, effective way to manage anxiety and find peace in my day.

Do you use cannabis for anxiety relief? Share your experiences or favorite strains in the comments below!