Mental health challenges are not just personal battles – they are a societal issue with far-reaching consequences. In the UK alone, mental health struggles cost the economy an estimated £300 billion annually. Among the affected, men bear a significant burden, with Mamedica’s research revealing that 38% of men in the UK say that they have been living with severe anxiety for years and have not found a remedy to help. Despite a growing awareness of mental health issues, many men feel trapped by stigma or disillusioned by traditional treatment options, due to harsh side effects and a lack of long-lasting symptom relief.

However, an alternative approach is gaining momentum: medical cannabis. Since its legalisation in the UK in 2018, medical cannabis has opened new avenues for treating a variety of mental health conditions, offering men relief from anxiety, stress, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder(PTSD).

The Current State of Men’s Mental Health

Societal pressures, stigma, and a lack of tailored support have long contributed to men’s reluctance to seek help for mental health issues. Suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50, and men are three times more likely than women to take their own lives. Stigma around seeking help, societal expectations, and limited access to mental health services contribute to the crisis.

Many men struggle in silence, with fewer seeking professional support compared to women. However, more people are exploring alternative remedies beyond conventional treatments.

Mamedica’s research shows 26% of UK adults agree that holistic or alternative remedies have improved their quality of life, while 17% have chosen holistic remedies over prescribed medication. Long NHS waiting lists have also influenced decisions, with 19% of adults now opting for alternative treatments.

Additionally, 10% have shifted from traditional painkillers to medical cannabis for symptom relief. These figures highlight a growing interest in alternative options such as medical cannabis, as individuals seek new ways to manage their well-being. As the UK’s leading medical cannabis clinic, Mamedica has seen a surge in demand, with 74% of its patient base now being male.

The Role of Medical Cannabis in Mental Health Treatment

Mounting evidence highlights the potential of medical cannabis in alleviating mental health symptoms. Studies have shown that cannabis-based treatments can positively influence mood regulation by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a vital role in emotional balance. For instance, research suggests that cannabidiol (CBD) can reduce anxiety and improve mood, offering relief for individuals dealing with mental health disorders. A study reveals that cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC, can also support stress reduction and promote relaxation.

Additionally, research also indicates that medical cannabis has shown promise in improving the overall quality of life for patients struggling with anxiety, acting as an alternative treatment to conventional medications. For men facing conditions like anxiety and depression, medical cannabis offers a tailored, symptom-focused approach to healing.

Jon Robson, CEO of Mamedica, points out the transformative impact medical cannabis has had on patients’ lives:

“It has been proven that CBD and low doses of THC can help alleviate the sense of dread and worry associated with anxiety for patients and deliver a general improvement in wellbeing and happiness. All products released to be prescribed in the UK have to undergo rigorous testing. Within that testing process, you are able to identify exactly what’s in that particular cannabis strain or a particular vape cartridge, in terms of THC, CBD and terpenes.”

The Barriers to Access

Despite its potential, medical cannabis remains difficult to access for many in the UK. While private clinics like Mamedica have rapidly expanded, providing care to around 50,000 patients, NHS access remains limited.

The discrepancy has driven demand for private services. Since its launch in 2022, Mamedica has become a leader in the field, offering a streamlined, patient-focused model that prioritises safety, accessibility, and satisfaction.

A Holistic Approach to Men’s Mental Health

One of the most significant advantages of medical cannabis is its ability to address a spectrum of symptoms, from anxiety to chronic pain, in a holistic manner. Mamedica’s tailored approach ensures that each patient receives a treatment plan designed for their unique needs. Following a secure online consultation, patients can access pharmaceutical-grade medicines delivered directly to their door.

This patient-centric approach has not only improved access but also normalised conversations around medical cannabis and mental health.

A New Era of Mental Health Support

As societal attitudes evolve, medical cannabis offers a glimmer of hope for the many men who have felt let down by traditional mental health treatments. With a growing number of men turning to clinics like Mamedica, it’s clear that medical cannabis is reshaping the landscape of mental health care in the UK.

The future holds even greater potential. The medical cannabis market is projected to be worth over $600 million in the UK by 2027, and with continued advocacy and awareness, access to these life-changing treatments could expand even further.

For men navigating the complex and often isolating challenges of mental health, medical cannabis offers more than just relief – it offers a path to reclaiming their well-being and quality of life.

Are you considering medical cannabis?

If you’d like to learn more about medical cannabis our team of experienced doctors are here to offer compassionate care and guidance on your mental health concerns. Patients who are looking to harness the benefits of medical cannabis can get started by checking your eligibility here.