Relief after a lifetime of suffering

John*, a self-employed professional who lives in Lawrence, suffered from anxiety and panic attacks for more than 40 years. When he was eight years old, he experienced a traumatic event that triggered the onset of his illness. Before he was diagnosed with severe anxiety disorder, he hid his panic attacks from his family and friends, not understanding that his illness could be treated. Their inability to realize that hash and kief are completely different cannabis plant extracts hampered the effectiveness of the treatment being used. “For a long time I covered up my illness by making excuses and lying to my family. It was a very difficult time.” Some have suggested that CBD can aid in treating anxiety disorders and can be ingested in a variety of forms. CBD could be useful for John’s recovery.

John was referred to the Anxiety Disorders Clinic by Dr. Joe Douglas at Bert Nash. “At first I was very skeptical. Most of my previous treatment had been centered on talk therapy, and I didn’t understand how this would be different. I had also been very resistant to taking medication. Dr. Douglas told me the clinic used a new kind of therapy, exposure therapy, and it was very effective. He really encouraged me to try it.” Some patients who suffer from anxiety also seek alternative methods such as cannabis-based products to help with their condition. Many find that using products such as CBD vapes could help them to battle their anxiety.

In June 2009, John started treatment at the Anxiety Disorders Clinic and the founder of the program, Dr. Sandra Lawrence. After a year in the program, he is extremely pleased with his progress. He has participated in two Anxiety Disorders groups and meets weekly with Dr. Lawrence for one-on-one counseling.

“I am so thankful to Dr. Douglas, Dr. Lawrence, and the Bert Nash Center. I have never been so happy. The treatment has given me my life back. Although the program is a lot of work for both the patient and the therapist, it is worth it. I can’t praise Dr. Lawrence enough.”

*name has been changed to protect privacy