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If you're a resident of Missouri struggling with depression, you're probably aware that it is widely recognized as one of the most incapacitating conditions globally. If you use cannabis and find relief from it, you might be curious about whether depression qualifies as a medical condition for obtaining an MMJ card in Missouri.
Is it possible to obtain a medical card for depression in Missouri? What about anxiety, which often accompanies depression? These two conditions are frequently interconnected.
At KIF, we firmly believe in providing people with the opportunity and liberty to embrace natural medicine for their bodies. If marijuana helps alleviate the distressing symptoms of depression or anxiety, we wholeheartedly support safe access to medical cannabis products for those who can benefit from it.
Now, let's explore whether obtaining a medical card for depression in Missouri is an option.
The Application Process
If you believe you meet the criteria for obtaining a medical card for depression in Missouri, the application process is relatively straightforward. You will need to:
Visit a Licensed Physician: Schedule an appointment with a licensed physician who is registered with the Missouri Medical Marijuana Program.
Obtain a Written Certification: During your consultation, the physician will evaluate your medical history and condition. If you meet the requirements, they will provide you with a written certification stating that you qualify for medical marijuana.
Register with DHSS: Register with the Department of Health and Senior Services as a qualifying patient and submit your physician's written certification along with other required documentation.
Pay the Application Fee: Pay the necessary application fee to complete the registration process.
Can You Get A Medical Card For Depression In Missouri?
Depression affects a vast number of individuals globally, impacting over 17 million people in the U.S. alone. Experts assert that the prevalence of depression has reached epidemic proportions.
Although traditional antidepressants are effective for some individuals, they do not yield positive results for everyone.
While marijuana may not be universally effective in alleviating depression, it does provide significant relief for certain individuals.
Moreover, not everyone prefers using prescription medication to manage their mental health.
A recent study on medical cannabis use among people with clinical depression revealed that marijuana users reported lower depression scores compared to non-users. Additionally, participants who began using marijuana during the follow-up period experienced reduced levels of depression and anxiety symptoms.
Although further research is required, it appears that MMJ (medical marijuana) can offer valuable assistance.
The practice of self-medicating with marijuana to alleviate depression symptoms is widespread. If you or someone you care about has found relief from depression and anxiety through cannabis use, it's essential to know that there are several states where depression qualifies as a medical condition for obtaining an MMJ card.
Is Missouri among those states?
Is Depression One Of The Qualifying Medical Conditions For An MMJ Card In MO?
Using a medical card for depression is a prevalent practice in Missouri, known as the Show Me State. As of the start of 2022, nearly 17% of the Missouri MMJ cards were utilized to address mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has outlined the qualifying medical conditions for obtaining an MMJ card, which include:
1. Cancer
2. Epilepsy
3. Glaucoma
4. Intractable migraines unresponsive to other treatments
5. Chronic medical conditions causing severe, persistent pain or muscle spasms (e.g., multiple sclerosis, seizures, Parkinson's disease, and Tourette's syndrome)
6. Debilitating psychiatric disorders diagnosed by a state-licensed psychiatrist (e.g., post-traumatic stress disorder)
7. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immune deficiency syndrome
8. Chronic medical conditions usually treated with prescription medications that could lead to physical or psychological dependence (if a physician deems medical marijuana a safer and effective alternative)
9. Terminal illness
10. Any chronic or debilitating medical condition a medical professional believes would benefit from medical marijuana (including hepatitis C)
11. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS/Lou Gehrig's disease), inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), Crohn's disease, Huntington's disease, autism, neuropathies, sickle cell anemia, agitation of Alzheimer's disease, cachexia, and wasting syndrome.
With over 17 qualifying medical conditions, Missouri residents meeting any of these criteria have the opportunity to naturally support their health using cannabis products.
So, to answer the question: Yes, it is possible to obtain a medical card for depression or anxiety in Missouri. If you're wondering how to qualify for medical marijuana in Missouri for depression or anxiety, take a look at the eligibility requirements.
How To Qualify For A Medical Marijuana Card In Missouri For Depression
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) in Missouri does not consider "depression" as a qualifying medical condition for a medical card. However, they do accept "debilitating psychiatric disorders" diagnosed by a licensed psychiatrist. So, if you have received a diagnosis for depression from a licensed psychiatrist, you might still be eligible to obtain a medical card.
Another condition that qualifies for a medical card in Missouri is a "chronic medical condition that is normally treated with prescription medications, which could lead to physical or psychological dependence." While there is controversy surrounding the physical and psychological dependence on antidepressants, there is evidence suggesting that they may have adverse effects on certain individuals. In cases where a physician believes that medical marijuana could be a more suitable alternative, you could potentially qualify for a Missouri marijuana card.
Additionally, the Missouri medical marijuana law permits the use of medical marijuana for "any other chronic, debilitating, or other medical condition" at the professional judgment of a physician. Therefore, if a physician determines that your depression meets the criteria for a debilitating condition, you may be eligible to obtain your Missouri medical marijuana card.
Conclusion
If you are struggling with depression and believe medical cannabis could improve your quality of life, consult a licensed physician to determine your eligibility for a medical card in Missouri. Remember, always prioritize your mental health and seek professional advice for the best treatment options available.
Must Read: How To Renew Your Missouri Medical Marijuana Card Online?
