How CBD can help manage stress

Chasing deadlines, juggling childcare, navigating cost-of-living worries, managing a never-ending to-do list – most of us are carrying more pressure than ever before. A survey by the Mental Health Foundation found that three in four people in the UK have felt so stressed they were overwhelmed or unable to cope. And when stress becomes a chronic presence in our lives, it can seriously affect our health, our mood and our relationships.

So it's no wonder many of us are searching for more mindful, effective and sustainable ways to manage it.

Our relationship with stress: what's going wrong?

Stress is a natural part of life. In small doses, it can even be helpful, motivating us to focus, take action or rise to a challenge. But modern life often demands more than our nervous systems were designed to handle. We’re always switched on, rarely offline and often expected to function with minimal rest. When we don’t manage stress properly, our bodies produce high levels of cortisol and adrenaline – hormones designed for short-term survival, not long-term use. Over time, this leaves us feeling drained, irritable and emotionally on edge.

29% of people reported increasing their alcohol intake due to stress
16% started smoking or smoked more
Many turned to excessive screen time, late-night scrolling and emotional eating
Unsurprisingly, many of us lean on unhealthy habits in response. The 2018 survey found that:

The issue? These coping mechanisms might offer short-term relief but tend to make things worse in the long run, leaving us more anxious, wired and tired.

A new approach: managing stress without the side effects

A growing number of people in the UK have turned to CBD (cannabidiol) over the last decade as a gentler, non-intoxicating way to help the body and mind manage stress. While it’s not a magic fix (and we wouldn’t trust anyone who says otherwise), CBD is gaining popularity for good reason: it may support the body’s natural stress response without the grogginess, dependency or next-day fog.

But how does it actually work?

How CBD works: the science behind the calm

CBD is one of over 120 cannabinoids found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Unlike THC (the psychoactive compound), CBD won’t get you “high” but it does interact with important systems in your body, particularly the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

The ECS is a complex network of receptors found throughout the brain, nervous system, and immune system. It helps regulate many vital functions, including mood, sleep, immune response, memory and stress recovery. When we’re stressed, the ECS kicks in to help bring the body back into balance – but sometimes it needs a little extra support. This is where CBD may help.

Studies suggest that CBD indirectly influences serotonin receptors (specifically 5-HT1A), which are involved in regulating mood and anxiety. It may also help reduce the release of cortisol, calming the nervous system and helping you feel more grounded.

What the research says about CBD and stress

While research into CBD is ongoing, an increasing number of clinical studies support its potential for stress and anxiety management. A 2022 study found that CBD use was associated with significant improvements in anxiety, sleep quality, mood, and cognitive performance in participants experiencing high stress levels. And a large review of preclinical studies concluded that CBD shows promise for treating several anxiety-related disorders, including generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder and PTSD.

Of course, CBD is not a replacement for therapy or medical treatment when needed, but for many, it can be a valuable part of a natural stress management toolkit.

Choosing the right CBD for stress relief

One of the biggest advantages of CBD is its versatility. It comes in multiple formats to suit different lifestyles and preferences:

CBD oils: Fast-acting and easy to dose, ideal for daily use or moments of high stress.

CBD gummies: A tasty way to get a consistent dose, no measuring or droppers required.

CBD drinks: Great as an alcohol-free evening wind-down option.

For those struggling with sleep – a major contributor to stress – CBD Night Drops combine CBD with natural sleep-promoting ingredients to support deeper rest and better recovery.

Tips for managing stress naturally

Pair your CBD with other small, sustainable lifestyle habits. Here are a few of our favourites:

Go for a walk: Nature and movement both help reset the nervous system
Turn off your phone: Give your mind a break from notifications and screen time
Stay hydrated: It’s easy to underestimate how much dehydration affects focus
Prioritise sleep: Rest and recovery are key foundations for managing stress well
Breathe deeply: A few minutes of slow, intentional breathing can improve your day
Talk to others: Sharing how you feel can be a helpful part of managing stress

Calmer, clearer, more in control

Feeling burnt out doesn’t have to be a part of modern life.

If you’re looking for a natural way to support your mind and body through challenging moments, CBD offers a promising alternative. CBD can be a simple way to bring balance back into your routine; it may allow you to have a mid-morning moment of calm, a soothing end to the day and to feel more like yourself.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking other medications.