Can You Get a Medical Card for Anxiety in Florida in 2024?

In eligible states, residents may qualify for a medical marijuana card, or MMJ, allowing them to lawfully obtain, possess, and consume the drug with a doctor’s recommendation. But can you get a medical card for anxiety in Florida?

Nearly one-third of adults experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. Many medications for anxiety are ineffective, take several weeks to start working, or have unpleasant side- effects. But as more states legalize medical marijuana, people with anxiety are turning to medical cannabis as an alternative method for treating their symptoms.

Fortunately, the Florida government enacted the Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act of 2014, granting residents with certain medical conditions access to non-smoked, low-THC marijuana, such as edibles and vaping. However, you’re only eligible to apply for an MMJ card if you’re diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition under Florida law.

Keep reading to learn more about obtaining a medical card for anxiety in Florida.

Qualifying Conditions for Medical Marijuana in Florida

Patients looking to treat their anxiety with medical cannabis must fulfill certain requirements to be eligible for an MMJ card in Florida. To start, you must be a Florida resident. While there are no age requirements, underage patients will need a parent or caregiver to register on their behalf.

Additional requirements include receiving a diagnosis for any of the following state-approved qualifying medical conditions:

• Cancer
• Epilepsy
• Glaucoma
• HIV/AIDS
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Crohn’s disease
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Even if your condition isn’t listed above, you may still qualify for an MMJ card if any of the following applies:

• A terminal condition diagnosed by a licensed physician
• Medical conditions of the same kind or class as or comparable to those listed
• Chronic pain caused by a qualifying medical condition or originating from a qualifying medical condition persists beyond the usual course of that qualifying medical condition

So Can You Get a Medical Card for Anxiety in Florida?

Anxiety isn’t listed explicitly as a qualifying condition under state law. However, if you’re a Florida resident experiencing anxiety symptoms, you may still qualify for an MMJ card under the following specifications:

“Medical conditions of the same kind or class as or comparable to the others listed.”

The process to register for an MMJ card in Florida begins with an evaluation by a licensed marijuana doctor. As of July 1, 2023, per House Bill 387, patients must receive an in-person physical examination by a qualified physician for the initial certification (any subsequent exams for certification renewals can be conducted virtually).

The physician will evaluate your current condition and review your relevant medical documentation—such as medical records, prescriptions, office visit summaries, or an official letter stating your diagnosis—to determine whether your anxiety symptoms meet the requirements of a qualifying condition and if medical cannabis is a viable treatment.

If approved, the licensed physician will enter your information into the Florida Medical Marijuana Use Registry. Then you’ll receive an email prompting you to log in to the registry and complete your application for your Registry ID card.

The Effects of Cannabis on Anxiety:

Cannabidiol (CBD), one of the main ingredients in cannabis, has been shown to provide therapeutic benefits for patients struggling with anxiety.

When consumed, CBD interacts with various receptors in both the central and peripheral nervous systems, which help regulate fear and anxiety. This connection produces anxiolytic effects in the body—or inhibits anxiety—helping to reduce anxiety-related symptoms.

There’s also an ongoing debate about whether cannabis helps anxiety or causes it. A recent study exploring the anxiogenic (anxiety-inducing) and anxiolytic (anxiety-inhibiting) effects in marijuana found that CBD and lower doses of THC help reduce anxiety. However, consuming high doses of THC may actually lead to increased anxiety and other mental health disorders. It’s best to consult with your licensed marijuana doctor to determine the right dosage for you.

Schedule an Appointment with a Medical Marijuana Doctor in Florida Today!

Anxiety disorder is one of the most common psychological conditions in the United States. If you’re a Florida resident and you’re experiencing anxiety, medical cannabis may be the best option for treating your symptoms.

To speak with a licensed marijuana doctor and determine if you’re eligible for an MMJ card, turn to Green Health Docs. Our team offers in-person and telehealth visits (according to state regulations) and provides you with the information you need to obtain your FL medical card.

Our mission is to help patients take back control of their lives with natural medications like marijuana. To learn more, schedule an appointment today.

This article has been reviewed by Dr. Anand Dugar, an anesthesiologist, pain medicine physician and the founder of Green Health Docs. Graduating from medical school in 2004 and residency in 2008, Dr. Dugar has been a licensed physician for almost 20 years and has been leading the push for medical cannabis nationwide.