© 2024 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

PTSD, Insomnia Patients Urge State Panel To Allow Use Of Medical Marijuana

Jake Neher MPRN

Post-traumatic stress disorder and insomnia could be added to the list of ailments that can be treated with medical marijuana in Michigan.

As The Michigan Public Radio Network’s Jake Neher reports, a state board heard overwhelming testimony Thursday in favor of expanding the number of illnesses that qualify.

Melody Karr says doctors have told her cannabis might not be helpful for the PTSD she’s suffered since her husband’s grisly suicide. They said side-effects such as forgetfulness could interfere with talk-therapy.

“The problem is not that I can’t think or talk about my post-traumatic stress and the issues related to it,” she says.  “The problem is that I can’t stop thinking or talking about it.”

Earlier this year, a similar board approved marijuana use for PTSD. But that board was dissolved by the state because it said its members were not properly appointed.

The new board will make its recommendations on PTSD and insomnia after it’s done collecting public comment next month.

Jake Neher is a reporter for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He covers the State Legislature and other political events in Lansing.
Related Content
Journalism at this station is made possible by donors who value local reporting. Donate today to keep stories like this one coming. It is thanks to your generosity that we can keep this content free and accessible for everyone. Thanks!