Medical cannabis for sleep lacks proof, and small steps ease choices

1Medical cannabis showed little proof of helping insomnia

The problem. Many people with insomnia (trouble falling or staying asleep) look for new things to help. When the evidence is thin, it is hard to know what really works.

What they found. Cochrane reviewers looked at nine studies of 537 adults being treated for insomnia. Across these studies, medical cannabis gave little or no clear gain in sleep quality or hours slept. It also did little for how well people managed during the day. People who took it had more mild side effects, such as dizziness and dry mouth.

Try this. Next time a product promises better sleep, look for who tested it, how many people took part, and for how long.

How sure is this? A review of nine small studies, the longest only 12 weeks. Reviewers rated the evidence low or very low, so the answer is still open.

Source: ScienceDaily¹

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2We often put off decisions because uncertainty feels bad

The problem. Many of us put off big choices, even when we know they matter. Waiting can feel easier, but the choice keeps weighing on us.

What they found. Psychologist Ryan Warner argues that people often delay decisions because uncertainty feels bad. Putting a choice off brings quick relief, but the stress lasts longer. He suggests narrowing it down to two or three realistic options. He also suggests aiming for a good-enough choice and taking one small step, such as a phone call.

“Am I waiting because I need more information, or because I'm concerned that I will make the wrong decision?”

Ryan C. Warner, Ph.D., psychologist and Psychology Today columnist

Try this. Pick one decision you have delayed and take one small step today, like a short call or a message to a friend.

How sure is this? This is one psychologist's column that cites a single 2024 study. It offers useful ideas, not proof.

Source: Psychology Today²

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3Fight nights will fund free boxing classes for women after abuse

The problem. Domestic abuse is common, and rebuilding confidence afterwards can be hard. The World Health Organization estimates that nearly 1 in 3 women worldwide have faced physical or sexual violence.

What they found. Fight Forward offers free boxing classes for women affected by domestic abuse. Nobody has to spar (practise fighting a partner), and women train at their own pace. Just under 40 women have finished its programme. A fight night in London on 28 November hopes to fund 40 to 60 more free places.

“This is a consensual environment. It's controlled, you have choice, and it's a way of releasing tension.”

Amja, Fight Forward participant

Try this. Choose one gentle way to move today, like a short walk at your own pace. Notice how it feels.

How sure is this? This is a news story, not a study. The group is gathering feedback, but no results are shared yet.

Source: Positive News³

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