Effects of Cannabidiol (CBD) on the Treatment of Anxiety and Depression in Adults: A Literature Review ^†

Introduction: Anxiety and depression are among the most prevalent mental disorders globally, significantly impacting public health, quality of life, and individuals’ overall functioning. Due to the inadequate therapeutic responses or adverse side effects experienced by many patients, cannabidiol (CBD), a principal compound of the Cannabis sativa plant, has emerged as a promising agent in the management of psychiatric conditions. This research aims to evaluate CBD’s anxiolytic and antidepressant properties, as well as its safety profile, addressing the limitations of current treatments for these prevalent mental disorders. Methodology: Four studies were incorporated into the research, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses from 2020 to 2025. The primary databases utilized in the search were The Cochrane Library, Embase.com, and PubMed, using the descriptors “cannabidiol,” “anxiety,” and “depression.” Only studies published in Portuguese, English, and Spanish were included. A total of eight studies with 316 participants were identified and analyzed. Results: CBD demonstrated strong positive effects in terms of reducing symptoms associated with anxiety across various disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder) with Hedges’ g = −0.92, although the optimal dosage remains unknown. However, regarding depression, there is insufficient data to support CBD as a reliable treatment for major depressive disorder. Conclusions: This bibliographic study underscores the effectiveness of cannabidiol as a primary treatment for anxiety-related disorders, while limited evidence is available concerning its efficacy in treating depression. This distinction is likely due to the different brain regions affected by these conditions and their varied responses to cannabidiol.