Hi! I helped run the biggest medical cannabis club on the East Coast, and I can probably shed a little insight into this for you...
While cannabis is effective for many in the treatment of their PTSD (sure helps me with mine), it is not the same for everyone. In fact, not every strain has the same effects even in me.
Some people just inherently get uncomfortable on cannabis, which obviously wouldn't do wonders when mixed with the anxiety symptoms of PTSD. But a lot of people also have the misfortune of only being able to get cannabis sativa sativa (aka Sativa) versus the other subspecies cannabis sativa indica (aka Indica).
Inside of marijuana there are over a hundred known chemicals called cannabinoids, and each strain (ie kush, skunk, etc) has its own unique balance of the mixture. It is the unique blend of chemicals that gives each strain its own distinctive effects.
Sativas tend to be packed with high THC content and less of the other cannabinoids, and are often known for being "heady, racey, energizing". Sometimes (and most dangerously for PTSD sufferers) smoking a sativa can leave you clear headed (ie no visual changes) but bring about perception/thought changes. Not being able to correlate the unusual or anxious feelings with a visual change makes it hard to tell what you really feel and what is just the cannabis.
Indicas are often higher in the other cannabinoids, especially CBD and CBN. They are known for the heavier/body effects. While every person can react differently (and sometimes even opposite the norm), indicas are the ones that will help with nausea, relaxation, and sleep issues. Also great on the appetite. They are typically relaxing and if given the option I would strongly advise a PTSD sufferer to lean towards indicas.
At the compassion club, I made a point to familiarize myself with the different conditions each people had and their personal reactions to different varieties. People with PTSD were always flagged as an extra precaution so that volunteers would not make the mistake of dispensing a strain that would enhance the individual's symptoms.
There were some who preferred the sativas though, but every Human has a unique body chemistry. There are no guarantees how you will react to anything but if you are considering trying it for the first time, make sure it is a safe place and with a loved/trusted person. Somebody who you trust could help you in a trigger situation.
Just don't let it become your solution. Like all medication, it should be part of a balance healing plan and not just a crutch.
Please feel free to contact me any time regarding info on medical cannabis, and I will keep an eye out for posts. While I had to leave that industry for stress reasons, I still have a Canadian federal license to consume and cultivate my own cannabis and will do my best to help you out. It's the least I can do, this community has already given me so much!!
Edit: Please be mindful of your local laws and such. I am not advising or endorsing any illegal activities. The ethics and practicalities of your situation are something you must make yourself aware of. My knowledge and advice is more based on the properties of the plant, not your local legal system.
