Can CBD Help My ADHD?

I asked myself the same question. I'm no doctor. However, I've grappled with ADHD for years. From my childhood through college, grad school, a corporate career, and even entrepreneurship, the symptoms compounded with the increasing responsibilities.

ADHD has impacted my life in so many ways. The confidence I have in my abilities, the feeling of whether I belong, my overall self-esteem and self-worthiness. The severe ADHD over decades manifested itself into anxiety and depression, which is what ended up getting treated instead — the symptom, and not the root cause. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. 

It was only recently as I near my fourth decade of life that I was accurately diagnosed, despite years of being prescribed medications to treat anxiety and depression. While these conditions often accompany ADHD, they stem from it rather than being the underlying cause. 

 

You Are Not Alone in the ADHD Struggle

Women in particular are most often misdiagnosed with anxiety and depression, as ADHD can show up differently in female individuals compared to their male counterparts who were historically the primary subjects of study. Women over 30 represent a "lost generation" who have been frequently misdiagnosed, misunderstood, and mistreated under incorrect assumptions.

Individuals like us, who are neurodivergent, have more synapses firing in the brain than the average person. Processing this surplus of information and organizing it into clear and concise points can be challenging. Writing this post alone is challenging. Organizing my own thoughts often feels overwhelming and paralyzing. Does this resonate with you? That's okay. ADHD isn't a "disorder"; it's a superpower.

On my journey of finding clarity and focus, cannabis became an integral part of my daily wellness rituals. I am going to share with you some of the ways CBD may help those of us struggling with ADHD.

 

What Does CBD Do for ADHD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, operates as a potential aid in regulating neurotransmitters within the brain, notably dopamine and serotonin. Research suggests that CBD might influence these neurotransmitters' activity, contributing to improved regulation and transmission. In the case of ADHD, where dopamine and serotonin imbalances are often observed, CBD's interaction with the endocannabinoid system could help modulate these levels.

By doing so, CBD might assist in managing impulsivity, enhancing focus, and promoting a sense of calmness. While ongoing scientific investigations seek concrete evidence, anecdotal reports from individuals using CBD to manage ADHD symptoms highlight positive experiences in alleviating hyperactivity, improving attention span, and reducing anxiety associated with ADHD.

 

What CBD is Best for ADHD?

CBD comes in different varieties—full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate.

Full Spectrum CBD: Contains all the naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, including a trace amount of THC (below the legal limit). It harnesses the "entourage effect," where cannabinoids and terpenes work together, potentially enhancing the therapeutic benefits.

Broad Spectrum CBD: Similar to full-spectrum but with THC removed entirely, retaining other cannabinoids and terpenes. It offers potential benefits of the entourage effect without THC presence.

CBD Isolate: Pure CBD without any other compounds. While "pure" may sound nice at face value, however it's CBD alone without the benefits of supporting cannabinoids or terpenes. So we recommend opting for a full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD, preferably the former. 

 

How to Take CBD Oil for ADHD

CBD's like a versatile sidekick—drops under the tongue, capsules, topicals, or edibles. Fast absorption? Sublingual’s your go-to. Thinking about trying it? Check Organic Full-Spectrum CBD Oil or Organic Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil.

 

How Do I Dose CBD for ADHD?

Finding the right CBD dose to help manage your ADHD symptoms takes time to calibrate. It's a personalized journey, much like finding your favorite playlist. While there's no one-size-fits-all dosage, here are some ranges to kickstart your exploration:

Low Dosage (<10 mg): Start with a low dose to gauge your body's response. This range suits beginners or those with heightened sensitivity to CBD. It's like dipping your toes into the water before diving in.

Medium Dosage (10-25 mg): This mid-range suits many users seeking moderate relief. It's akin to finding the right volume setting—not too low, not too loud—just right.

High Dosage (25+ mg): Reserved for those needing stronger effects or with higher tolerances. This range isn't recommended for starters and often suits individuals with extensive experience or specific therapeutic needs. It's like turning up the volume for maximum impact.

Remember, individual factors like body weight, metabolism, and severity of symptoms can influence your ideal dosage. Start low, gradually increase, and listen to your body's cues.

Finding the right dose is like creating your personal elixur. Start slow, ramp it up until you feel that sweet spot. Your dose is as unique as you, babe. Our CBD Dosage & Timing Guide could be your go-to. You may also be interested in our post about CBD for Clarity and Focus. 

Have more questions about CBD and ADHD? Don't hesitate to reach out by dropping a comment below, shooting us a DM, or sending us a message at hello@jadecollaborative.com. We're in your corner, canna-bestie! 

 

The statements above have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. CBD is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any illness or ailment. Individual responses to CBD may vary, and it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your wellness routine, especially if you have specific health concerns or are taking medications.