Medical Marijuana and ADHD

ADHD is short for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and it affects over 8% of all children. In fact, it’s the most common mental disorder in children currently. Those with ADHD struggle to pay attention for long periods, have problems with impulsivity, and usually experience hyperactivity. All of this together creates an almost impossible environment for someone to sit still and focus in. Thus, for children with ADHD, things like school — studying, homework, sitting all day — is a much more challenging task than it may be for those without the disorder.

There are ways to treat ADHD, especially in children. It is important to note that ADHD does affect a small percentage of adults, as well. So, the disorder isn’t exclusive to young children; it just primarily presents during this time. In terms of treatments, you can turn to behavioral therapies, medications, and even lifestyle changes. All of these choices can help regulate ADHD-caused behaviors and allow for a calmer, more focused mindset. 

In children, the symptoms of ADHD are going to be unique to each diagnosis. However, there are a few common symptoms of ADHD to look out for if you think your children may have the disorder. These symptoms include the following: 

• • Inability to sit still
  • Excessive talking or making noise
  • Excessive fidgeting
  • Lack of concentration or focus
  • Lack of impulse control 
  • Interrupting conversations
  • Lack of organization
  • Little to no concept of danger

ADHD is problematic because, for children, some of these behaviors are perfectly normal. However, when these behaviors continue, and your child doesn’t improve or learn from them, you should start being concerned. If your kiddo is demonstrating any of the above symptoms, have a genuine conversation with your doctor. 

When it comes to finding medical marijuana for ADHD, which is better: sativa or indica strains?

Sativa strains tend to be extra stimulating, offering boosts in mood and creativity. These types of products tend to be best for those who are generally on the calmer side and struggle to find motivation. Because of this, most people wouldn’t recommend super-strong sativa strains for those with ADHD. Instead, indicas and hybrids tend to be the best option.

Indica strains are quite different from sativas. Indicas’ properties are much more soothing and sedative than sativas, keeping you more focused on one task at hand — instead of many. This makes indicas ideal for those with ADHD. They’re calming, gentle, and incredibly supportive. Many people find that their overall stress and anxiety levels are lower, and they can fully relax. For those who struggle to wind down when needed, or if you cannot sit still, turn to an indica for its “in-da-couch” characteristics.

However, at the end of the day, everybody’s preference is different. Some may find that their ADHD best reacts to sativa strains, while others may fall in love with a balanced hybrid. You just have to try it for yourself to see what your body enjoys most.

9 Pound Hammer: This heavy-hitting indica strain is a hybrid of Gooberry, Hells OG, and Jack the Ripper. It has an earthy flavor profile with notes of lemon and pine, and is known to be intensely relaxing. Its medical benefits are useful for treating stress, depression, insomnia, pain relief, muscle spasms, and even ADHD.

Afghan Kush: A pure indica strain originating from Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush mountains. It has a pungent aroma with notes of skunk and earthiness that create a pleasant smell when smoked. It’s known to produce calming effects that soothe both the mind and body and is beneficial for treating anxiety, depression, nausea as well as ADHD symptoms.

Granddaddy Purple (GDP): This potent indica strain was created by crossing Purple Urkle x Big Bud strains together. It has a sweet grape aroma and a musky flavor profile with hints of berries and grapes when smoked. Its powerful sedative effects can help suppress restlessness in patients suffering from ADHD while also helping reduce headaches and chronic pain.

Northern Lights: Another strong indica strain created by crossbreeding Thai Sativa x Afghani Indica strains together. It emits an earthy sweet aroma that carries to its taste when smoked or vaporized which can be very helpful for calming down racing thoughts associated with ADHD symptoms without feeling overly drowsy or lethargic afterwards.

Golden Goat: A hybrid cross between Hawaiian Romulan X Island Sweet Skunk strains that produces relaxing effects known to have calming properties on the mind as well as the body which can be helpful for relieving stress in those suffering from ADHD symptoms . Its flavor profile includes sweet lemony undertones making it pleasant to smoke or vape for those looking for herbal relief from their conditions.

Unfortunately, no state in the US explicitly states ADHD as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get a medical marijuana card for ADHD. Let’s explain.

ADHD comes with varying symptoms that can be debilitating. Many states in the US allow the use of marijuana for debilitating medical conditions that hinder your quality of life. Because of this, it’s entirely possible to utilize the symptoms of your ADHD to get a medical marijuana card in your state. As long as you sit down with a qualified physician and explain your ailments and complications, there’s a good chance you can still obtain an MMJ card. 

If you’re confused as to how all this works, don’t be! We’ll explain even more down below, illustrating just how straightforward Elevate Holistics makes this process.