Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts millions worldwide. Symptoms affect focus, impulsivity, and energy levels, creating challenges in nearly every area of life, such as school, work or social relationships.
Different Types of ADHD
Depending on the most dominant symptom manifestations, the disorder is divided into three subtypes: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined.
Inattentive ADHD is marked by issues with sustained attention, memory, and task completion, while hyperactive-impulsive ADHD shows excessive energy and impulsive actions. Combined ADHD includes symptoms from both types. However, most experts consider ADHD a spectrum rather than a fixed set of symptoms. The strength and frequency of the symptoms may vary from person to person or change over the course of one’s life.
Because of the highly individual nature of ADHD, diagnosing the disorder involves comprehensive assessments by mental health professionals, who thoroughly evaluate behavior patterns and other related factors.
Diagnostic Approaches
ADHD symptoms generally first appear in early childhood or during puberty and often persist into adulthood, manifesting uniquely across different age groups. In children, signs like difficulty sitting still, frequent fidgeting, extensive daydreaming and trouble listening are often observed. Adults, however, may experience disorganization, forgetfulness, and impulsivity, often impacting their work performance and social life.
Clinicians diagnose ADHD by analyzing patterns across settings—such as home, school, or work—and gathering insights from parents, teachers, or partners. Tools like the DSM-5 criteria and behavioral rating scales help identify and confirm symptoms, which must have been present for at least six months for a diagnosis. The diagnostic process also includes a number of medical tests to rule out other underlying causes such as hypothyroidism or a brain tumor.
Conventional ADHD Treatment Methods
Options for ADHD treatment traditionally combine medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Stimulant medications like methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines (Adderall) are commonly prescribed, as they improve focus and impulse control by enhancing dopamine levels in the brain. Non-stimulants, such as atomoxetine, are alternative medications for those who may not tolerate stimulants well.
Behavioral therapy is another essential component, especially for younger individuals, as it equips them with strategies to manage symptoms effectively. Techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) help individuals develop better coping mechanisms, organize their daily routines, and improve social skills. Adults may benefit from additional strategies like coaching, mindfulness practices, and exercise to support concentration and emotional regulation. While these treatments have been proven to be rather effective, some individuals continue to struggle with residual symptoms, leading to an interest in alternative treatments – including cannabis.
The Emerging Interest in Cannabis for ADHD
As medical cannabis becomes more accessible, its potential benefits for ADHD are also gaining attention. Cannabis contains compounds like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) that interact with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, which plays an important role in regulating mood, memory, and attention. While recreational cannabis use can sometimes impair focus and short-term memory, researchers are investigating whether specific cannabis compounds in therapeutic doses might alleviate certain ADHD symptoms without these side effects.
Current studies suggest that CBD, in particular, could have therapeutic effects on ADHD-related symptoms, especially anxiety and hyperactivity, by promoting relaxation without intoxication. For instance, individuals with combined ADHD often experience heightened anxiety, which exacerbates inattention and impulsivity. CBD’s calming effects may help manage this anxiety, potentially allowing for more effective focus.
How Cannabis Components Affect ADHD Symptoms
THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, can sometimes alleviate impulsivity and mood swings in ADHD, especially in those who do not respond well to traditional medications. However, high doses of THC can impair attention and cognitive functions, making low or microdoses more suitable.
In contrast, CBD is non-intoxicating and may offer benefits for managing hyperactivity and anxiety without hindering cognitive functions. Patients and clinicians both report that microdosing or using CBD-dominant strains can help stabilize mood, reduce restlessness, and improve attention span, although these effects vary across individuals.
Other Alternative Treatment Approaches: Neurofeedback and Dietary Changes
But the medicinal use of cannabis is not the only alternative treatment approach that is currently being studied. Especially the impact of nutrition on ADHD symptoms and the use of neurofeedback have increasingly become a subject of researchers’ interest:
Dietary Changes
Multiple studies suggest that dietary adjustments may help in managing ADHD symptoms. Especially omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and iron have been associated with better cognitive function and attention in people with ADHD. Avoiding artificial additives and sugar has also shown benefits for some individuals, particularly children.
Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback, a form of biofeedback, helps individuals gain control over their brain waves through real-time monitoring and feedback. This therapy has been used in clinical trials to improve focus, impulse control, and cognitive function in people with ADHD – with promising results.
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