Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex neurological condition associated with restlessness, trouble concentrating, and impulsivity. Many people with ADHD report disrupted sleep and may also live with mental health conditions, such as anxiety.
Medical cannabis may be prescribed for individuals with ADHD looking to address some of these symptoms, when other therapies have failed.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects people’s behaviour. ADHD can impact the brain’s ability to regulate attention and focus.
It is usually diagnosed in the early stages of life, however, there are a growing number of individuals who are being diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood. ADHD in adults is usually diagnosed after an assessment with an ADHD specialist, following a referral by a GP.
The main symptoms of ADHD are struggling to pay attention, being overactive, and being impulsive.
ADHD symptoms are commonly grouped into two main categories:
People who have ADHD may suffer with either or both types of symptoms. ADHD is usually diagnosed in children, but an individual can be diagnosed at any age. To make a diagnosis, even in adulthood, it is necessary to demonstrate that the symptoms have been present by the age of 12.
It’s also necessary that these symptoms are present in more than one environment (i.e. both home and work). Individual symptoms of ADHD are very common in the general population; however, it is only once an individual meets all these diagnostic criteria that a diagnosis can be made.
ADHD treatment will vary depending on the type and severity of symptoms. Some people with ADHD don’t need any treatment whilst others may require sessions to help manage specific symptoms, counselling, or prescription medication. It’s not uncommon for individuals with ADHD to utilise various forms of treatment throughout their lives.
Medication can help those with ADHD and types of medication can include:
ADHD can influence attention, activity levels, and impulse control. These symptoms may affect how someone manages daily tasks, plans or organises, and responds to their environment. For some people, this can make certain aspects of everyday life feel more challenging.
People with ADHD are also more likely to struggle with mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety.
View our FAQ’s section and learn more about all the conditions that can be treatable with medical cannabis.
