Editor’s Note: The following is a personal account and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Always consult your physician before starting any treatment for your child.
When our son, Lucas, received an ADHD diagnosis, we were taken aback. We thought his rebellious behavior was merely typical childhood defiance, but it turned out to be more complex. Along with ADHD, he also had oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), a common dual diagnosis in boys facing mood and behavioral challenges. Our journey involved numerous therapies, medications, and evaluations, which left us feeling worn out.
My partner and I grappled with the decision to medicate our son. We are not anti-medication; rather, we seek a balance between conventional and alternative remedies. The thought of giving our young son a medication with potential for addiction was daunting, but we recognized the need for a strategy before he started first grade. Lucas struggled with impulse control and anger, often reacting explosively. We wanted to shield him from the stigma associated with mental health issues, as well as the biases present in the educational system. After much deliberation, we decided to start him on Adderall.
A year into his medication, a close friend suggested we look into CBD oil for Lucas. We had researched the benefits of CBD, or cannabidiol oil, and noted that many parents had positive experiences with it for their children with ADHD. CBD, while derived from the hemp plant, contains less than 0.3% THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, making it legal for children.
Although research on CBD’s effectiveness for ADHD is limited, some studies have shown promise regarding its impact on anxiety and epilepsy in kids. The growing acceptance of marijuana for medicinal purposes has contributed to a heightened interest in CBD oil as a potential treatment for various health conditions. We had heard of families successfully reducing or eliminating their children’s ADHD medications through CBD, and we were eager to explore its potential for our sons.
To begin, we purchased a low-grade CBD oil from a grocery store, taking a cautious approach. From the first dose, we noticed a subtle calming effect. That night, both Lucas and his younger brother, Ethan, slept soundly for the first time in months. While their behavioral issues persisted, we didn’t expect a miracle overnight. After further exploration, we invested in a reputable CBD product line, acquiring both sublingual oils and gummies with varying concentrations.
Given the limited research and the individualized nature of dosage, we started with a small amount. Lucas received one dropper of the 500 mg sublingual oil, and after a month of adjustments, we found the right dosage for each child. Lucas now takes 2 vials of the 500 mg three times daily, while Ethan takes 2 vials of the 1000 mg twice a day.
We knew we had discovered the correct dosage when we began to see significant improvements in their daily lives. Although Lucas is still on Adderall for focus, we have managed to lower his dosage. CBD oil has made a remarkable difference for our family. It has not only benefited our children but has also helped my partner and me manage anxiety and stress. We have experienced a newfound sense of balance and tranquility, enabling us to better support our kids.
Improvements We Noticed
With the combination of therapeutic support, a reduced dose of Adderall, and CBD oil, our children have experienced:
- Improved sleep patterns
- More stable moods
- Healthier eating habits
- Fewer tantrums and quicker de-escalation
- Enhanced focus at school leading to academic progress
- Stronger relationships with friends and siblings
As a family, we are committed to pursuing a life filled with adventures, love, play therapy, and of course, CBD oil. Although we have challenges ahead, we now possess the tools to navigate our journey with hope and optimism that we previously lacked.
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Summary: Our experience with CBD oil for our sons diagnosed with ADHD and ODD has been transformative. Starting cautiously with CBD led to significant improvements in their behavior and overall well-being. While Lucas continues to use Adderall, the combination of medication and CBD oil has provided our family with a much-needed balance.