Does Cannabis Help or Hurt My ADHD?

Dear Stoner: Does smoking weed help or hurt ADHD? I have ADHD and have been smoking for a while; usually it's helpful, but sometimes I stall out and can't accomplish anything.
Sushi Dan

Dear Sushi Dan: The jury's still out from a scientific perspective, and anecdotal information and user stories are all over the map. Current studies and scientific reviews still rightfully say that more research is needed, but one 2020 project found that adults with ADHD took fewer prescription medications when taking CBN. A 2022 survey suggested that people with ADHD who used cannabis self-reported benefits, but that's not exactly a peer-reviewed study.

On the other end, there are plenty of studies that point to connections between cannabis use and adult ADHD, and that using cannabis hurts brains dealing with ADHD.
Personal stories range from pot use causing more anxiety and stronger ADHD symptoms to creating a relaxed and happier mind. As with most medical problems, it seems to largely come down to you and the strain you're smoking. As someone who's never been diagnosed with any sort of attention or hyperactivity disorder, I experience cannabis highs that go all over the place in terms of energy, focus and relaxation.

But you have to consider your own brain's chemistry and any other medications you're taking, and how cannabis could alter that. Personal journals can help establish a baseline, and it's not a bad idea to see how your ADHD responds to a weed break. Whatever you do, keep your doctor in the loop (if they're cool enough), and tell them about your cannabis habits.

Herbert Fuego is the alias of a longtime Westword staffer. Send him questions through [email protected]