“Marijuana and the ADHD Brain” [Video Replay & Podcast #288]

Access the video replay, listen to the podcast episode (#288), and download the slide presentation for this ADHD Experts webinar originally broadcast on February 26, 2020.

ADHD Expert: Roberto Olivardia, Ph.D. Verified Updated on August 28, 2023
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Episode Description

Individuals with ADHD carry a higher risk for substance use problems. Cannabis is one of the most widely abused substances among people with ADHD; studies show that those diagnosed with the condition are more likely to develop a Cannabis Use Disorder. One study found that 34% to 46% of those seeking treatment for cannabis dependence had an ADHD diagnosis.

Many parents and adults assume that cannabis is safe — even medicinal — for ADHD. These assumptions have been bolstered by the legalization of cannabis in more and more states. However, this is far from the truth, especially in young people. Cannabis carries lifelong psychological and physical consequences to the developing brain and body, and people with ADHD are especially vulnerable to its effects. Though marijuana use is a hotly debated topic, this webinar focuses on strong scientific studies and clinical examples to drive home the cannabis-ADHD connection.

Listen and learn from Roberto Olivardia, Ph.D., about:

  • The prevalence of cannabis use in ADHD groups
  • Why cannabis can appeal to an ADHD brain
  • Effects of cannabis on the developing ADHD brain
  • Distinguishing between proper pharmacology and self-medication
  • Treatment recommendations for people affected by ADHD and Cannabis Use Disorder

Watch the Video Replay

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Download or Stream the Podcast Audio

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More on Marijuana and ADHD from Dr. Olivardia:

Meet the Expert Speaker:

Dr. Roberto Olivardia is a clinical psychologist and lecturer in psychology in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. He maintains a private psychotherapy practice in Lexington, Massachusetts, where he specializes in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and Eating Disorders. He has spoken on numerous webinars and presents at many talks and conferences around the country. He currently serves on the Scientific Advisory Board for ADDitude, as well as the Professional Advisory Boards for Children and Adults with ADHD (CHADD), the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) and the National Association for Males with Eating Disorders. He is also a member of the ADDitude ADHD Medical Review Panel and a paid consultant for Understood.org.| See expert’s full bio »

Listener Testimonials

  • “Today’s presenter was excellent.  I would love to see him present again.”
  • “Excellent webinar. Critical timing as more and more states are legalizing weed and our kids are getting the idea that it is harmless, etc.  People need to wake up to what is happening to our youth!”
  • “This was a VERY informative and helpful webinar!  Would love an expanded version.”
  • “Great points with the research to back them up. Will be very helpful as I continue to educate my teen patients.”

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