Medical Marijuana For Autism and ADHD | S3 E1

[@kaitlinhillier]

I'm autistic and used alcohol to deal with social anxiety for 20 years. Finally quit by switching to weed. 2 years sober now. It saved my life.

[@batintheattic7293]

Bravo. It makes such a difference. The only problem for me (full disclosure - I've started having a splash of rum in hot chocolate but it's maybe once every three days) with no longer being a heavy social drinker is that I can no longer make myself be social with the people I used to have to drink to be social with. Bit of a shock, for me, probably a massive source of dismay for those I used to enjoy a session with. I haven't told them I don't enjoy their society any more. Least said - soonest mended! Did you know you were drinking to ease your social anxiety? Also, did YOUR relationship landscape change when you stopped drinking?

[@barefootjamie143]

I'm in a similar boat and I love sobriety and recovery and the self respect I've gained

[@joshhoux7923]

I just quit alcohol this past summer, 6 months now. I am 50yrs old now and drank alcohol heavily since I was a teenager, it was the only way I could socialize with other people. I started smoking flower about 5 years ago and it's been a fantastic mental journey. I can hardly believe how much of a positive impact it has had on my mental well being. Through the journey I have been trying to figure out what is wrong with me because I'm obviously different than other people and it shows on a regular basis. I was getting ready to start microdosing mushrooms because I also have a couple TBI's that have had some detriment to me as well. The flower opened my mind enough that I haven't needed the mushrooms. Every day has been an experiment for me to see if I can cope with other people better, I'm not good with them when I'm not smoking or drinking. I am more accepting and a better listener as I have always had PLENTY of empathy for people. Anyways, the journey has led me to finally realizing that I'm on the Autism Spectrum. More on the Aspergers side. It has been good, sorry for the ramble. It's been so fkng hard at times. Peace and Love, and I hope more people can feel I do now.

[@pattyofurniture]

​@@joshhoux7923I'm a bit older than you are and was able to give up a forty years dependency on alcohol and tobacco because of cannabis. Someone suggested cannabis for my PTSD symptoms about a decade ago and it changed my life.

[@talkingonthespectrum]

Yesss! Similar story here, autistic but also struggle with chronic pain. Used alcohol for years, swapped to weed, 600 days sober in a few days

[@AboveAverageGamer1]

Cannabis is how my undiagnosed self copes with social interaction. The only way I am not on edge or defensive the whole interaction. It may make me forgetful, but it makes me able to tolerate gossip/allistic interaction and contribute in a positive way. Love the channel

[@ThomasHenley]

Great to hear your experiences, it does seem to be beneficial to a lot of neurodivergent people I’ve talked to, bar maybe a few people who can’t tolerate it

[@TwinklingofaneyeLoveStoryofGod]

ASHWAGANDHA is amazing as well

[@CoolCatLady8]

I feel this 10000000%

[@lechini4827]

It let's me sleep somewhat even tho I might be getting a bit more anxious. Legal in canada.

[@johnrice1943]

Same

[@chinatosinthiti3076]

Been a stoner for 3-4 years before knowing I'm autistic, the people who I got high with just let me move body parts randomly, talked and write down my feelings, and yoga. Then it comes to my realization of being autistic and unpacking trauma then things come full circle. Growing up suppressing my own feelings/ stimming on top of being autistic is very detrimental to myself and those who I want to have a social connection with. Cannabis and the ability to be more aware of my feelings is a game changer!

[@MsTammi125]

💗💫

[@saraiblue9553]

Yes. It’s like it unlocked my unmasked self.

[@cravinghibiscus7901]

Low key doing yoga and working with the breathing pattern anxiety, not against is huge. Giving you the realization that "holy shit you are in a constant state of panic and alertness" so you can actually come down from it, instead of staying locked away in your mind far far away in an intellectual prison cell.

[@chinatosinthiti3076]

@@cravinghibiscus7901 My yoga has always been low-key since I'm not a very flexible person and also having spine and hip issues that I have to be careful of.

[@steveneardley7541]

I am 75 and have been smoking since I was 18. The immediate effect back then was that it lowered my general anxiety. A lot of things that I used to agonize over just didn't seem all that important. Negatively, that included college courses. But I got through, and don't regret any of it. I did have experiences of social paranoia, and a few serious scares, but overall it has helped my life in a lot of ways. Coming out of a childhood in the Fifties, which was so unbelievably uptight, the initial experiences with marijuana were so liberating that I felt that this was the answer to life. I still consider it a wonderful thing.

[@Avi_Z.]

👍. 68 years old here. Started at 14. It has been a life saver on so many levels.

[@JericHouse]

Similar experience here however the benefit of being in a card legal state has made almost as much difference as weed itself has because I can now talk to all of my doctors openly and I don't get frowns or negative recommendations I get real conversations. I can go into certain stores and talk to them openly and get answers to things and try different strains and things that give more help because of the access & the control in this current modern world. I had no idea how much of weed paranoia was based on legal stigma. I haven't felt paranoia after medicating in over 7 years. I'm hearing other people's medical stories that people used to be afraid to share.

[@neridafarrer4633]

Neurodivergent "2e" AuDHDer here. I have had a LOT of experience with Cannabis and a bit with other psychedelics. I started smoking pretty heavily from 16-17 on and off, but mainly on, until the last 12 years, I gave up due to stress over the legal implications and inconsistency of available product. I have started again, but not smoking it, eating it a few nights a week, for sleep and neuro healing. I am a late diagnosed autistic woman with a diagnosis of ASD2, ADHD combined types, and before that complex PTSD. I am "gifted" and higher than average IQ. Cubensis fungi and Cannabis have probably saved my life. I have 7 children and 2 grandchildren now. I am a musician, peer support, advocate, writer and artist. Thank you for this wonderful information! It is helping me destigmatize myself and my "stoner" status!

[@fomoran]

Cubensis? Is that common enough these days... I dont want to show my ancient self medication history but apart from a brief bloom of availability when there was a legal grey area for fresh mushroom. S it was a total pain to get hold of for me when I could indulge. If you find it therapeutic I'd love to have nay links you might be willing to throw my way. Not to say ill try to reconnect to that life Just interested on how others might be structuring use into their health regime

[@fomoran]

Just read up on it for the first time since my wilder days and it cubesis being a bruised blue and taken in a certain way might have meant that I could have been unknowingly complicating things by hunting down a south American connect with the associated ritualised practices

[@AboveAverageGamer1]

@@fomoran if in the usa, you can buy cubensis spores, you can even innoculate and grow them off a substrate. It's just illegal to "harvest" them. So if you decide to grow your own, don't tell anyone and keep it hidden and you'll get tons more for the fraction of cost and less head ache dealing with drug dealers/feds

[@AWSMcube]

​@@fomoranI've never grown them myself but a couple of my friends have. According to them, it's pretty easy, there are plenty of tutorials online. Buying the spores is legal (in 47 states) too, as they do not contain any psilocybin/psilocin, which are the actual chemicals that are banned. I've also heard that Sporeworks is where they get their spores

[@catherinejames2734]

Your story is incredibly like my own. I’ve started to use it again recently because it helps me so much . I also have CPTSD as well as autism. I have a hyperactive brain so it helps regulate that as well as the benefits for pain. I’m also an artist.

[@jombii-7090]

Without weed my mind is a mess. My thoughts are so loud and fast, weed tones it down drastically

[@dense_and_dull]

Yep, same here. It helps immensely with the constant flow of thoughts.

[@loverainthunder]

Same! And it allows me to stop certain thoughts and switch to other thoughts. Big relief.

[@urbandiscount]

Yeah. This too.

[@aiodensghost8645]

There are times when I really want to act on some of the self-destructive impulses I have and weed helps to distract me long enough not to

[@celestemetcalfe3527]

I’m a 24 hour a day Neurodivergent stoner I will not have it any other way 🌈🕊

[@debbie3630]

My Son has ADHD, Autism, depression, anxiety and Tourette’s in the form of motor tics, he not long ago started medicinal cannabis and it really helps to calm his anxiety down, slows him down to be able to process information better without being argumentative, he just seems to be a more balanced person and can sleep better, with a psychologists help now, he will improve one day at a time to be able to function enough to be able to cope with relationships, work, and have a more productive life, it will take a while and worth doing the work, he deserves more understanding people in his life, and a good quality of life, i didn’t approve of medications or cannabis at first, but now i swear by it, it has saved my son in so many ways, to the point of saving him from wanting to die.

[@batintheattic7293]

It must be really hard/awkward/uncomfortable the first time you tell your child to try cannabis!! :D I'm guessing there's a developmental age threshold? You did mention 'work' rather than 'playgroup' or kindergarten!! I'm glad he's okay, now, and that he's starting to enjoy life. Give him a cuddle - from the internet :) .

[@MamaSea888]

Hey Debbie! Have you heard of Dr. Natasha Campbell? Her book called Gut and Psychology syndrome is amazing, she cured her son of autism. I’ve been giving my son Vit D and High dose magnesium, it helps with depression and anxiety plus a host of other symptoms. Cannabis is the only thing that helps him as well. Wishing you the best of luck 💚

[@debbie3630]

@@MamaSea888 Thank you for your advice, I will try the vitamin D & Magnesium, yes i believe diet has a lot to do with his well being as well, which can change a lot due to what mood he is in, I have to remind him to eat at times or make food for him so he will eat 🌸

[@debbie3630]

@@batintheattic7293 He started cannabis himself, he tried cannabis in his teens, he said he felt better on it, so we got prescribed medicinal, it still helps now, but can be addictive and expensive, thank you for your cuddle, you are very thoughtful and caring and you are much appreciated 😘

[@theautisticpage]

I am a 53 year old autistic. I use mmj every day. I am not a stoner by any means. It helps my brain to slow down and helps regulate may emotions as I have alexithymia. P.S. the linktree link does not work. I don't know how many neurodivergents have told me they feel "normal" when using cannabis. I would love to talk about my cannabis use and also about how my Autistic son got on cocaine and committed suicide at 22.

[@AngelCoyoteMusic]

I am so sorry for the loss of your son. Thank you for speaking out.

[@debbie3630]

@@AngelCoyoteMusichow devastating that must of been for you, i’m so sorry to hear that, my heart goes out to you as a mother, cannabis has saved my son from wanting to commit suicide, he still struggles with big emotions which i am getting a psychologist for, our children suffer in silence with Autism, and don’t understand themselves what is going on with them, and it’s to be taken seriously by the professional field more than ever now, i won’t give up on getting the best help for my son and think of your son in doing it for him as well, his legacy will live on, bless you and much love, peace and healing to you 🥰

[@AliciaGuitar]

Dr Tony Attwood also had an autistic son who passed away from addiction. He is a bit of a crusader to spread awareness for the problem of addicted autistics so others might get help. You might find support there. He has YT videos discussing it. Condolences.

[@TarkMcCoy]

OK, who is blazing right now? I got a bowl of Wedding Cake here...

[@ThomasHenley]

Is that a strain of 🍃?

[@dense_and_dull]

​@@ThomasHenleyYes indeed.

[@Fwootgummi]

A very good one. I used to work for a production facility that would occasionally give out free products to their employees and that was one of my favorites along with Do Si So and Mendo Cheese. Strain names are so out of pocket, sometimes I just scroll through menus just to read the names without purchasing anything.

[@cherylroberts5100]

Have train wreck here 🎉

[@shanechang2015]

I'm 55 and only recently realized that I'm autistic. Most of my adult life I abused alcohol, until I found cannabis. Now I get to live a much healthier life.

[@cheyennetilleman1832]

I’m happy they’re researching this more. I discovered i’m autistic and have adhd about a year ago but I use cannabis for 4 years already, never did anything else than that, i tried smoking when I was 15 in a social environment and that wasn’t it for me. 4 years ago I tried every kind of medication to sleep but nothing helped and that’s how I started. I never thought I would smoke but to me it’s a very helpful tool to stay sane and calm, my anxiety goes through the roof and it’s the only thing that really helps me. I keep it hidden for most of people just because the stereotypical judgment that comes with it. So yeah loved this conversation, it has been my secret holy grail for the last years and it’s been very clear to me that this plant saves a lot of neurodivergent minds

[@LMsfa4591]

I’m 70, autistic, dyslexic, adhd, I was taking cannabis for panic attacks and found an amazing side effect, Cannabis calms my brain and 95% of the time I can read or talk to someone with out stammering it’s just before the high so people don’t know I’ve taking anything. It helps me when Im overwhelmed or having a meltdown at that point I get away from everyone and I have to take a lot more cannabis strangely enough I don’t get that high, it has kept me out of the emergency room for 5 years now, I truly wish I would have known about this 65 years ago.

[@tomc8929]

I am autistic and didn't find out about my autism until I was 64. I started smoking as a teen in the 70s and immediately felt relaxed and more social. I told my doctor I smoked and explained how it effects me. She said it was fine and understood the benefits. It also calmes my brain down. (ADD). I live in Massachusetts so it's easy to get. I'm finding so many people my age 68, are smoking. Cannabis is definitely a medicine and it works well for me. Great video. It really hit home.

[@andythompson7631]

I am 3 months into medical cannabis prescriptions. I have bought the vape recommended and take a very open minded approach to this. Broke my own stigmas and have got my head around it being a class 2 controlled drug now, rather than illegal. On its own its not a wonder drug. without a war chest full of survival strategies, continued learning about myself and other medications I have to say this os the first time I feel better able to manage emotional regulation. After a lifetime of anti depressants and other talking therapies i am late diagnosed ASD and ADHD this feels huge for me personally. Anyway.......advocate of open conversations around this. Thank you for this podcast, I'm enjoying the listen

[@micheals1992]

Do you find you only have to use it when you're having emotional struggles? I've been on the verge of suicide a couple of times, I smoked cannabis and managed to process my emotions, feelings and the reasons behind them and let them out (last time I cried my eyes out), I take notes of the causes and avoid them in future if possible. I live in the UK and cannabis is illegal, I smoked it in college and noticed some of the benefits. I don't use it recreationally. Cannabis is a last resort for me. It potentially saved my life on a couple of occasions. For me it's a temporary alleviation for alexithymia to make sense of my feelings.

[@andythompson7631]

I live in the UK also, I nused cannabis to help me 'survive' such dysregulated and intense emotions I'm not on prescription cannabis and realise it's not weed or no weed. There are over 800 strains. I have one for day time and a different one for night. I nice it everyday now and now feel better able to manage my intense emotions and daily highs amd lows. I am on medication for ADHD also amd am finding a better balance now. But I still know medication alone is never the answer.....its just taken til I'm 43 to start to learn about myself

[@andythompson7631]

Sorry, just read back.....i am on prescription cannabis

[@kellychuba]

It's a good source for some conditions, detrimental to others. @@micheals1992

[@el_chavez]

It’ll be class three here pretty soon✌️

[@BlackCoffeeee]

I can't do cannabis. I enter a hellscape of anxiety and paranoia. It's interesting that it suits some neurodivergents because any neurodivergent I've ever talked to about this says it does the same to them. I suppose it goes to show how we're all different.

[@mcxravin]

It's all about finding the right strain for you. Some strains make me anxious especially sativa dominant hybrids. I found that indica strains help me most.

[@micheals1992]

I'm the same as you. It makes me paranoid, causes anxiety and also worsens sensory issues. I did notice it temporarily alleviates alexithymia though. I use cannabis as a last resort. it's pulled me out of long term depression with suicidal thoughts a few times. It gives me the ability to discover my feelings and the causes of my depression. I've experimented allot, I use medicinal strains these days with a higher CBD content, although the THC is essential for the alleviation of alexithymia. The CBD counteracts the tendance of THC to cause paranoia and anxiety. It doesn't do much for me for sensory exacerbation from cannabis though so I need to be somewhere comfortable, controllable and with low levels of dust and other irritants. Back when I first started using cannabis recreationally though when I was about 17. I was (and still am) extremely sensitive to it, I hallucinated a couple of times due to peer pressure to smoke more then I was comfortable with. I quit cannabis for years after the knots on a wooden door melted into words, I looked away in panic as it started spelling but I'm sure it was forming into the words "kill, kill, kill". I don't even know why I ever smoked it again. I think I'd already seen some benefits but that day I realised mental illness can make you a prisoner inside your own mind. I was paranoid for months after that I could've caused schitzophrenia, that was 14 years ago now. I don't have any signs of schizophrenia, I think it was just a drug induced Psychosis. It was scary though!

[@kawag6356]

It has done that to me at different times in my life, it’s weird it can change for me. But when I smoke regularly that anxiety goes away a lot.

[@bouldermultirotor]

You might be missing out on a potentially helpful tool by lumping all cannabis together. I’ve found that the strain type, and method of consumption has a huge impact on the outcome. Medical dispensaries are a lifesaver.

[@DeborahAnnsuperversatile]

Depends on the strain for me too.

[@CamStubbs]

Undiagnosed... When I discovered weed in high school, it was an extremely profound experience. It was the first time in my life that I felt calm and could collect my thoughts. 38 now and any time I try to quit smoking I end up in a complete breakdown after a week or so. I do not enjoy using cannabis as it makes me feel less than however without it I truly am less than.

[@barefootjamie143]

Dr Shields I have to say THANK YOU!! As a fellow Massachusetts resident dealing with the archaic laws and medical field can be exasperating. Been using cannabis for cptsd, pain, creative sparks, and I find it difficult to find doctors willing to put away the pain killers. lolol I'm wondering if you have any ties to changing the caveman style healthcare on the Cape? They don't even provide UFE but they'll be thrilled to do a hysterectomy. This Mashpee, Falmouth and Hyannis area is failing us all. Thank you for taking care and sharing this enlightening conversation with us 🎉💚 💛 🧡 🩷 It's not easy to have a bunch of energy with chronic pain

[@theproductivecannabisconno7147]

I have been partaking in Cannabis for CPTSD, social anxiety, menopause, chronic arthritic pain in my knees and ankles, high blood pressure,undiagnosed ASD, and undiagnosed ADHD for almost 20 years. And not too long ago I made a KZbin video on this very subject on my The Productive Cannabis Connoisseur Channel. I also usually watch your videos on my other channel Darkmoon Doll. Thank you for doing this interview❤❤❤

[@loverainthunder]

Hi. I'm going to check out your channel. I suffer so much and just found cbd-g . Now I'm able to move around and sweep etc.

[@SteddyRecovery]

As a medical Marijuana patient living in recovery from alcoholism, as well as live with dual diagnosis, Cannabis has improved my over all well being one thousand fold for the better!

[@Thareldis]

Cool you chose this topic this time around. I was in research mode for a few weeks now when it came to cannabinoids and neurodivergence, because I began to smoke weed with 24 and now with 31 after my ASD and ADHD diagnoses, I was really curious if I became so much more able to connect with people and function in general, because of it. So far the video has given a lot of good answers to my questions I had.

[@greystripe96]

Thank you both for your candidness and commitment to bringing conversations like these out into the open. I’m autistic and people like you and conversations like these help me feel a sense of community and support for what I’m going through.

[@bongo9595]

thanks for doing this podcast. its great to see discussions about this from neurodivergent ppl. and as a UK medical patient it is the only thing that has ever worked for me

[@lorsmephisto5222]

Smoking weed helps a lot with my headspace. I have a lot going on in my head, it’s probably the most active part of my body. I tend to exhaust myself with it and it makes me unproductive. With weed my brain is quieter. I am more lethargic but if I keep momentum I can go longer before mentally exhausting myself

[@KimberleyB]

I could've written this. I'm so glad I caught this interview and the comments!

[@gonewithdacats]

I am self diagnosed audhd at 31. I started using cannabis at 27 after a lot of research. It’s saved my life. My family is against it, but I’ve grown to not care. It keeps me from self harm, it helps with my appetite cos my brain and body don’t sync up. It keeps me calm enough to grocery shop and interact with others. It’s helped me worked through a lot of trauma and reach my diagnosis. I monitor my usage closely and I so thankful for my cannabis Rx. I wasn’t a big alcohol drinker, but now I don’t use it at all. Not even socially

[@celestemetcalfe3527]

I’ve been smoking average of 30 years I’m only diagnosed with Neurodivergent special gifts in recent weeks….. My goodness I thought the whole human race could dream in colour and wake up happy…. I’m not wishing to be typical for any one to convert to their normal Now I know why It’s the divergent mind that I love most about this situation 🌈

[@jakehollomon3676]

I was a class doodler too, and thankfully it's always been well received being in the creative industry as an adult.

[@DeborahAnnsuperversatile]

I like this open conversation so much. I did not choose to be in pain, but if I use this, then I am not in pain. So very glad that it helps quality of life for me and others. I am 30. I take a low dose and still concentrate enough to parent my neuro-diverse daughter. I do not let her have any CBD or stronger gummies, just me. But it helps me be more patient even with her, and more focused and more relaxed with less anxiety in life also.

[@danielcomiskey4566]

Undiagnosed, former stoner here. I've quit for the past couple months (The longest break I've taken since I started at 16) because I wanted to see what life was like without it. Overall, I don't feel much different. The main thing I realize would happen when I got high was that my mask would fall off completely. I would go radio silent, and my friends would just assume I was too high to talk. In reality, I think I had not a lot to say to them because they weren't really friends, and I had nothing to relate to them. I can't decide if that was a relief or not because I didn't have to perform, but I also felt like it was a failure of my regular performance. It's hard to explain, really.

[@C4RYB34R]

Cannabis helps me connect with people.

[@thuggie1]

i took my exams in uni on cannabis i passed it was just enough to relax me

[@Ninphetamina]

Stoner since the age of 15, I had my diagnosis of autism at 36 and I am convinced that I am also ADHD. I think being a stoner saved me from isolation and social suffering. It also allowed me to have many friends. Now I believe that smoking relieves all my stereotypies and hyperactivity, allowing me to slow down and reflect more calmly on everything that disturbs my everyday life.

[@DrumWild]

Almost 60, diagnosed as Autistic in 2017, as well as MDD. Although I wasn't diagnosed until I was 53, I started using cannabis when I was 12. I'd use it on for a few years, then off for a year. Later in college, I incorporated mushrooms into my routine, using those once every 2-3 years. So, almost 48 years. I've been told it will destroy my life, but it hasn't, so maybe I need to give it some time. The thing that DOES cause me harm is my inability to secure and retain gainful employment. That has been a struggle since 1980. Haven't had gainful employment since 2016. Can't drink. It hurts my body too much.

[@alternativetentacles1760]

Pharmacognosy is making a comeback. When settlers in America were struggling with scurvy it was Native Americans who saved them by giving them Pine needle tea. My bipolar husband loves brewing it with Yerba Mate. We got a great cumin seed and olive oil ear infection remedy from immigrants settling down from the Middle East. They also introduced us to Saffron and Za’atar which are now favorites. I’m always drinking black and green tea too. It’s supposed to be good for the sensory sensitivity. There’s an awesome lecture from a neuroscientist from Dartmouth KZbin channel that motivated me to drink more tea. There’s a lot more but I could go on for hours. Definitely look into pharmacognosy options that work with your needs as an autistic. I’m autistic and have ADHD and don’t take pharmaceuticals because I can manage with diet and thc.

[@uniquechannelnames]

Crazy how it only takes 75mg of vit C to fend off scurvy

[@destiny2500]

On a moral scale I was never okay with the idea that I smoked marijuana but the past year I’ve been smoking regularly and it regulates the crap out of my emotions and helps me sleep and also eat (I’m hyposensitive which I also just learned so I don’t get hungry much😭 or when I do it just doesn’t bug me for a while I can go days without eating a thing) anyways weed also helped regulate that and I always feel like a shitty person because I do it secretly 😂 but I’m glad to read the comments and know that other neurodivergent mind’s benefit from this as well. It’s like when the whole world is going too fast that slows everything down enough for me to process and take in. I’ve been wanting to quit for a while and I couldn’t understand why I haven’t yet but now hearing this podcast and seeing everyone else’s positive experience doing this as well makes me feel more validated in my choice of doing it even though I shouldn’t need validation it’s more of a moral thing for me lol so thank you for this

[@toni5543]

im a long time user. i searched for answers for so long about what was wrong with me and doctors left me high and dry with low options. im adhd, autistic, and i have a chronic pain condition with EDS. weed is the reason im not dead x

[@UnhingedFairy]

Taking cbd and thc help me with my sensory issues and racing thoughts. It helps me focus and do tasks and also helps me get up and do things (I get pain and fatigue). I have adhd and autism.

[@UnhingedFairy]

I am also chronically ill (mainly autistic burnout)

[@batintheattic7293]

I, probably, should not talk about these things in the open.. Dry vaping home grown leaves (of a hybrid, heavier on the Sativa side, type) is a slow climb experience (I think - but the drop in Adreneline/Cortisol? is immediately noticeable). Calm and contentment (being okay with the world) starts at about the third fill and seems closely tied to the onset of the ghrelin and the massive increase in already quite powerful auditory sensitivity. So, pushing through the not so pleasant ghrelin release and the very pleasant auditory increase, then comes the ability to 'do tasks' (I think it's because the anxiety gets stripped from the tasks). And it happens in bursts. So, sitting there feeling okay one moment and then up on the feet and doing something that has been deferred for ages. Very sudden and now bereft of the 'but I need to do that thing before I do that thing' cycle. Finish that thing, sit down, have another vape and look around. Then back up and doing the next thing. I suppose that might be what you describe as 'focus'? The only thing is - that cycle can't be physically sustained forever. Need to sleep, sometimes. I take it you're eating the compounds? Do you know if the experience is different to dry vaping the dried leaves?

[@s0cializedpsych0path]

Another thing it did for me (and this is a little unhealthy... though, in my case, it helped) It gave me an excuse for the things I would miss, that I could explain, and was relatable..... "Oh, you're stoned... no wonder..." This was good FOR ME because I didn't have words for the difficulties I experienced.... and when I could find words, it was so unrelatable to others, that they would tell me, "You're making that up," or it's all in your head," or (in response to my reactions to off key singing/ out of tune instruments... I have auditory/tactile synesthesia) "you're just being a music snob" (I'm a musician and went to a performing arts school) When I hear a roomful of people singing Happy Birthday in a hundred different keys that don't exist, it's much like strapping me down and scraping nails across a chalkboard. It actually hurts. It causes tension throughout EVERY fiber of my being.... like down to the DNA. Side note* People always give me the "well, how about CBD?" while trying to bargain away my relief. NO! The psychoactive effect IS the benefit I get from Cannabis. Since the advent of vape pens, I have total control over how much I use. So, I use what you would call a micro dose. I'm on it 24/7, but I'm NEVER high!!! Why?!?!?! Because, unlike the accusations lobbed at me, I might suggest, I'm NOT chasing a high!!! I'm regulating..... The reason they can't understand this is solipsism. THEY get stupid and giggly on THC, so they assume I do, too. It's tough, because this is considered a disability, and I do need certain considerations, but I always have to fight for those considerations.... when people are even capable of giving them. I have a high IQ and can grasp concepts that most NTs can't. However, other things I am woefully ill-equipped for. However, because they can't talk down to me, they aren't willing to give me the consideration I require. They play this little game where it's like, "OK, if I have to be considerate of your disability, then I get to look down on you." Then, I do or say something that shows a superior intelligence, and they decide that I don't really "deserve" consideration.... not acknowledging the fact that the thing I show mastery of is a special interest, while the things I need consideration for are social. I have an EXTREMELY HIGH verbal IQ and have developed the patience to persistently explain myself to people, but most people ACTIVELY TRY to avoid coming to an understanding because once they understand, they can't justify disregarding it anymore. They prefer not to understand us, because the considerations we need are often so small, that they can't think of a good excuse not to grant them, but if they DO grant them, we excel and that ruins the idea that we're inferior, and acts as a blow to their ego.... because you don't fit into the boxes they try to jam you into.

[@Vipercobra88]

Cannabis has been extremely important with how I function in my day-to-day. I microdose daily, and my responses to sensory stimulus is decreased, interacting with people doesn't bother me as much, I'm more present and less in my head, and I'm not getting in my own way as much at work. The amount of work I'm able to do in an hour always surprises me when I'm on cannabis compared to when I'm not. My ADD and Asperger's symptoms are also decreased, which is a significant mental and emotional relief for me. The best thing is the I take an 2.5mg to 5mg edible per dose; significantly less than any medication I have taken, which has gone up to 30mg to 40mg. One edible takes care of my ADD, anxiety, and depression symptoms in one low dose. After self-medicating, I don't want to go back to pharmaceuticals.

[@hughman9975]

I smoked for a little over 2 years most days and it had a profound impact on me and was really helpful and helped me learn to unmask and process a lot of trauma stuff in safety blanket sort of way. But then it just turned into anxiety and I had to stop smoking entirely. But I think that was also part of the process in a way, coming off it and sort of tying off a lot of delayed emotional processing. I'm both happy to have done it and happy to be sober now

[@jjjooooey]

Medical cannabis is available in Australia. I was undiagnosed ASD and ADHD last year, aged 55. It helps me on many levels.

[@stephe1506]

Ahhh I am yet to be diagnosed but have been undecided about the benefits of an official diagnosis because I keep hearing "there isn't any medication for autism", but the members of my immediately family have diagnoses of one or both and I know indica heavy strains/being body stoned helps me and my anxiety n sleep issues so this is really worth thinking about thank you. I didn't know if they would be able to prescribe it for autism or adhd

[@ericwelvaert4780]

I'm autistic, and recently found out I also have ADHD (beginning of the year) and Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome (about 5 weeks ago). I'm 57 and never considered taking cannabis or psychedelics. People with both autism and ADHD seem to have more social problems than others with only autism or ADHD, and the same goes for people with combined ADHD and CDS. (according to ADHD and CDS specialist Russell Barkley) I have all three. A few days ago, I realized how my CDS prevents me from externalizing my autistic breakdowns, and I finally realized I carried 57 years of bottled up frustration.. Before, it was largely hidden by my alexithymia. After 30 years, I can say that, for me, psychotherapy is pretty useless. Now, I am researching the possible benefits of cannabis and psychedelics, things I despised my whole life. Your video was very informative.

[@albert.robles7]

Would love to try psychedelic drugs like LSD or the magic mushrooms, just don't know where or how I can get my hands on them. So rare in my area

[@katlinkate]

I've listened to many trip reports, books, talks on psychedelics before taking a proper dose myself. It's impossible to understand their effects on you unless you experience it directly. It does something physical to the brain, no amount of consuming information about them can even come close to trying them yourself.

[@userconspiracynut]

[adamsflakesx] Ships psychedelics

[@albert.robles7]

​@@userconspiracynut where to search??

[@albert.robles7]

Is it Instagram?

[@userconspiracynut]

Yeah, he has variety of stuffs like mushrooms, LSD, DMT even the chocolate bars

[@mannysynth1664]

I'm undiagnosed, but planning to get tested soon. I've been using for a long time and I find this helps me with sleep and just being a bit more empathetic. I really like how reliable weed is when the quality and types are consistent.

[@Lindsay-Makes-Videos]

35:26 omg this clip is such a great casual illustration of what autistic socializing is like

[@Avi_Z.]

I use cannabis for seizures, ADHD/bipolar and arthritis pain. Daily. The pharmaceutical drugs for these things are brutal!!! So I function so much better on pot. Feel better too. I do include CBD gummies when I can afford to.

[@paradisefound3536]

This is so interesting. I could listen to Dr Shields talk aaaaaall day

[@createwildescapes]

Thank you both for your courage. Listening to you has given me hope. And a smile.

[@justinwebb3117]

Absolutely brilliant content. Can't praise this stuff enuff!!

[@pincheguarito591]

IMHO as someone on the "spectrum" 1. All drug use, whether chronic or recreational is self medication for an underlying physical or mental pain. 2. Many neuro-divergent issues are caused by endocannibinoid deficiency. 3. Both ASD and ADHD are part of the same disorder. We just haven't figured out how to graph them together on paper.

[@johnstover4584]

I've been smoking for 25+ plus years and never needed doctor prescribed medicine. When I was younger they tried putting me on medicine. But they didn't realize I have sight issues with my Aspergers. So I get up alot to go and see what it is. So they always thought I was interrupting the class. But if they just had copies and let me hold what they are showing I wouldn't get up and move closer. Whenever a teacher took the time with extra copies I passed their class with atleast a B. Then I would be good. Marijuana is not for everybody. But it is for me and my family. It's legal in my state. I can go and order it online and get it delivered for free.

[@ThomasHenley]

Thanks for sharing your experiences John!

[@tjbarke6086]

Used to make me feel better, til I overdosed on an edible, and now I paranoid freakouts every time I'm coming down. I'll tell you something that did make me feel fantastic though, and that was psilocybin. So much so that I'm absolutely trying to get into one of my state's legalized psilocybin therapy centers.

[@uniquechannelnames]

Thats not uncommon. Almost all my stoner friends eventually stopped because they just started getting really anxious

[@SobrietyandSolace]

Sending this video to my weed nurse, we’re touched on this subject in our appointments and it’s interesting that autistic people also tend to gravitate towards certain strains/phenotypes to help with sensory processing, mood stabilisation etc

[@hajihabibiabudavid]

Thanks so much for making this. Made me want to open up about my use as well.

[@aiodensghost8645]

Autistic stoner here. I use it or risk having migraines that turn into seizures, plus I've noticed it's slowed my hyperactive self down at times.

[@s0cializedpsych0path]

I found cannabis when I was 10. It was 1995. I didn't know I was Autistic until I was 36. When I was a kid, the adults in my life had a cow about it. It was the only thing that gave me an appetite and allowed me to laugh again with my friends. When I told them that, I was "justifying" my use, and I was "an addict," and I was "just looking to party." When my life was a living hell, and it helped me not want to off myself. It made interacting with other people possible. Because of my difficulties, I was made to feel stupid, and I thought that THAT was why I always came to different conclusions than other people. Well, I took the Stanford-Binet...... I scored a 137! So, NOT STUPID!!! In fact, I have a higher IQ than 98% of the population, and THAT is why I come to different conclusions... well, that and noticing details others don't.

[@IvyPlans]

It’s also important to sit with the uncomfortable feelings this is how you grow your self reliance and personal fortitude.

[@urbandiscount]

For me that's not the effect. On the contrary, it made emotions and emotional impact more manageable. But mainly I take THC because of the effect it has on social interaction. It really dials down a lot of the anxiety and dials up the ability to interact in a neurotypical way.

[@Thareldis]

By the way about colaborations with European institutions. Switzerland is working on legalitation and has decriminslized Cannabis use for quite a long time by now. She could probably contact the ETH in Zurich, or the BAG "Bundesamt für Gesundheit" (health ministry) to find out if there are any possibillities to colaborate on those studies. The latter are trying to start studies on those matters anyway to pave a path for legalization.

[@atashgallagher5139]

Autism is having all of your social skills, the social interaction, the reading body language and nonverbal cues and the verbal subtext and insinuations, and the managing of bodly language amd facial expressions. Its having all of that not hardware accelerated, normal people have it hardware accelerated and it just runs in the background with a few percent at the absolute most of their brain power, whereas an autistic person has to run *_all of that_* in their frontal cortex where all of your concious thought and higher reasoning abilities are. You gotta run those calculations on the CPU which is highly inefficient and not very good or fast. You can figure out the raw calculations and the rules everyone else just does on instinct and then brute force the calculations with the concious part of your brain, but thats exhausting, its like doing calculus constantly.

[@MsTammi125]

Cannabis heals❤

[@7bookem]

46, ADHD and an ex-stoner. Kush for me didn’t work, it just monged me and I got nothing done but sativa heavy hybrids were great for productivity, focus and mood. Whilst maybe not physically addictive, for me it was psychologically - running out was extremely stressful . I’m glad I quit, it was a crutch for me, I’ve learnt to live with ADHD without cannabis. I’m £400/month better off, my head is clearer and I‘m no longer paranoid about getting pulled over, neighbours complaining, landlord getting shirty etc… the downsides made it less enjoyable.

[@jamesthomas5109]

Sounds awesome 👌

[@ThomasHenley]

It was an awesome interview!

[@DarkEnergyHealer]

The first time I smoked weed I was 16 years old and I just remember riding my bike home afterwards and I was happy and thought this is how "normal" people must feel. Im 48 now and even though I still have the same issues daily with autism (still not officially diagnosed), it does take of some of the anxiety, stress and helps you sleep better. I despise the pharmaceutical industry and have been selfmedicating for many years. Thankfully I grew up in the Netherlands where weed has been accepted for a long time

[@avagardner2336]

I just came across this podcast and absolutely loved this episode. It was so informative and nuanced!! Thank you both of you, I'm looking forward to more episodes :)

[@relentlessrhythm2774]

This is very relatable! I use medical marijuana to help me not be so overstimulated.

[@kblive1414]

Thank you for saying this out loud!

[@Diverse_Interests]

I love the idea of study of the neurodiverse in relation to pharmacology. I notice most research leaves out gifted mind types but the overlap of traits between ASD and giftedness is around 35%. It would be of great help to be included (gifted) in research especially with pharmacology as the drugs designed for medical use do not function as expected in gifted people. Any inclusion of giftedness in brain studies in reaction to pharmaceuticals can at least start the path for medical references being available to adjust for differences once the medical practitioner is aware.

[@alternativetentacles1760]

From my personal experience it seems “gifted” is usually associated with Level 1 and Level 2 Autistics who also have ADHD. Elon Musk said he’s diagnosed Aspergers (level 1 autism) but he has behaviors that overlap with ADHD spectrum too.

[@Diverse_Interests]

@@alternativetentacles1760 It’s fascinating to get into the similarities and overlap of traits in ASD, ADHD and Gifted because the traits show up the same but have different reasons for why those traits appear. It gets difficult trying to diagnose one from the other unless whoever is doing the diagnosis knows all three mind types on a deeper level. Since the traits are so close, all these types can be misunderstood and diagnosed incorrectly. I wish it was talked about more and that it was more mainstream because that could help early on instead of late diagnosis.

[@paulbeel8358]

With cannabis, the world needs to study the Canadian experience. All forms of cannabis are one hundred percent legal and the industry is flourishing. Safely. Canadians are now EDUCATED when it comes to this plant. No more taboo. Come to Canada and see for yourself.

[@lesasmart6043]

As a Canadian, yes, it's great because you know the exact dosage. It's listed on the package. The biggest rookie mistake is taking too much too soon. Especially with edible. Most people only need half or a quarter.

[@etherico3041]

Once you remember corporations are in business for profit and not to serve the needs of public then their ulterior motives become clearer.

[@callanrose]

this was a great conversation, thank u.

[@jasonelia3268]

You rock you two.

[@skoomakity8769]

Been a stoner since 17, 5 years and a bit of overdoing the social drinking because i LOVE clubbing and bars but cant do it without it booze. Currently state mandated sober and honestly, the alcohol im fine without and always have been but god damned the weed is rough to go without

[@nessknows.]

I work at a dispensary and I can confirm that the majority of people looking for cannabis in my community want pain relief, inflammation relief, to sleep, or help with emotional regulation. I’m also autistic and there’s a father who comes in and gets drinks to help his nonverbal adult autistic son (20mg a day) and he said the difference between his levels of distress is better than with anything he has tried before. It bothered me at first, the thought of medicating someone else to make you more comfortable, but his son is also more comfortable. I use CBG for pain, mental calmness and inflammation, cbd for pain and anxiety, and thc for help with self regulation. I have tried every pill thrown at me from fourteen to 28 without question and I never felt regulated and calm like I do with cannabis.

[@toyotasupra97]

I thank goodness for it every day. The world isn’t built for us so how else can we cope.

[@MissManifest369.]

I found this fascinating! Thanks 😊

[@freecat1278]

I had a few negative experiences. For context, I was using large doses for pain management. Picture a sine wave pattern on a graph: the horizontal axis is time, the peak of the waves is when you are most aware of your surroundings, the crests represent when you are deep inside your head. The though I took with me was a memory of offending one of my friends. With the time dilation, it seemed like I was there with that memory for many hours. You can't really switch thoughts until you reach another peak. You might want to hang a sign up that reminds you to think happy thoughts.

[@nicoetic]

I’m curious if Miyabe has any info on why some people get the opposite effects of indica vs sativas? Sativas feel super heavy to me and make me want to just eat or sleep, and indicas give me a ton of energy and help me to socialize and get things done. I only smoke indicas because I don’t like the lazy feeling from sativas. I’m AuDHD, but this doesn’t appear to be common among other Autistics or AuDHDers, so I’m curious what factors might contribute to this?

[@jennifermonroe6725]

I’m not sure if she will have any insight on it but I have experienced the same thing. I tend to only get hybrids now.

[@BreeeYT]

yay season 3!!

[@ThomasHenley]

Indeed! I hope you guys enjoy listening a couple of days earlier :)

[@malikibeats]

love the channel and interview

[@DeborahAnnsuperversatile]

I have seen some very boring people-I think they are neuro-typical. I love neuro-diversity. And I like looking at scans of brains and such. I love her profession and how it matches up with her interests. That's wonderful 👍

[@justinwatson1510]

Poppies are also plants, and the latex that comes from poppies is far less dangerous than fentanyl, morphine, or even Vicodin. There is no reason any drugs should be criminalized, and if someone wants to grow such things for personal use it is nobody's business but their own.

[@roomclear]

I FEEL SEEN!!! Only recently figured out/admitted to myself that I'm on "The Spectrum". Been a daily smoker since I was 14 and I'm 53....

[@LeonardSamuels75]

Cannabis supercharges my creativity impulse Ive noticed, im PDA Autistic.

[@garrettleejr]

It is helpful, but in my case I have to use it 3 or 4 times a day and the cost adds up, my lungs get tired from smoking and I think it’s caused some neuropathy in my foot. Edibles mess with my balance. Cannabis takes away your dreams! And I don’t think it allows for the most restful sleep. I’m working on quitting totally.

[@Flopsi80]

It doesn't take away my dreams, I remember them every night.

[@whispersinthedark88]

It's kinda crazy i live in a very rural area of the US but weed is legal for recreational use now. I cant get food delivered here, only thing i can get delivery from is the weed store....which is handy since I'm in a lot of pain most of the time.

[@chrisb9445]

I only use it to sleep now. Helps me stay sleep throughout the night

[@karladolman9664]

I'm in the UK, despite the law, I can source what I need when I need with zero issues. Mushrooms grow quite literally in our back gardens here in Wales! I spent a year of one of my A levels studying, comparing and contrasting Buddhism and Utilitarianism, was very interesting and has formed a foundation of my world view.

[@AliciaGuitar]

43 years old here and use mmj pretty much daily for 20 years. I have comorbid epilepsy and Crohns and am on long term chemo, and it helps me with those. Without it i can barely eat. I stopped getting high many years ago, and prefer NOT to get high now anyway. It is overwhelming to me and makes me nauseous when i do accidentally get high (rarely happens but sometimes a stronger strain will do it the first time if i am not cautious). I have been taking advanced college computer science courses, so i seriously doubt it is harming my intelligence or motivation in life. I get more done when im not convulsing and starving and puking from chemo. Personally i think its fine as long as you use natural forms. Trouble comes with concentrates, vape oils mixed with other chems, and synthetics. I stick with natural plant material exclusively and respect it as a medicine and not the cure or answer to everything.

[@micheals1992]

Back when I first started using cannabis recreationally when I was about 17. I was (and still am) extremely sensitive to it, I hallucinated a couple of times due to peer pressure to smoke more then I was comfortable with. I quit cannabis for years after the knots on a wooden door melted into words, I looked away in panic as it started spelling but I'm sure it was forming into the words "kill, kill, kill". I don't even know why I ever smoked it again. I think I'd already seen some benefits but that day I realised mental illness can make you a prisoner inside your own mind. I was paranoid for months after that I could've caused schitzophrenia, that was 14 years ago now. I don't have any signs of schizophrenia, I think it was just a drug induced Psychosis. It was scary though!

[@loverainthunder]

I'm glad you're okay. ❤ It's so dangerous to imbibe for some brains. Someone close to me lost their mind from using. It pays to be careful. And it's possible that yours could have been tainted with something else, or you might be sensitive to it. Stay safe. What a nightmare.

[@micheals1992]

​​@@loverainthunder I did wonder if it was tainted as it seemed more like I'd had LSD that day. It was my stepbrother who provided the cannabis. He had asked me if I'd take LSD a few months before and I said No. I wouldn't put it past him that he spiked the cannabis. My stepbrother is a narcissist. I should've probably been careful but he was my only "friend". He used to brag that he could manipulate people and got off from making other people suffer, I never hid my disgust of his behaviour when he told me about hurting and manipulating people, looking back he was definitely manipulating me. It was an emotional rollercoaster. He used to complain that "I was such a Christian" (ironically I have always been an atheist) because I never agreed with his behaviour towards other people when he told me because I cared so much about other peoples feelings and I'm always nice, respectful and understanding towards others. It wasn't something I was willing (or maybe even able) to change for him, it's deeply rooted in my personality.

[@loverainthunder]

@micheals1992 I also believe I had cannabis that was spiked with something. I had a terrible sensation as if I was in a flickering old movie and everything felt disjointed, and I felt like I was urinating on myself and moving very fast. That was over 30 years ago. Recently, I started with full spectrum cbd oil. Also, cbn, cbg, and thc gummies. Entirely different situation. I'm never going to smoke anything. But if I do, it will be tested for purity and from a shop with a good reputation. I'm glad you were able to discern the pathological behavior in that person. It's possible to be tricked and trapped in a long-term relationship with psychological abusers. I hope you understand how dangerous these pathological types can be. They are only restrained by public opinion so long as they feel they can win public approval. Aside from that, they are capable of anything. 💀☠️

[@ChristinaGXL]

I describe eye contact as burning. It burns inside.

[@roguedoge2479]

Quite literally like I am staring into the persons very soul. Bit too intense for me, let’s at least go out to dinner first 🙄

[@S.G.W.Verbeek]

Where does it burn. With me it is in my eyes🙀

[@misterfelixguy11]

Im going through the process of a late diagnosis at the age of 24, and Ive been using cannabis since high school. I recognize that it helps me with many of the less ideal aspects of autism, yet i cant help but feel like Ive been using it as a crutch. It got to the point where i couldnt eat a meal without it, and i would use it before, during and after work. I cant tell if Ive simply internalized the stigma and criticism ive heard from my parents and society, or if it actually has become a problem for me. My life is going great, but something in the back of my mind tells me it would be even better if i gave up cannabis. Its been a week since I decided to quite using it for at least a year, but I dont know if Im making a mistake. Theres probably some happy middle ground, but Ive never been able to stay in that place of moderation for long. It always ends up devolving into using it all the time - like its all or nothing. Maybe that will change after I get my formal diagnosis and after I am more accepting of my neurodivergence. 🤷‍♂️

[@sheradenart7907]

I have ound that different cannabis effects me differently. I have terpenes that are very helpful to me and some that make me feel like complete crap.

[@Ulyssestnt]

Cyp450 is a pretty wild enzyme family,that you definitely gotta be careful when manipulating..I love nerding out on pharmacology :P

[@flashingturtle6505]

the stigma other people carry about me smoking weed is like being gay in the 1950's and its horrible

[@TeddyLovesAxl]

I’m 56 and have ADHD and Autism. W€€d is my medication. I was put on probation 3 days ago for some dumb shit and was told I cannot have w€€d in my system even if I have a medical marijuana card. 🤦‍♀️ I don’t know what to do

[@stephe1506]

They told you you cant take your medication? For how long?

[@d.w.stratton4078]

I'm in Massachusetts and autiHD too!!

[@davea5884]

I have aspergers and thankfully I found marijuana at 11 years old in 6th grade. I used to be ashamed that as an 11 year old I smoked pot morning evening and night. But honestly that was the changing point of my life. That was the day I stopped being the weird kid on the outside and became one of the group. Then in 8th grade my social group (preppy sports/popular kids) found out that I smoked weed. And thanks to the social stigma back then they abandoned me like it was nothing. But the pot again was my savior helping me come to terms with my entire world changed and I felt like I was on my own.

[@rebel4466]

I'm interested, do you have any strains you specifically enjoy/get the most benefit out of? Really interested in the medical and treatment side of things.

[@liamwiren3181]

this was intresting, thank you

[@BuckarooBonzai]

🎉Smoke or don't smoke, but helping people with delivery or production of plants is alleviating for everyone involved in many different ways. To make this dynamic relationship and its corresponding plants illegal in any way is close to evil.❤

[@oldmageguy6468]

No for real. I listen to this show and many others while gaming or streaming because I can listen easier and retain more of the information

[@alternativetentacles1760]

I’ve had a pleasant experience taking small doses of thc edibles.

[@smolville]

We have to grow our own just so we can mix the leaf with the 30% store bought stuff and tone it down.