Submitted by Jabria C. from Richmond, VA

I am 30 years old, from Richmond, VA, and have been dealing with ADHD pretty much my whole life but especially for the past 10 years.

The inability to follow through on tasks led to self-judgment and a sense of being broken

I found myself unable to focus on tasks, constantly getting distracted, and jumping from one thing to another without completing anything. This cycle left me feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, and anxious. My reliance on Adderall only exacerbated these feelings, as I required increasingly higher doses to manage my symptoms.

Unfortunately, this medication began to affect my heart rate and blood pressure, issues I had never experienced before. These challenges extended beyond productivity; I noticed my ADHD impacting my social interactions, leading to interruptions and forgetfulness during conversations. Overall, I felt frustrated and isolated, struggling to keep up with those around me.

Before turning to Cannabis, I explored various avenues to manage my ADHD symptoms

This included relying on Adderall, which, despite initially providing some relief, eventually necessitated higher doses and resulted in unwanted side effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure. In addition to medication, I experimented with numerous organizing apps and planners, hoping to improve my productivity. I also tried different "focus" teas and engaged in therapy to address the underlying issues contributing to my struggles with attention and focus. Despite these efforts, I continued to grapple with the challenges of ADHD, feeling increasingly frustrated and disillusioned with the available options.

My journey of discovery exploring cannabinoids

I definitely learned the most from my experience at the Cannabis Coaching Institute (CCI). I learned that different cannabinoids have different benefits and uses, and it was through them that I discovered CBG and began my own research and finding products specifically to help with focus.

Navigating the stigma around Cannabis wasn't easy

Growing up, it was this hush-hush topic in my family, and those DARE commercials definitely didn't help. Even after I started using it regularly in 2020 (way before it was legal here), I still got side-eyed by some folks. It made me feel ashamed like I was doing something wrong. The hardest part was convincing people it wasn't just about getting high. They didn't get that Cannabis could actually help with things like ADHD.

Once I dug into the science and learned about its history, things started to shift. I realized there was so much more to it than just the buzz. Understanding the plant's different components and how they can help medically was eye-opening. And when I uncovered the truth behind why it got such a bad rap (capitalistic greed and propaganda), it all clicked. I stopped caring so much about what others thought and embraced Cannabis for what it really is: a helpful tool for managing my ADHD (and many other things!)

My daily cannabinoid routine for managing focus, energy, and appetite regulation

I take an oil infusion of CBD, CBG, and THCV in the mornings to help manage my focus, energy, and appetite regulation. I take a dosage of 53mg total cannabinoids: 40mg CBD, 6.7mg CBG and 6.7mg THCV. Later in the day (normally 1-2pm) I will take a CBD/CBG tincture (16mg each) to give me an afternoon boost and continue my focus. I will normally use THC (typically a few puffs from a joint) before I go for a walk/do my movement for the day because it helps me connect with my body. I love varieties that have a higher CBG percentage and I also tend to lean towards varieties high in terpinolene as they seem to work well for my Endocannabinoid System (ECS). In the evening I will often smoke the rest or most of the remaining joint from earlier; this helps me unwind and sleep well through the night.

Before incorporating Cannabis for my condition

I felt frustrated, like a failure/out of control, like I would never be successful, like I was falling behind my peers, like I would have to be on the RX equivalent of speed (Adderall) for the rest of my life or that it would eventually stop working. I felt like I was always going to be this flaky, forgetful, babbling hot mess who could never get her life together.

After incorporating Cannabis to address my health issues

I have a toolbelt full of ways to treat and manage my needs (especially ADHD and anxiety), a significantly more positive outlook on my productivity and what I'm capable of, and a passion that has resulted in a new career path.

I'm in no way ADHD or anxiety-free, but I am more confident about managing it!

As a black, plus-sized, queer woman I am always looking for people like me in the Cannabis space. In many ways I have to be the representation I am seeking and hope that others see me and what I've been able to do as something attainable for them as well.

This is Jabria’s personal story and not meant to be medical advice. It is for informational purposes.

To work with a medical Cannabis professional, please visit our directory of coaches, educators, and medical professionals. Everyone's Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is different; good results start with the right approach. You don't have to figure it out on your own.

If you need help with any terminology in this article, you may find some answers in our glossary.