Attention Different | Adulting with ADHD ADHD & Cannabis: The Truth (Part 1) — w/ Dr. Roberto Oliviarda
💡 Is the substance that “helps you relax” quietly making your ADHD worse?
Today’s guest stresses: this isn’t about moralizing the issue, it’s about what the science says.
In this episode, hosts Stephen Tonti and Aaron Smith welcome back returning guest, clinical psychologist, and Harvard Medical School lecturer Dr. Roberto Olivardia, to unpack one of the most critical topics for today’s ADHDers: cannabis and the ADHD brain.
Diving deep into the sobering research, Dr. Olivardia breaks down how modern THC levels and the unique brain chemistry of ADHDers interact in ways most people never consider. From executive function decline to increased addiction risk and even links to psychosis, this episode challenges the all-too-pervasive belief that cannabis is a harmless or helpful tool for managing ADHD.
☀️ If you or someone you know is struggling with cannabis or substance dependency, help is available. The SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) offers free, confidential support 24/7 and can connect you with local treatment options. You can also visit FindTreatment.gov to search for licensed providers in your area.
✨ Highlights ✨
✔️ Why today’s cannabis is not the same as it was decades ago
✔️ The difference between self-medication and actual treatment
✔️ How THC impacts executive function and brain structure over time
✔️ Why ADHD brains are more vulnerable to addiction and dependency
✔️ The genetic link that may increase risk for cannabis-related psychosis in ADHDers
✔️ The “dimmer switch” effect of cannabis and why it feels helpful in the moment
✔️ What’s really happening when cannabis starts shrinking your world
🧠 “Self-medication is not the same as treatment, and what feels helpful can still be harmful.”
—Dr. Roberto Olivardia
This episode is for anyone who has ever thought: “Is this actually helping me, or just numbing something deeper?”
If you’ve used cannabis to manage stress, anxiety, sleep, or focus, this conversation offers a clearer, science-backed perspective on what’s really happening, and what your brain might truly need instead.
We are Attention DIFFERENT not DEFICIT An advocacy and edutainment podcast centered on radical acceptance and neurodiveristy. Attention Different aims to de-stigmatize and build community by exploring the intricacies of living life and "adulting" with ADHD in the modern world. We periodically feature experts, special guests and influencers in the ADHD community.
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