Finding Relief: A Personal Journey with CBD for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Finding Relief: A Personal Journey with CBD for Autism Spectrum Disorder

A Mother’s Concern

When my son was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder while in pre-K, I felt a wave of uncertainty wash over me. Despite enrolling him in speech therapy and trying holistic remedies to ease his anxiety, he still experienced frequent outbursts. The sight of him throwing himself to the ground and banging his head was alarming, and I knew I had to find a solution that would ensure his safety and well-being.

Exploring CBD: A Non-Intoxicating Option

As a journalist and podcaster who often covers plant medicine, I had some knowledge of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating compound derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, which produces a high, CBD has been reported to help with various conditions, including autism, seizures, and even menstrual cramps. Although I had personally benefited from CBD for my health issues, the thought of giving it to my son was daunting.

Concerns and Research

My hesitation stemmed from several factors. I had heard stories of parents facing legal repercussions for administering CBD to their children, and I was wary of potential side effects. Additionally, some CBD products have been found to contain harmful substances, raising further concerns. However, after reading “Seeing Through the Smoke” by Dr. Peter Grinspoon, a primary care physician and cannabis expert, I began to reconsider. The book highlighted the positive impacts cannabis can have on autistic children, prompting me to revisit my research on CBD.

Initial Trials and Cautious Optimism

While there is limited research on the effects of CBD on children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, promising studies do exist. A 2022 study published in the journal Nature showed significant improvements in social symptoms among participants aged 5 to 25 treated with a CBD-rich cannabis strain. This evidence, coupled with testimonials from friends and healthcare professionals, encouraged me to give CBD a try.

Choosing a Trusted Brand

After careful consideration, I opted for Charlotte’s Web CBD oil, a brand known for its commitment to quality and transparency. The company provides third-party lab results, which reassured me about the product’s safety. I started with a quarter of the suggested dose, administering it at night to monitor any potential side effects. To my surprise, my son went to bed without incident and slept through the night, a rare occurrence.

Notable Improvements

As I gradually increased the dosage over the following weeks, I began to notice significant changes in my son’s behavior. Transitions that once triggered intense outbursts became manageable. He started expressing his feelings more clearly, using phrases like “I’m mad” or “I’m hungry.” Additionally, he began to engage in imaginative play and showed less sensitivity to loud noises.

Facing Stigma and Legal Gray Areas

Despite these positive developments, I remained apprehensive about others discovering my son’s use of CBD. Even in states where cannabis is legal, societal attitudes can be less accepting, and the legal landscape surrounding CBD remains murky, particularly for minors. The 2018 Farm Bill may have legalized hemp-derived CBD, but child endangerment laws still pose a risk for parents.

Seeking Medical Guidance

Eventually, I decided to inform my son’s dentist and pediatrician about his CBD use, and thankfully, there were no issues. However, I recognized that many parents might struggle to find reliable medical guidance on cannabinoid therapies. The lack of comprehensive research and regulatory oversight leaves many healthcare providers ill-equipped to advise families on CBD.

The Need for More Research

Dr. Benjamin Caplan, a family physician specializing in cannabis medicine, emphasizes the gap in training regarding cannabinoids in medical education. He advocates for more research to provide parents with evidence-based support when considering CBD for their children.

A Journey of Hope

More than a year later, I continue to give my son CBD, and I genuinely believe it has contributed positively to his well-being. While I can’t definitively attribute his progress solely to CBD, it has become an invaluable tool in our wellness toolkit. His teachers report that he is happier and more engaged, and his testing scores have improved significantly.

Looking Ahead

As we continue this journey, I hope for more research into the effects of CBD on neurodivergent children. Parents deserve access to reliable information and resources without fear of judgment or legal repercussions. While I can’t scientifically prove CBD’s role in my son’s progress, I am grateful for the support it has provided, and I believe that every parent deserves the best tools available to help their children thrive.

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