Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) is considered a form of autism, rating high on the autistic spectrum. AS is exhibited in childhood and throughout life. Symptoms include social awkwardness, loud vocalizations, atypical speech, emotional detachment or over-attachment, anger management issues, and narrow interests that may become obsessive. Those with AS usually feel like they don’t “fit in” with society. They’re often smarter, more creative, or more observant than their peers and can excel in life when given a chance. Marijuana can be used to alleviate the negative symptoms and accentuate the positive aspects of Asperger’s Syndrome.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) are the two main cannabinoids found in marijuana. THC is psychoactive, causing the “high” associated with marijuana use. CBD is non-psychoactive and has a calming effect. Aspies should choose high quality medical marijuana that has a high CBD to THC ratio. Use tinctures and edibles for long-lasting effects. Smoke or vaporize marijuana for a quick fix. Try mixing buds and leaves together to get more CBD’s in your medicine.
Anxiety: Anxiety issues can make it impossible to lead a productive life. CBD’s calm the body and mind to relieve stress. but beware of high THC concentrations that can cause severe anxiety and panic attacks.
Anger and Rage: Aspies are often ruled by their emotions and can have temper-tantrums well into adulthood. Smoke or vaporize marijuana as soon as you feel the anger rising and you should be able to calm down enough to talk about your feelings.
Gastrointestinal Disorders: Sufferers of AS can have stress management issues due to their inability to control emotions. This can lead to disorders of the gastrointestinal system, such as ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and Crohn’s Disease. Marijuana has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties that can ease discomfort. If you are malnourished, use marijuana to stimulate your appetite.
Insomnia: Stress and depression can make it impossible to get a good night’s sleep. Marijuana can help you fall asleep and stay asleep.
Racing Brain: Aspie brains can race out of control making it difficult to concentrate and communicate. Marijuana slows down your thought processes, enabling you to think clearly and focus on one subject at a time.
Socialization: Marijuana can alleviate social phobias, allowing you to leave the house and interact with the world without worrying about feeling different.
Medical marijuana may not work for everyone diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome. You may have to experiment with THC to CBD ratios and methods of ingestion to find a treatment plan that works for you.
Sources:
Interactive Autism Network
Autism Research Institute
Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research