New research from the Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology at Maastricht University in the Netherlands suggests that microdosing psychedelics could alleviate symptoms of ADHD. According to the research, individuals diagnosed with ADHD often have lower levels of mindfulness, making it difficult to focus, complete tasks, cope with stress, and manage impatience and restlessness.
Conducted over the course of four weeks, the study saw nearly 250 participants take small amounts of non-hallucinogenic psychedelics repeatedly. Mindfulness and personality traits were measured throughout the study period. Over 80% of the participants reported practicing mindfulness.
The results of the study showed that trait mindfulness, such as descriptions and non-judging of inner experience, increased after four weeks of microdosing compared to baseline. Moreover, neuroticism decreased. In addition, the effects of microdosing remained the same for participants who also used conventional medication for their ADHD and those who had comorbid diagnoses.
It is estimated that 2.6 million people in the UK have ADHD, according to ADHD UK. In 2019, PLOS One published a study which found that microdosing psychedelics could also help to reduce depressive symptoms and stress while improving focus. The researchers noted that more research was necessary to confirm their findings.
To read the full study by the Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, click here
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