The "one drop of potential" that science is beginning to show, and the reality that the system is leaving behind
An "unrecognized hope" floating between medicine and family
The use of CBD (cannabidiol) for children with developmental disorders is quietly spreading around the world. Although CBD is a cannabis-derived ingredient, it is said to have no psychoactive effects and is extremely low in addictive properties. There are now voices in the medical and research fields that suggest this substance may have the potential to change the lives of children with developmental characteristics such as ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).
The day our eyes met for the first time: the story of Noah and CBD
Rebecca M., who lives in California, USA, has diagnosed her 8-year-old son Noah with severe ASD. Noah does not speak, does not make eye contact, and has tantrums many times a day. Rebecca learned of the option of CBD at the recommendation of a local pediatric neurologist. On the first day of administering CBD oil to Noah under the doctor’s prescription, he looked at his mother’s face and smiled slightly. Rebecca says, “It was the first time our eyes met in eight years.” From that day on, Noah gradually became calmer and was able to sleep peacefully at night. His panic attacks decreased dramatically, and he began to show consistency in his daytime behavior. The effect of CBD is merely “symptom relief,” not a fundamental cure. However, for Rebecca, it was a major turning point that allowed her to share a little of her life with her son.
Evidence from Europe: "Meaningful change"
There are other similar reports, and scientific evidence is gradually emerging. A study presented at the European Society of Psychiatry in 2025 integrated and analyzed multiple clinical data examining the effects of CBD on 276 children with ASD, and found statistically significant improvements in social responsiveness and reductions in disruptive behavior. In particular, reports of effects such as reduced anxiety and improved sleep quality were consistent with the subjective evaluations of parents. These data clearly show the potential for CBD to contribute to the quality of life (QOL) of children with ASD.
Be cautious when applying this to ADHD -- a "hunch" from ongoing research
Meanwhile, research on ADHD is still in its infancy. Some small pilot studies have observed a reduction in hyperactivity and impulsivity in children who were administered CBD, but the sample size was small, and comparison with a control group and confirmation of long-term effects remain issues. The application of CBD to ADHD is still an area of great scientific and social debate. In fact, there are several testimonials from parents of ADHD children who have experienced the effects of CBD, but further large-scale verification and careful safety evaluation are required before it can become a clinical standard.
How to define the word "safety": Side effects and medical judgment
The side effects of CBD also require careful consideration. It is generally considered to be well tolerated, and no clear differences in adverse events were observed between the placebo group and the ASD children’s group. However, some mild side effects such as drowsiness, loss of appetite, and digestive disorders have been reported, and it is necessary to consider the effects on liver function, especially when using it in combination with other drugs. Self-judgment is not recommended, and it is important to start using it gradually under the supervision of a doctor.
Japan's Silence: The Institutional Wall that Prevents "Even Discussion"
Unfortunately, medical discussion of CBD in Japan is extremely limited, and there are almost no systems or research on its use for children. Even CBD, which is a legal ingredient, doctors are hesitant to prescribe it, and parents have no choice but to import it themselves. The social aversion to the word cannabis has created an environment that does not even allow for scientific verification.
The choice of "CBD for children" calls into question society's maturity
For families facing developmental disorders, CBD may not be a “miracle drug.” But if it is the only way to ease our children’s suffering and restore the bond between parent and child, should we continue to reject it because of the walls of law and prejudice? As long as CBD has the potential to be a new treatment option, society has a responsibility to verify it. It is up to medical professionals, researchers, policymakers, and readers themselves to decide whether they can leave “room” for children’s futures.