Episode 166 of the Young Dad Podcast explores Steve's journey through chronic pain, ADHD, and fatherhood. Learn about the therapeutic uses of cannabis and psychedelics for managing mental health and the importance of love and boundaries in parenting.
Managing Chronic Pain and ADHD: Insights from Steve's Journey - Young Dad Podcast Ep. 166
Chronic pain, ADHD, and fatherhood are challenging enough on their own, but when combined, they can feel downright overwhelming. In Episode 166 of the Young Dad Podcast, we meet Steve, a former public school teacher who has faced more than his share of challenges. After a serious injury during a student fight, Steve has undergone four back surgeries and now lives with permanent disability. But despite these setbacks, he remains resilient, open to new possibilities, and committed to his role as a father of three, one of whom is on the autism spectrum.
Steve’s story is one of perseverance and adaptation. In this episode, he shares his experience with chronic pain management, his diagnosis of adult ADHD and autism spectrum disorder, and how medical cannabis has become a crucial part of his daily life.
Additionally, Steve and Jay delve into the therapeutic potential of cannabis and psychedelics for managing ADHD and mental health issues. They also discuss the evolving legal landscape of cannabis use, particularly for medical purposes. If you're interested in learning about alternative therapies, parenting with disabilities, or the intersection of mental health and cannabis, this episode is for you.
A Journey from the Classroom to Chronic Pain Management
Steve spent 16 years as a dedicated public school teacher, a job he loved and poured his heart into. However, his career took an unexpected turn when he was injured during a student fight. What followed were four back surgeries and a permanent disability that changed the course of his life. “I was injured during a student fight and have had four back surgeries since then,” Steve recalls.
The transition from being an active teacher to living with chronic pain was not easy. It wasn’t just the physical pain; it was the emotional and mental toll of not being able to do what he once could. But instead of letting these challenges define him, Steve chose to find new ways to contribute and stay engaged. “I may not be able to give as much as I used to, but I can be more in these other areas now,” he says, reflecting on how he has adapted his life to his new circumstances.
The Role of Medical Cannabis in Managing Chronic Pain
For Steve, managing chronic pain without relying on harsh pharmaceuticals has been crucial. After trying various treatments, he turned to medical cannabis, which he describes as a game-changer. “I use medical cannabis because it’s something I can use every day without destroying my stomach,” Steve explains. Unlike traditional pain medications that can have severe side effects, medical cannabis provides relief without compromising his overall health.
Steve and Jay dive into a discussion about the different strains of cannabis and their varying effects. For instance, some strains provide an uplifted, energetic, and creative feeling, which Steve finds helpful for managing his ADHD symptoms. “Adderall really helped me a lot, but now I get Adderall levels of work done with the right strains of cannabis,” he shares. This kind of personalized approach to managing symptoms is part of what makes cannabis such a valuable tool in Steve’s life.
Navigating ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder as an Adult
In addition to chronic pain, Steve was diagnosed with adult ADHD and autism spectrum disorder, conditions that have shaped both his personal and professional life. ADHD, in particular, presented challenges in staying focused and managing stress. However, Steve has found that certain strains of cannabis can help him maintain energy and focus, even on the toughest days. “Relaxing, but also gives enough energy to re-spark and focus,” is how Steve describes the effects of his chosen cannabis strains.
The conversation also touches on the broader potential of psychedelics for therapeutic use, especially in managing mental health conditions like ADHD and anxiety. While the research is still emerging, Steve and Jay discuss the promise these substances hold for providing alternative treatments that could be more effective and less harmful than some conventional medications.
The Challenges of Finding Employment with a Disability
One of the toughest aspects of Steve’s journey has been finding employment within the education field after his injury. Despite his extensive experience and passion for teaching, his disability has posed significant barriers to re-entering the workforce. The stigma surrounding his use of medical cannabis and his physical limitations have made it difficult to find a position that accommodates his needs.
However, Steve remains hopeful and open to new opportunities. He’s explored different avenues outside of traditional teaching, focusing on how he can use his skills and experiences in new ways. His story is a reminder of the resilience it takes to keep moving forward, even when life doesn’t go as planned.
The Importance of Unconditional Love and Setting Boundaries
Amidst all these challenges, Steve emphasizes the importance of parenting with unconditional love and clear boundaries. Raising three children, one of whom is on the autism spectrum, has taught him the value of patience, empathy, and consistency. “Unconditional love and setting boundaries are essential for parenting,” Steve advises. His approach is not just about managing his children’s needs but also about creating a stable and loving environment where they can thrive.
Steve also shares insights on co-parenting and the importance of effective communication, especially when raising a child with special needs. His journey has shown him that while love is the foundation, structure and boundaries are what allow children to feel secure and understood.
The Evolving Legal Landscape of Cannabis
Another important aspect of the discussion is the evolving legal status of cannabis. While some states have legalized or decriminalized its use for medical purposes, the stigma and legal barriers remain significant challenges. Steve and Jay discuss the need for more research and education to shift public perception and make medical cannabis more accessible to those who need it.
Steve’s story highlights the importance of advocating for legal reforms that recognize the therapeutic benefits of cannabis and other alternative treatments. It’s about more than just personal use; it’s about creating a healthcare system that is inclusive and responsive to the needs of all individuals, particularly those with chronic conditions or disabilities.
Final Thoughts
Steve’s journey, as shared in Episode 166 of the Young Dad Podcast, is a powerful example of resilience, adaptation, and hope. Despite facing chronic pain, ADHD, and the challenges of raising children with special needs, Steve has found ways to manage his conditions and continue being a loving, supportive father. His use of medical cannabis and exploration of alternative therapies underscore the importance of personalized care and the need for more research and education in this area.
For young fathers and anyone dealing with similar challenges, Steve’s story is an inspiring reminder that even when life takes unexpected turns, there are always new paths to explore. Whether through medical cannabis, creative problem-solving, or simply showing up with love and consistency, there are ways to navigate the toughest of circumstances.
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