ADHD in the News 2025-01-09
Being Black with ADHD
For Black families with the neurodevelopmental disorder, unique challenges emerge.
WVU studies find time-release medication keeps adults with ADHD on track, lowers substance use risk
Adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, who use an extended-release medication are more likely to continue the treatment and have a lower risk of developing substance use disorder, according to two West Virginia University studies.
Adolescents with ADHD tend to eat more snacks than their peers
New research has found that 16-to-20-year-olds with ADHD tend to consume more snacks (e.g., dried snacks, chips, nuts, soft drinks, fruit juice, and energy drinks) than their peers without this disorder. The paper was published in the Journal of Attention Disorders.
Machine learning helps predict ADHD in kindergarten students
U of A research team analyzes provincial health data and teachers’ reports as a way to promote earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Pilot Program Slashes Wait Times for Adult ADHD Diagnosis
With long wait times for behavioral healthcare delaying diagnosis and treatment of adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), an approach in primary care could fast-track care for patients. The Methodist Hospital Family Medicine Residency Program at the University of Minnesota in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, implemented a pair of screening tools that reduced complaint-to-treatment times for uncomplicated adult ADHD by up to 96% compared with behavioral health referrals. The outcomes of the intervention were recently published in Annals of Family Medicine.
How Periods Can Affect ADHD Symptoms and Treatment
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms worsen right before and during a period, a new study finds, and this could impact treatment
These four factors predict maladaptive daydreaming in neurodivergent individuals
A new study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders has revealed key factors linked to maladaptive daydreaming in neurodivergent adults. Emotional dysregulation, internalized stigma, escapism, and self-esteem emerged as significant predictors, varying across individuals with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and both diagnoses
Jumping Jacks and Cold Water: How Pediatricians Are Stepping up in the Youth Mental Health Crisis
A young boy with a habit of screaming when he didn’t get his way is among the patients Joannie Yeh, MD, a primary care physician at Nemours Children’s Health in Media, Pennsylvania, has helped in her practice.
For Adolescents With ADHD, Sleep Problems Are Linked to Worse Mental Health
Adolescents with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and comorbid sleep problems have a higher prevalence of co-occurring mental health issues than those with ADHD without sleep problems. These study findings were recently published in Sleep Medicine.
Climate Change & the Brain
Changes in the environment due to climate-related events are impacting how the brain develops
Gut microbiota linked to functional changes in psychiatric disorders, study reveals
A study of individuals with various psychiatric disorders found that gut microbiota composition is associated with changes in psychological functioning. Specifically, the researchers identified associations between functional domains—negative valence, social processes, cognitive systems, and arousal/regulatory systems—and the abundance of eight microbial genera in the gut. The research was published in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity.
Can apps and digital resources support your child with autism or ADHD? Here’s what to look for
Neurodevelopmental conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism affect about one in ten children. These conditions impact development, behaviour and wellbeing. But children with these conditions and their caregivers often can’t get the support they need. Families report difficulties accessing health-care providers and experience long wait lists to receive care. Digital tools, such as apps and websites, are often viewed as a solution to these gaps.
Neurodivergent adults share their challenges navigating holiday planning
A recent survey reveals that over half of the adults with neurodivergence say that it affects their budgeting and social gatherings during holidays.
5 ADHD-Friendly Ways to Make Your New Year Less Overwhelming
Key points: ADHD overwhelm typically occurs when the brain is struggling to manage and process too much information. High levels of stress overloads existing challenges with executive functioning skills in ADHD. Multitasking doesn't exist in the brain, so opt for doing tasks one at a time and practice self-care daily. Set realistic expectations for yourself (and your family) based on what is actually achievable.