Key Points: DSM validity criticized; psychiatry should mirror other specialties’ research-based diagnoses. False DSM phenotypes may obscure true biomarkers/genetic signals in depression research. Current DSM structure may perpetuate outdated, weakly validated diagnoses incl MDD, ADHD, some personality disorders. Incremental DSM-5 revision may be insufficient if core diagnostic structure remains unchanged. ICD already supports coding; DSM…

New government statistics find four million people claimed disability benefits in April. 

The rise in the number of cases of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) always gets quite a bit of attention from both the public and the media. This has led to the rise of several misinformed theories about the cause. On the other hand, the increase in the number of people diagnosed…

Key point: Higher maternal vitamin D levels during pregnancy were associated with a decreased risk for autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in offspring.

A paper published in the leading journal Molecular Psychiatry on Friday 3 July at 1am British Summer time led by researchers from Queen Mary University of London and Royal Holloway, University of London challenges the way we think about neurodevelopmental conditions. The study suggests it would be better for experts to focus on a broad constellation…

Key point: Autism spectrum disorder was associated with elevated inflammatory cytokine levels, whereas attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder was linked to decreased inflammatory factors.

Women like me from strict immigrant families arrive at an ADHD diagnosis decades later

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition rooted in delayed or atypical maturation of the prefrontal cortex  (the brain region that governs self-regulation). This maturational lag underlies the hallmark difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, and also impairs what researchers call executive function: the cognitive toolkit we rely on for working memory, impulse control, mental flexibility, emotional…

Today’s post is the latest in a multiyear series in which students have been sharing their classroom experiences and offering advice to teachers.

Quick take: People with ADHD, especially teens and young adults, are more likely to get into car crashes and other driving accidents. Studies link unsafe driving with ADHD traits, including inattentiveness and emotional dysregulation. Experts recommend getting ADHD treatment, putting your phone away while driving, and using driving assistance tools to stay focused on the…

Despite the decline, public health concerns remain for a subset of adults who frequently misuse stimulant medications, according to an evidence review from the Keck School of Medicine of USC.

Health Care Fraud Unit Secures Result in Landmark Case Targeting Executives of Fraudulent Mental Health Technology Company The founder and former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ruthia He of Done Global Inc., a California-based digital mental health company, was sentenced today to six years in prison and a fine of $1 million for orchestrating a scheme…