ADHD in the News 2016-07-28
ADHD is now classified as a specific disability under federal civil rights law
The U.S. Department of Education has issued guidelines aimed at preventing schools from discriminating against the growing numbers of students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In a letter to school districts and a “know your rights” document to be posted on its website Tuesday, the department said schools must obey existing civil rights law to identify students with the disorder and provide them with accommodations to help them learn.
ADHD medication reduces risky behavior in children, teens, research finds
Based on an analysis of Medicaid claims for nearly 150,000 children diagnosed with ADHD in South Carolina between 2003 and 2013, researchers including Princeton University postdoctoral associate Anna Chorniy found treatment with ADHD medication made children less likely to suffer consequences of risky behaviors such as sexually transmitted diseases, substance abuse during their teen years and injuries.
Web technology can improve care for ADHD
New web-based technology is helping pediatricians manage growing case-loads of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The web-based solution helps reduce ADHD behavioral symptoms in children receiving care at community pediatric practices by coordinating care and ensuring patients get the most effective ADHD medications."
BPA plastics linked to ADHD in boys
Is bisphenol A (BPA) a smoking gun in ADHD? Data from the 2003-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) suggest that exposure to BPA—a plastic commonly used in baby bottles, water bottles, and food storage containers—may be at least be a contributing factor. The data also confirm that boys are more susceptible than girls.
Common brain changes found in children with autism, ADHD and OCD
A team of Toronto scientists has found similarities in brain impairments in children with autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). The study, published this month in the American Journal of Psychiatry, involved brain imaging of white matter in 200 children with autism, ADHD, OCD or no diagnosis.
ADHD commonly co-occurs with other mental health diagnoses
It's common for adults with ADHD to also have a co-occurring mental health diagnosis, according to a study published in Comparative Psychiatry. Rates of mental health disorders are significantly higher among adults with ADHD, suggesting that ADHD itself may be a predictor of other mental health difficulties.
Adult ADHD: 5 more tips for managing technology
Psychotherapist and ADHD coach Terry Matlen, MSW, ACSW, believes that technology is a double-edged sword for adults with ADHD. It helps you be efficient. But it also distracts you from your work...In a previous piece we shared five suggestions on managing technology so it doesn’t manage you—everything from tracking your use to, ironically, using apps to block the internet. Below are five more tips and tricks to try, some of which also include using apps to your advantage.
4 surprising facts about the long-term effects of ADHD in women
A July 2016 study examined the effects of a childhood ADHD diagnosis in longevity – and found surprising results. According to a recent journal article in Child: care, health and development, women who self-reported an ADHD diagnosis were found to have increased risks of developing a mental health condition later in life, along with increased potential for suicidality.
Millions of adult women have ADHD. So why does it feel so lonely?
Life as a 31-year-old with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) presents certain challenges for Erin Soto, a stay-at-home mom with 7- and 9-year-old boys...she manages her symptoms with a therapist ― and with lists. Every night before bed, Soto meticulously outlines what she needs to accomplish the next day, a tool that helps keep her focused, but that can also exacerbate her anxiety.