ADHD in the News 2019-10-24

Traits of autism, attention deficit linked to small brainstem

The severity of autism tracks closely with that of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and the brainstem may underlie this connection: Children with either condition who have a small brainstem tend to have severe traits. The results point to the potential importance of the brainstem in both conditions, which often co-occur, researchers said today at the 2019 Society for Neuroscience annual meeting in Chicago, Illinois.



Young mums more likely to have kids with ADHD

Young mothers have a greater chance of having a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) according to new research from the University of South Australia. Published in Nature’s Scientific Reports, the research explored the genetic relationship between female reproductive traits and key psychiatric disorders, finding that the genetic risk of ADHD in children was strongly associated with early maternal age at first birth, particular for women younger than 20.



Patients with comorbid autism and ADHD can safely take ADHD medication

Patients with autism spectrum disorder and co-occurring ADHD can safely and effectively take medication for ADHD, according to a study conducted in the Netherlands and published in Journal of Attention Disorders.



Persistent ADHD Marginally Associated With Bipolar Disorder in Children

Study data published in the Journal of Child Psychology & Psychiatry suggest that although attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and bipolar spectrum disorder (BPSD) are independently occurring diagnoses, persistent ADHD may mediate later risk for BPSD.



Reports expand mental health competencies, strategies for practice

Pediatricians have unique opportunities to integrate mental health care into practice given their longitudinal, trusting and empowering relationships with patients and their families. Their role in combating the mental health crisis is critical given this “pediatric advantage” along with a growing responsibility to promote healthy social-emotional development of children and address mental health and substance use problems.



Not All Screen Time Is Bad for Kids, but Know the Consequences

Despite common warnings that screen time and social media are bad for children, the effects are likely to be nuanced, according to a new report from the Child Mind Institute. The report, which is a deep dive into the effects of social media and gaming on child mental health, is intended to take a topic popular in the media and important to parents and "provide the best distillation" on up-to-date science, David Anderson, PhD, a reviewer of the report, told Medscape Medical News.



What Is ADHD Coaching and How It Can Help

ADHD coaching is a type of complementary treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Read on to find out what it involves, as well as its benefits, effectiveness, and cost...According to Children and Adults with ADHD (CHADD), a nonprofit advocacy organization for people with ADHD, stressful life circumstances and chronic illnesses may also affect the outcome of coaching.



How to be Your Own ADHD Coach

My role as their coach is to help them clarify their goals, identify potential barriers, and create a plan for success. In essence. I’m really teaching them the skills to act as their own coach after our weekly sessions eventually come to an end. Here’s how you can tackle your ADHD-related challenges like a coach.



3 Simple Tips For Parenting A Child With ADHD (When You Have ADHD, Too!)

You're not only parenting a child, but you are also parenting a complex child, while you yourself are complex...So if you're struggling to find a healthy family balance, here are three suggestions on how to parent your child with ADHD when you have ADHD, too: