ADHD in the News 2022-07-21

Maternal milk tied to better school-age outcomes for children born preterm

In a study that followed preterm infants for seven years, investigators found that children who received greater quantities of maternal milk both during and after time in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) had greater academic achievement, higher IQs and reduced ADHD symptoms.



Sleep Disturbances in Childhood May Predict Future Symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Parent-reported sleep disturbances predicted increased symptomology of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the future, according to study results published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.



Amy Licis, MD: 4 Options for Children with Autism, ADHD who Struggle with Sleep

In an interview with HCPLive, Amy Licis, MD, MSCI, Associate Professor, Pediatric Neurology and Sleep Medicine, Washington University Department of Neurology, spoke about the significance of addressing sleep dysfunction in children with autism or ADHD and the different treatment options available.



CHOP Researchers Develop Algorithm to Help Distinguish ADHD Symptoms from Related Conditions

Researchers from the Center for Applied Genomics (CAG) at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) have developed an algorithm that uses existing electronic health records to distinguish patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) alone versus patients who present with ADHD and a variety of related comorbid conditions. This method could help reduce the diagnostic odyssey that many patients with this condition face and help direct them toward more personalized treatment options. The findings were recently published in the journal Neurodevelopmental Disorders.



The Video Game Treatment

What if instead of pills to cure what ails you, you were prescribed a video game? Over at Akili Interactive, researchers are trying to do just that. EndeavorRX is the first ever FDA approved video game for medical treatment, in this case for ADHD in children. We dive into the science behind the treatment and how video games have the potential to be used for other cognitive dysfunctions, including autism, depression and multiple sclerosis.



Most Antipsychotics During Pregnancy Do Not Increase Neurodevelopmental Risks

The use of most antipsychotics during pregnancy does not appear to increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the offspring, according to a comprehensive study published in JAMA Internal Medicine. The one exception was in children whose mothers took aripiprazole during pregnancy, which was linked with a 36% increased risk of a diagnosis of a neurodevelopmental disorder.



Childhood symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and borderline personality disorder

Key Takeaways: Childhood attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, especially impulsivity, are associated with the development of borderline personality disorder (BPD) later in life.



Dietary Interventions for ADHD: Emerging Research and Considerations

There has been increasing interest in the role that diet and supplements play in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, from patients and researchers alike. Diet is an important treatment approach to consider, as it is a lifestyle change rather than a medication. Additionally, at least 10% to 30% of children with ADHD are non-responsive to, or experience adverse effects from, ADHD medications­­­­.1



Have a child with ADHD, anxiety or sensory concerns? Use these tips for smoother summer plans.

Travel can be difficult for anyone, especially for little ones – but there are ways to make your summer family vacation less stressful. "Switching up our day-to-day routine can be unsettling for many of us, but especially children who thrive in environments that are consistent and predictable. Add on top of that a child who struggles with anxiety, sensory issues, ADHD or other challenges, and traveling can prove to be quite stressful," explains Melissa Dowd, therapist at PlushCare, a virtual primary care and mental health platform.



Adults with untreated ADHD ‘lose jobs more frequently,’ says NYU psychiatrist: Here’s what you need to know

Leetal Platt had been working in film for several years when she decided to make the switch to fashion. She studied the field in programs in the U.S. and Europe, then began picking up assistant designer and sewing jobs in 2016. But the switch was a sharp one, and between the new 9-to-5 schedule and the hours of menial tasks ― assistant designers do a lot of data entry ― she found herself floundering.



ADHD and Hormonal Changes in Women

From monthly menstrual cycles that can leave you feeling exhausted, achy, and irritable to the hot flashes and mood swings brought on by menopause, many challenges and discomforts women experience can be blamed partially on hormones. Hormonal changes can present difficulties for all women, but for those with ADHD, it can be even more challenging.



How to Manage an Employee With ADHD

The Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 lists attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a cognitive (mental health) disability. It requires that employers don’t discriminate against employees with ADHD. You may find that some of your employees with ADHD are falling short of certain expectations, aren’t being productive, or aren’t feeling fulfilled at their jobs despite doing their best. If that’s the case, their working conditions may need to be tweaked to help them be more successful.