ADHD in the News 2024-08-01

Stimulant medications normalize brain structure in children with ADHD, study suggests

Researchers have found evidence that children with high levels of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms show structural brain abnormalities, but treatment with stimulant medications can normalize these differences. This study, published in Neuropsychopharmacology, compared brain structures among children with varying levels of ADHD symptoms and medication use, offering insights into how these medications may help beyond symptom management.



Neurodivergent children face higher risk of chronic disabling fatigue by 18, study finds

A recent study published in BMJ Open reports that neurodivergent traits in childhood increase the risk of chronic disabling fatigue (CDF) at 18 years. What is CDF? CDF can accompany various medical conditions, such as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS) or long coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To date, it remains unclear what risk factors may cause certain patients to be more susceptible to the development of chronic fatigue than others.



For Mainers with ADHD, getting medication is a full-time job

Jeremiah is in his early 20s and works for a beverage distributor in Bangor, Maine. He began taking medication to treat his ADHD after college and is now prescribed Adderall. “I take it every morning, usually around like seven or eight [a.m.]," he said. "But then on weekends when I wake up at nine, it can be a little later.”



RFK Jr thinks government should send ‘addicts’ to tech-free ‘wellness farms’ and grow organic food

[Excerpt] A large number of people could be caught up in these proposed policies should they materialize as Kennedy is pitching that not only users of illegal drugs be sent to the wellness farms, but also users of antidepressants and ADHD medications.



Dr. Gary Swanson on the potential link between the impacts of ADHD on sleep behavior

If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, a sleep specialist may be the next step. Some research suggests a link between the behavioral disorder and sleep apnea. Dr. Gary Swanson, a psychiatrist with AHN, joined us to give some helpful advice to parents.



ADHD goes to camp: A lesson in inclusivity

My 6-year-old son has severe hyperactive ADHD, attention deficit hyperactive disorder. With this comes a delay in his social emotional development and a struggle to transition into new environments.



‘I was desperate’: The ads for unlicensed ADHD meds getting banned

As the global shortage of ADHD medication continues, some people have told us they’re turning to unlicensed products being advertised to them online, in desperation.



Tilda Swinton to Narrate Interactive ADHD Documentary ‘Impulse’

The mixed reality documentary from directors May Abdalla and Barry Gene Murphy will premiere at the Venice Immersive program of the 2024 Venice Film Festival.