ADHD in the News 2024-09-12

High Doses of ADHD Meds Could Trigger Psychosis

THURSDAY, Sept. 12, 2024 (HealthDay News) -- Prescriptions for amphetamine stimulants to treat ADHD have increased significantly in recent years, particularly during the pandemic. Unfortunately, high doses of stimulants like Adderall can increase the risk of psychosis or mania by more than fivefold, a new study finds.



Hopeful News for Users of One A.D.H.D. Drug

Patients and caregivers have struggled for two years to find stimulant medications like Adderall, Vyvanse and Concerta to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Some spend hours each month going from pharmacy to pharmacy to find a drug, while others are forced to switch to a different brand or formulation, or go without medication for weeks.



Families struggle as ADHD medication costs skyrocket

MARION, Iowa (KCRG) – An Iowa mother said a recent job change also meant a change to her insurance. Heidi Hora said she is now paying exponentially more for an ADHD medication for her son. She said it took years and trying multiple drugs for her to figure out which medication worked best. After several attempts, they finally found one that worked: Concerta.



Dyslexia and ADHD share genetic links, study shows

Scientists have shed new light on the genetic basis of dyslexia, showing how it overlaps with that of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study, led by the University of Edinburgh, is the first to explore the genetic links to dyslexia—believed to affect 10 percent of the population—in the context of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric traits.



Excessive mind wandering mediates link between ADHD and depression/anxiety, study finds

A study of adults diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) suggests that excessive mind wandering, rumination, and decreased mindfulness may mediate the link between ADHD symptoms and depression/anxiety. ADHD may predispose individuals to excessive mind wandering, rumination, and reduced mindfulness, which in turn can lead to more severe symptoms of depression and anxiety. The paper was published in Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy.



Neurodivergent women ‘urgently’ need workplace support around menstrual health

Neurodivergent women at work are often managing—and hiding—severe psychological distress related to their menstrual health, new research from Heriot-Watt University suggests. In a new report, business management researchers at the University say there is an "urgent need" to explore support for neurodivergent women in the workplace, particularly those who are managing problematic menstruation and perimenopause—the transition phase leading up to menopause.



Teen brains ‘aged’ during Covid lockdowns, new research suggests

Brain scans show that girls were especially affected by the loss of social interaction.



Does fidgeting really help you focus?

According to science, it depends.



How can dogs help with ADHD?

Have you ever experienced sudden relief from anxiety when greeted by your furry best friend? Raising a pet can bring much more joy to your life. However, turns out, they can also be beneficial for improving ADHD symptoms and helping promote mindfulness.



Opinion: Breaking the stigma to understand ADHD

Every time I mention I have ADHD, the usual reaction is an indifferent shrug or a casual answer like “Doesn’t everybody?” This is infuriating. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is regularly mocked and misapprehended as it appears to be just a refusal for idleness and daydreaming. But the problem with ADHD sufferers is that it’s a real ailment that influences all aspects of our lives.