ADHD in the News 2025-04-17
Have We Been Thinking About A.D.H.D. All Wrong?
With diagnoses at a record high, some experts have begun to question our assumptions about the condition — and how to treat it.
Understanding A.D.H.D.
What’s behind the surge in cases in the U.S.?
5 Takeaways From New Research About A.D.H.D.
Scientists who study the condition are wrestling with some fundamental questions about the way we define and treat it.
Beyond the ADHD Headlines: A Nuanced Look at Diagnosis, Drugs, and Daily Life
A recent New York Times Magazine article by Paul Tough raises questions about the increasing number of children diagnosed with ADHD and the long-term use of medication for the treatment of ADHD. While concerns about possible overdiagnosis of ADHD deserve careful attention, it is equally important to recognize that modern pressures — pandemic stress, relentless academic demands, and a digital culture that rewards constant multitasking — can unmask or worsen ADHD symptoms.
When a Small Rejection Feels Like ‘the End of the World’
For people who identify with “rejection sensitive dysphoria,” perceived criticism can be overwhelming.
Gestational diabetes linked to ADHD in children
An Edith Cowan University (ECU) study published in BMC Pediatrics has found children born to mothers who experienced gestational diabetes (GDM) during pregnancy are more likely to develop attention-deficient hyperactive disorder (ADHD) and externalizing behavior.
Food insecurity is associated with cognitive disengagement in adolescents
Adolescents who live in food-insecure households may be more likely to experience symptoms of cognitive disengagement, such as excessive daydreaming, confusion, and sluggish thinking, according to new research published in Research on Child and Adolescent Psychopathology.
Understanding ADHD in Adults
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was once thought to be a condition that only affects children, but awareness has grown that it often persists into adulthood. For many who are diagnosed as adults, it can make sense of difficulties they’ve long experienced.
Focusing on a child’s strengths can transform assessments – and help them thrive after an ADHD or autism diagnosis
[Excerpt] In a new research paper, we have developed a strengths checklist for parents, carers and clinicians to more easily identify children’s skills, talents and positive qualities – and understand the type of support they need at home, school or socially.
Immune system may shape ADHD risk, new genetic study suggests
A new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders has identified a two-way relationship between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the immune system. Using a genetic method known as Mendelian randomization, researchers found that ADHD is linked to increased levels of several immune cell traits. At the same time, they identified specific immune traits that appear to raise or reduce the likelihood of developing ADHD.
ChatGPT improves exercise for neurodivergent kids
A University of Michigan research team has used AI to help deliver exercise "snacks" to kids with autism. The research team, led by U-M exercise physiologist Rebecca Hasson, overhauled a program that aimed to help children exercise when families had to pivot to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Connecting Biology to Behavior: The Role of Genetics in ADHD
Key points: ADHD has a high rate of heritability. ADHD is associated with many genes expressed in brian regions associated with dopamine function. Environmental factors like childhood illness, low birth weight, and heavy metal exposure play a role in ADHD.
What a Hyperfixation Really Is
If you’re really into the TV show you’re bingeing, you might spend an entire weekend afternoon tearing through episodes—taking stretch breaks or refreshing Reddit or ordering takeout while you’re at it. Now, imagine taking it up a level. If you’re hyperfixated on that show, you’ll be so engrossed you’ll forget to eat or get up to go to the bathroom; you won’t check for new messages on your phone or collect the groceries the delivery guy dropped off, emerging only after you’ve finished the entire series.