Acetaminophen in pregnancy linked to higher risk of ADHD and autism
Report supports earlier studies linking acetaminophen exposure in utero with a higher risk of later diagnosis of ADHD and ASD.... Read More...
ADHD
Young moms more likely to have kids with ADHD
While there is a clear genetic link between young mothers and ADHD in their children, the association is not necessarily causal.... Read More...
Mice, like humans, fidget when deep in thought
Just like humans, mice fidget more while deep in thought. ... Read More...
Autoantibodies in pregnancy: A cause of behavioral disorders in the child?
Embryonic damage caused by autoantibodies is implicated in a range of behavioral and psychological disorders, including schizophrenia, autism, and ADHD.... Read More...
Early maternal anemia tied to intellectual disability, ADHD and autism
Children born to mothers diagnosed with anemia before the 31st week of pregnancy were at a higher risk of developing ADHD, ASD, and other intellectual disabilities than children born to mothers diagnosed with anemia during the final weeks of pregnancy. The risk of being diagnosed with autism was 4.9% higher for those born to mothers who experienced early pregnancy anemia. For ADHD, those born to anemic mothers had a 9.3% higher risk than those born to mothers who developed the condition during late pregnancy.... Read More...
Childhood behavior linked to taking acetaminophen (paracetamol) in pregnancy
Study finds an association between acetaminophen use during mid-to-late pregnancy and increased risk of hyperactivity, attention problems, and other behavioral deficits in young children. Boys appear to be more susceptible to the adverse effects acetaminophen use during pregnancy. However, the negative effects only seem to persist during the early years of life.... Read More...
Micronutrients affect gut bacteria associated with ADHD in small but promising study
A small-scale study found children with ADHD who took micronutrients had lower levels of gut bacteria previously linked to the disorder, and a healthier range of overall microbiota. The study indicates micronutrient supplements could be a safe therapy for those with ADHD. Researchers stress further research is needed.... Read More...
ADHD medication may affect brain development in children
Methylphenidate, a drug given to help treat ADHD, affects specific tract in white matter in young boys. The effects are age dependant as the changes were not observed in adults who use the treatment. Researchers say the drug should only be given to children if they are significantly affected by ADHD in their daily lives.... Read More...
Genes underscore five psychiatric disorders
Nineteen gene sets have been identified that contribute to at least five psychiatric disorders. The gene sets were associated with ADHD, ASD, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and schizophrenia. ... Read More...
Brain protein mutation from child with autism causes autism-like behavioral change in mice
Researchers implanted a genetic mutation that encodes the DAT protein from a child with ASD into mice. The mice began to exhibit autism-like behavioral deficits. Mice with the DAT T356M mutation had reduced social interaction and a loss in social dominance. The mice also demonstrated an increase in hyperactivity. At the physiological level, the researchers found impaired striatal dopamine transmission and clearance.... Read More...
Autism and sensory processing: Avoiding the sensory overload at the root of meltdowns
Sensory processing difficulties associated with ASD, ADHD, and PTSD often result in 'meltdown' behaviors. While researchers are making headway into discovering the mechanisms behind sensory dysfunction, many in society do not understand the implications of the disorder. Researchers tackle how to prevent meltdowns associated with sensory processing disorders, and consider how social inclusion can help break the stigma.... Read More...
We know contact with nature makes you feel better. Can virtual contact do the same?
The positive effects of spending time with nature on psychological wellbeing and health are well documented. However, not everyone can enjoy a trip to a green-space. New research suggests virtual exposure to nature via augmented reality and movies can mimic the effect and provide a boost to wellbeing.... Read More...