"Masc" is a debut feature film directed by Bertil Nilsson, focusing on Robin, a neurodivergent, gay, biracial British man navigating social interactions through various adaptive strategies. The film explores themes of masking and performative identity, highlighted by Joshua Griffin's compelling lead performance. Its experimental style and ambiguous narrative structure may limit its broader appeal but showcase the director's distinctive vision and the actor's talent.
ADHD drug prescriptions in the UK have increased sixfold since the start of the pandemic, according to new research. The significant rise is attributed to greater awareness and diagnosis of ADHD, as well as increased access to mental health services during lockdowns. Experts suggest the trend highlights a growing recognition of ADHD as a serious condition requiring medical intervention.
ADHD in women and girls is significantly underdiagnosed and undertreated, leading to worse long-term outcomes including higher risks of mental health issues, substance use, and multimorbidity. Research highlights that girls are often diagnosed later than boys, even when symptoms appear at the same age, and they are less likely to receive ADHD medication, often being prescribed antidepressants instead. The gender gap in ADHD recognition and treatment remains a critical issue, with long-term consequences for women’s health and well-being.
A government review in the UK is considering changes to ADHD diagnosis criteria due to concerns over rising numbers of people seeking assessments, which have surged from 40 children in the 1980s to over 800,000 currently. Experts warn that ADHD is being overdiagnosed, possibly driven by incentives such as access to benefits, and question whether the increase reflects genuine growth in the condition or other factors. While ADHD is a legitimate issue with real suffering, the article highlights the need to carefully assess how society responds to mental health challenges rather than focusing solely on diagnosis rates.
Thousands gathered at the Detroit Zoo for the Autism Hero Walk, the largest event in Michigan supporting the autism community. The event brought families together with a sense of community and celebration.
A 36-year-old autistic man, Lorenzo Lopez, was found dead in a van outside a Mesa program facility and died from heat exposure. Lopez, who had the mental capacity of a 5-year-old, was picked up by Pathways for Life for a day program but did not return home. The medical examiner's report cited "environmental heat exposure" as the cause of death, and staff members involved were placed on administrative leave during the investigation.
A 10-year-old boy with autism, Ollie Brunskill, was praised for his bravery after alerting his mother to a kitchen fire and safely carrying his baby sister outside. The fire, caused by a mandoline slicer left on a hot plate, was contained using a fire blanket and extinguisher, thanks in part to Ollie's calm actions and recent fire safety training. Local authorities and his school recognized his quick thinking and composure during the emergency.
Authorities are searching for an autistic woman who left her home and threatened to walk into traffic, prompting a missing person alert. The woman's family reported her disappearance after she expressed intentions to harm herself. CPSO is working to locate her and ensure her safety.
The rise in ADHD diagnoses among peri- and postmenopausal women is linked to hormonal changes during menopause, which can exacerbate previously hidden ADHD symptoms. Increased awareness and recognition of how ADHD presents in women, often through subtle signs like forgetfulness and emotional dysregulation, also contribute to more diagnoses. This convergence of biological and social factors highlights a critical time for women to seek support and diagnosis.
A mother of a non-verbal autistic boy tattooed a keyboard on her arm to help her son communicate when his AAC device fails. The idea came after an incident at a restaurant where her son used a paper keyboard to express his needs. The tattoo has inspired a viral video and an apparel line to assist other non-speaking autistic children.
A mother was found dead after waiting three years for an ADHD assessment, highlighting serious concerns about delays in mental health services. The case has sparked outrage and calls for urgent improvements in access to specialist care. The tragedy underscores the potential consequences of prolonged waits for essential medical evaluations.
While companies are increasingly hiring neurodiverse individuals, true neuroinclusion remains lacking, with many organizations failing to implement supportive policies and environments that allow neurodiverse employees to thrive. The article highlights a growing gap between hiring efforts and the deeper commitment required for genuine inclusion.
Hundreds gathered for the annual Northern New Jersey Empower Walk and 5K for Autism Speaks, an event dedicated to raising awareness and support for the autism community. Participants, including families, runners, and advocates, came together to promote understanding of autism and connect individuals with valuable resources and support networks. The event emphasizes creating a more inclusive society where people with autism are understood, valued, and supported.
The GamesIndustry.biz HR Summit will feature sessions on managing AI's impact, supporting neurodivergent teams, and building personal resilience in the games industry. These discussions, led by experts, aim to provide practical strategies for addressing key challenges in games workplaces. The event will take place in London and include insights from industry leaders and people professionals.
A comedy show in Tokyo uses ADHD-related humor to highlight the chaotic yet insightful nature of neurodivergent thinking. The performance, "Put a Pin in It: An ADHD Adventure!," features comedians openly embracing the scattered, spontaneous thought processes associated with ADHD. The show offers a unique glimpse into how ADHD can manifest in public, turning what is often seen as a flaw into a source of creativity and connection.
