New ADHD diagnosis pathways in New Zealand remain inaccessible due to unmet public funding and high private assessment costs, leading students to seek prescription stimulants on the black market. Students are purchasing ADHD medications for as little as $6 per pill through informal networks, often without proper medical oversight, highlighting a significant gap in mental health support for students. The article reveals a thriving underground market for stimulants, with students buying and selling medication through platforms like Signal, often without knowing the true contents or risks involved.
A 2025 study suggests that amlodipine, a common blood pressure medication, may help treat ADHD, as it significantly reduced hyperactivity and impulsivity in animal models. The drug showed comparable effects to methylphenidate (Ritalin) in zebrafish and was associated with lower risk-taking behavior in humans taking it for hypertension. These findings indicate amlodipine could be a viable candidate for further research and potential repurposing as an ADHD treatment.
A new Catholic initiative, Catholic Autism UK, founded by an autistic deacon, aims to help parishes identify and remove barriers that may make attending Mass challenging for people with autism. The initiative highlights how sensory and social aspects of church services can be overwhelming for autistic individuals, and seeks to create more inclusive environments. Deacon Mark Paine, who was diagnosed with autism in his late 40s, shares his personal experiences and those of his autistic children to raise awareness and promote understanding within the Church.
Autism training significantly reduced police officers' stigma toward autistic individuals, according to a study involving over 400 officers across California and Florida. However, the impact on attitudes was complex, with some unexpected outcomes depending on the training format and duration. The study highlights the potential of targeted training to improve interactions but also underscores the need for more comprehensive approaches to address deeper biases.
Leeds station has been awarded the National Autistic Society’s Neuroinclusive Access Silver Award for its efforts to improve the travel experience for neurodivergent passengers. The award recognizes initiatives such as autism awareness training and environmental adjustments that help create a more inclusive and supportive environment. The success highlights the positive impact of small, thoughtful changes in making rail travel more accessible for neurodivergent individuals and their families.
Brain scans reveal that conditions like dementia, schizophrenia, and addiction are linked to accelerated brain aging, with Alzheimer's and mild cognitive impairment showing the strongest associations. Different disorders affect distinct brain regions, suggesting varied underlying biological processes. The study highlights potential biomarkers for brain disorders through patterns of brain aging.
A new study suggests that omega-3 supplements may provide a modest benefit in reducing ADHD symptoms in children. However, the effect was small and not sufficient to replace standard treatments. The findings highlight the need for further research on the role of nutrition in ADHD management.
Telehealth services are increasingly being used for ADHD assessments as patients face long wait times and high costs for in-person consultations. Since February, GPs and nurse practitioners can diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication, but many practices do not offer the service, leading patients to seek virtual alternatives. Despite the financial burden, patients report significant improvements in their quality of life after receiving a diagnosis through telehealth.
East Java has enacted a new regulation to enhance disability rights by establishing an independent advocacy body, the Regional Disability Commission (KDD), and mandating increased employment quotas for people with disabilities. The regulation shifts from a charity-based approach to a rights-based framework, requiring public and private employers to hire a minimum percentage of disabled workers and improving access to public services and transportation. The regulation aims to ensure equal opportunities and inclusive policies in education, employment, and economic activities.
A scientist who co-authored a 2002 study showing no link between the MMR vaccine and autism pleaded guilty to financial fraud, reviving online claims that the study's credibility is compromised. However, experts emphasize that the scientific consensus on vaccine safety is supported by multiple studies, not just the 2002 paper. The fraud case does not affect the validity of the research findings.
Huda Zoghbi identified the MECP2 gene, which is responsible for Rett syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder primarily affecting girls. Her research demonstrated that MECP2 variants disrupt gene regulation, leading to severe neurological symptoms. Zoghbi's work using mouse models has provided critical insights into the mechanisms underlying the disorder and potential therapeutic approaches.
The first neurodivergent day program in southeast Florida, Northstar Day Program, has opened in Palm Beach Gardens, offering education, therapy, and behavioral health care for children aged 5 to 12 with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergences. Over 100 people attended the opening, including state and county representatives, and the program aims to expand in the near future.
The UK government has provided guidance to employers on how to better support neurodivergent employees in the workplace. The advice includes practical steps to create more inclusive environments and improve understanding of neurodivergence. Key recommendations focus on flexible working practices, training for managers, and fostering a culture of acceptance.
Javed Abidi's experience at Indira Gandhi International Airport in 2015 highlighted the persistent challenges faced by persons with disabilities in accessing dignified travel experiences. His encounter with CISF personnel, where he was asked to transfer from his wheelchair for a security check, underscored the gap between policy and practice in disability rights. The incident, along with a later accessibility issue at CISF Headquarters, prompted a reevaluation of how security procedures and facilities can better accommodate and respect the dignity of disabled individuals.
Human brain organoids transplanted into mice with an engineered absence of cerebral cortex integrate into the host's nervous system, forming functional circuits that support electrical activity. This xenocortical model provides a novel platform to study human brain development and neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and epilepsy, as well as test potential treatments. The approach overcomes limitations of traditional models by allowing human neurons to mature and form complex circuits in a living system.
Indiana children with autism rely on Medicaid-funded applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, which is essential for their development and independence. Recent federal scrutiny and proposed policy changes, including lifetime treatment hour limits, threaten access to this critical care, despite ABA's proven effectiveness and medical necessity. These changes risk undermining the progress made by children and families who depend on timely and tailored autism therapy.
A Maryland administrative law judge criticized Montgomery County Public Schools for a policy she called a "blatant attempt" to circumvent federal disability law by requiring high-level approval for changing school placements of students with disabilities. The policy, created under the district's Chief Student Support Officer, conflicts with the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, which mandates that decisions about student placements be made by teams familiar with the student. The judge's ruling raises concerns about how the district has handled the education of students with disabilities.
Dr. Sara Rodrigues’ book, "Embracing Neurodiversity: A Social Work Approach to Building Inclusive Schools," advocates for a human rights-based, social work approach to support neurodivergent students in education. It challenges traditional compliance models and promotes inclusive environments through strengths-based, trauma-informed strategies that recognize neurodivergent learners as experts in their own experience. The book provides practical solutions to improve classroom inclusion, suggest policy reforms, and foster partnerships between families and educators.
Meghan Eveland, a local mother and advocate, is hosting an Eagles Autism Foundation event at Poppy’s Tavern to support autism research and care programs while bringing families together. Her daughter, Lexi, who was diagnosed with autism, has grown in confidence and become a source of inspiration for others, highlighting the transformative impact of the foundation's programs. The event aims to foster acceptance and provide a supportive community for children with autism and their families.
Loss of the protein UBAP2L in neural stem cells disrupts brain development and leads to autism-like behaviors in mice, providing direct evidence of its critical role in healthy cortical construction. The study demonstrates that UBAP2L is functionally required during embryonic brain development, as its absence results in structural brain abnormalities and behavioral deficits resembling autism spectrum disorder. The findings link rare human genetic variants of UBAP2L to neurodevelopmental disorders by showing the protein's essential role in cortical neuron production and organization.
Over five percent of six- to eight-year-old boys in Finland are taking ADHD medication, with the rate increasing slightly in recent years. The proportion of boys starting treatment varies significantly across regions, with North Savo having the highest rate and Helsinki the lowest. The article highlights a growing trend in ADHD diagnoses among young boys in Finland.
Most neurodivergent children have at least one neurodivergent parent, whether that parent has been formally diagnosed or not. This finding highlights a strong genetic or familial link between neurodivergence in parents and children. The article emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and empathy in parenting, especially when dealing with neurodivergent children.
Medicaid's Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) program is vital for families caring for children with disabilities, providing financial support and enabling care at home rather than in institutions. Recent federal policy changes, including cuts to Medicaid and restructuring of disability protections, threaten to force thousands of people with disabilities into institutional care and undermine critical support services. These cuts, aimed at reducing taxes for the wealthy and increasing spending on deportations and wars, risk dismantling essential care systems for vulnerable populations.
The Art Without ATTN Convention returns to Ferndale on October 10, showcasing work by neurodivergent artists with ADHD and autism. The event highlights the unique creative processes and perspectives of these artists, continuing the tradition started in 2023. Organized by ADHDalex, the convention aims to support and celebrate neurodivergent artistry.
A qualitative study reveals that neurodivergent young people in Australia face significant barriers when transitioning from child to adult mental health services, often leaving them without adequate support after age 18. The research highlights that rigid systems and lack of neuro-affirming care, rather than clinicians, are the main obstacles, leaving many unprepared for the transition and increasing the risk of disengagement from care. The findings emphasize the urgent need for more flexible and inclusive mental health services tailored to the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals.
A new B2B exhibition and conference, Neuroplaces, will launch in London's Shoreditch in September, focusing on neuroinclusive and accessible design. The event will bring together industry professionals, exhibitors, and specialists to promote inclusive environments in public spaces, featuring over 55 exhibitors and 34 conference sessions. Neuroplaces is also pioneering neuroinclusive event delivery with initiatives like quiet zones, sensory pods, and live captions.
A new documentary series, "Colors of the Spectrum," highlights the work of Marin's Autistry Studios, showcasing the creative and personal growth of autistic and neurodivergent young adults through art and storytelling programs. The series explores the origins of Autistry, its storytelling initiatives led by Ken Pontac, and its vocational training partnership with Double Rainbow ice cream. The project aims to demonstrate the capabilities and achievements of autistic individuals, emphasizing their potential to thrive in various aspects of life.
The award-winning short film "Love Zuri" highlights neurodiversity and autism, shedding light on the challenges and joys associated with these experiences. The film, produced and directed by Okema T. Moore, is set to premiere on the film festival circuit. Moore discussed the film's significance and his journey in filmmaking in an interview with Ann Nyberg.
Paid internships through the Change 100 programme have provided valuable opportunities for neurodivergent graduates in South Wales, helping them gain work experience and confidence. Ella Griffiths and Lewys Evans, both neurodivergent graduates, completed internships with Bellway Wales, with one extending her placement and considering further career opportunities with the company. The programme is praised for its supportive approach and effective onboarding process, aiding participants in transitioning into the workforce.
ADHD is a real neurodevelopmental condition affecting attention, impulsivity, and executive functioning, not a lack of effort or a social construct. The article highlights the importance of recognizing and supporting individuals with ADHD, especially adults who may have gone undiagnosed, and challenges the misconception that ADHD is simply a behavioral issue. It also raises questions about the definition of "normal" and the need for systems that accommodate neurodiversity.
The Parliamentary Caucus for Persons with Disabilities discussed a proposed bill to repeal the 1996 Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act and introduce new legislation aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Caucus emphasized the need for stakeholder consultations to resolve discrepancies in the draft bill and establish an independent monitoring mechanism. Discussions also focused on strengthening legal provisions related to employment rights and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.
Intellectual functioning significantly influences the relationship between sensory processing and adaptive behavior in autistic children. Executive functioning partially explains this relationship, but its role varies between preschool and school-age groups. Higher IQ is associated with better adaptive behavior, even when accounting for sensory and executive functioning differences.
The South Brunswick Public Library will host an Autism Resources Fair in October to provide information and support for individuals with autism and their families. The event will feature various organizations offering resources, services, and community connections. The fair aims to raise awareness and foster inclusion within the local community.
A study found that most public health institutions delayed responding to misinformation on social media linking acetaminophen use during pregnancy to autism, with only 21.5% of 65 audited accounts posting relevant corrections. The American Academy of Pediatrics was the fastest and most active in addressing the misinformation, but the average reading level of their posts was higher than the typical 8th-grade level. No state health departments addressed the topic, and children's hospitals took up to 51 days to respond.
A study of 2.5 million children found no association between receiving the MMR vaccine before age two and an increased risk of autism. The research, using an age-anchored landmark analysis, adjusted for various confounding factors and found that vaccine timing was not linked to autism diagnosis. This reinforces previous findings that the MMR vaccine does not cause autism, despite lingering parental concerns.
Three years after the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability released its recommendations, none have been fully implemented, with some showing no progress and one even regressing. The commission's findings revealed widespread violence and abuse against people with disability, leading to calls for a disability rights act and stronger oversight mechanisms. Despite the commission's extensive work and public engagement, significant challenges remain in translating its recommendations into real change.
A review into the rising prevalence and diagnosis of ADHD is expected to conclude that other conditions are being misdiagnosed as ADHD, raising concerns about the overuse of ADHD medications and the potential misuse of taxpayer funds in treating the condition. The findings highlight a growing debate over the accuracy of ADHD diagnoses and the implications for public health spending.
The manufacturer of Tylenol and several pharmacy chains are asking a US appeals court to reconsider a lower court's ruling that found them potentially liable for failing to warn about a possible link between acetaminophen and autism. The companies argue that the lower court's decision was based on flawed scientific evidence and legal reasoning. The case highlights ongoing legal and scientific debates over the safety of acetaminophen during pregnancy.
A study by UT San Antonio Health Science Center found significantly higher levels of toxicants in the primary teeth of children with autism compared to typically developing children, suggesting chronic and repeated exposure to numerous harmful chemicals. These chemicals, including those in baby products, food packaging, and fragrances, may impact development and the endocrine system, highlighting a need for further research into long-term exposure effects. The use of teeth as a biological record allowed researchers to detect cumulative chemical exposure over time, revealing a broader range of potential developmental toxicants than previously identified.
Civil rights enforcement cuts have significantly weakened the Office for Civil Rights' ability to address discrimination against students with disabilities, leading to fewer investigations and less support for families. Parents like Felicita Piñón have reported increased difficulty in getting responses to complaints, raising concerns about the future enforcement of federal special education laws. These cuts threaten the support system that many families rely on when schools fail to meet their obligations under disability rights laws.
