Shane Jacobson, an Australian actor and co-owner of the Dederang Hotel, advocates for a neurodiverse world by highlighting the value and strengths of neurodivergent individuals through his personal experiences and lifestyle. He describes his home as a "house of happy tickers," emphasizing inclusivity and celebrating the unique qualities of neurodiverse people. Jacobson believes in promoting understanding and acceptance rather than merely championing neurodiversity.
Jools Oliver, 51, shares her experience of being diagnosed with ADHD and autism later in life, highlighting the emotional and physical toll it has taken, especially when combined with menopause symptoms. Research indicates that 94% of women report worsened ADHD symptoms during perimenopause and menopause, and nearly half of women with ADHD are diagnosed between 41 and 50, a period overlapping with perimenopause. Experts emphasize that ADHD in women often presents differently, with internalized symptoms, leading to delayed diagnoses and the importance of recognizing these signs for proper support.
The designation of "profound autism" aims to provide more accurate recognition and better access to necessary resources for individuals with severe developmental needs, rather than dividing the autism community. It highlights the distinct challenges faced by those requiring 24/7 care, who often lack the specialized support needed. Ensuring adequate funding and proper oversight is crucial to deliver appropriate care while respecting neurodiversity and protecting rights.
Employers can better support neurodiverse talent by creating inclusive workplaces with accommodations such as flexible work arrangements, quiet spaces, and access to mental health resources, which can improve productivity and reduce absenteeism. Many neurodivergent employees feel the need to mask their differences at work due to a lack of support, leading to lower inclusion and higher risks of job loss. Best practices include rethinking hiring processes to focus on ability rather than social conformity and providing tailored support based on individual needs.
Alnwick will host the Proud To Be Me Conference, aimed at helping neurodivergent young adults embrace their identity and voice their challenges. The event will take place on 30 October at Lindisfarne Centre and will include opportunities for attendees to discuss issues and improve service accessibility. The conference is organized by SpLinter Group and tickets are available online.
A new study identifies three functional subtypes of social behaviors in zebrafish linked to 11 autism-associated genes, using a deep-learning tool called ZeChat to classify behaviors and correlate them with responses to neuroactive drugs. The approach offers a framework for precision therapeutic discovery in autism research.
A study found that individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who also have epileptiform abnormalities (EAs) or epilepsy show significantly lower cognitive performance compared to those with ASD alone. The presence of EAs was linked to greater symptom severity, but no differences were observed in adaptive functioning or language abilities. The findings suggest that EAs may contribute to cognitive challenges in ASD, highlighting the need for further research on their long-term impact.
A new AI system uses eye gaze and attention patterns to screen for autism in Indian children with over 97% accuracy, offering a more objective alternative to traditional questionnaire-based methods. The system combines image analysis and video-based attention measurement, achieving high precision and recall on a balanced dataset of 14 autistic and 14 non-autistic children. Results show typically developing children exhibited significantly higher attention and engagement rates compared to autistic children.
The FDA has approved Neurora, a biometric tool that helps clinicians assess whether children aged 18 months to 12 years may have autism by analyzing video and audio data from behavioral evaluations. The device uses over 100 biometric indicators, such as facial expressions and eye gaze, to provide quantitative evidence to support diagnostic decisions. Neurora aims to enhance autism evaluations with objective data, complementing professional judgment rather than replacing it.
James Watt, diagnosed with autism and ADHD at 40, explains how his condition affects his emotional awareness in his relationship with Georgia Toffolo, making communication and connection more challenging. He acknowledges that his logical, risk-taking mindset has been an asset in business but requires adjustment in personal relationships. The couple is also navigating challenges with their attempts to conceive.
The Flemish Human Rights Institute's Disputes Chamber will hold a hearing on December 10, 2026, in Brussels to address a discrimination complaint by Stichting Uit met Autisme regarding Plopsa's accessibility policy, particularly at Plopsaland in De Panne. The foundation, led by Romano Sandee, is challenging Plopsa's current policy requiring supervisors for visitors with autism. Following the hearing, the foundation expects an opportunity for further questions.
Children with disabilities in India face significant delays and bureaucratic hurdles in obtaining the Unique Disability Identity Number (UDID), which is essential for accessing government benefits. The process involves lengthy medical assessments, which can take years to complete, as illustrated by the case of a mother struggling for over two years to secure the number for her autistic daughter. In Delhi, the average processing time for the UDID is over 218 days, highlighting systemic inefficiencies that disproportionately affect families with neurodevelopmental disabilities.
The Innovartism initiative in Kuwait aims to empower individuals with autism and other neurodiverse conditions through creativity, innovation, and professional development. It offers training programs, conferences, creative spaces, and media campaigns to support neurodiverse talents and raise awareness. The initiative also plans to showcase participants' work and foster collaboration with various partners to promote social inclusion and economic opportunities.
Italian nurses demonstrate good knowledge about childhood autism but feel largely unprepared to care for autistic patients in emergency and critical care settings. Despite scoring well on a knowledge test, over 90% reported feeling unprepared for autism-related care, and most had never received specific training on autism spectrum disorder. The study highlights a significant gap between knowledge and practical preparedness, with communication challenges and crisis management being major concerns.
Jools Oliver, Jamie Oliver's wife, has revealed she was diagnosed with autism and ADHD, stating that not knowing about her neurodivergence "ruined" her life for 45 years. She shared her experience during a podcast interview, explaining the emotional and social challenges she faced due to her conditions, and expressed fear about taking prescribed medication due to health anxiety. Her diagnosis came after realizing she shared behavioral traits with her children, who were diagnosed with autism.
Kuwait's Innovartism Initiative aims to support people with autism and other neurodiverse conditions by fostering their artistic talents and providing career development opportunities. The program offers training, creative platforms, and development programs to help participants gain recognition and access professional opportunities. It also seeks to raise awareness and promote inclusion through conferences, media campaigns, and a showcase event where participants can present their work.
The episode features a discussion between Gavin Carrig and Rachel Schieding about ADHD and its effects. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding and addressing ADHD through professional healthcare services. Westbrook Health Services is mentioned as a resource for support and treatment.
A Manx mother, Nichola Whitlam, has launched the 'Better Together, Awards of Excellence' to celebrate the everyday achievements of neurodivergent children and the adults who support them. The initiative, part of the Diverse Minds Community, aims to foster inclusion, understanding, and recognition of both visible and invisible accomplishments. Nichola also advocates for improved neurodiversity education in schools and has campaigned for mandatory training for educational staff.
A study by University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign researchers suggests that the neural signaling protein PSD-95 could be a therapeutic target for neurological disorders caused by deletions of the autism-linked gene MEF2C. Mice with MEF2C haploinsufficiency exhibited cognitive impairments and seizures, which were alleviated by reducing PSD-95 levels. The findings indicate that inhibiting PSD-95 may help restore cognitive function and reduce seizures in individuals with MEF2C haploinsufficiency and related disorders.
Neurodivergent employees often experience higher levels of exhaustion at work, highlighting the need for employers to address working conditions and individual needs rather than relying on assumptions. Adjustments such as clearer expectations, flexible working arrangements, and reduced interruptions can help create a more sustainable and inclusive workplace. Employers should proactively build flexibility and accessible practices into everyday routines to support neurodivergent employees effectively.
New ADHD formulations, including patches and a triple reuptake inhibitor, are expanding treatment options for adult ADHD. These innovations allow for more personalized care and improved patient adherence. The discussion emphasizes the importance of building patient trust when introducing novel delivery methods and medications.
A new hypothesis suggests that the success of reinforcement-based autism therapies depends on the fidelity of reward prediction errors, a measurable property combining four dimensions: temporal credit, contingency, prediction, and outcome value. This framework links Applied Behavior Analysis with computational reinforcement learning by formalizing how these dimensions interact multiplicatively in learning updates. The hypothesis provides nine testable predictions to distinguish it from alternative models and traditional measures of procedural fidelity in ABA.
A new interactive facility in Burlington offers neurodivergent community members a judgment-free, escape room-style financial education experience through WealthTrek, a program developed by Hanscom Federal Credit Union. The facility includes themed rooms covering auto financing, small business lending, and driving readiness, along with a virtual driving simulator designed to help individuals with disabilities build confidence. The program aims to provide a fun, risk-free way to explore financial concepts and ignite aspirations among participants.
New research suggests that ADHD medication should not be automatically discontinued during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as untreated ADHD can worsen during this period due to hormonal changes and increased stress. The decision to continue or stop medication should be based on individual factors, including symptom severity and potential risks, and should involve thorough discussion with healthcare providers. Emerging safety data indicate that medication can be considered safely in many cases, prompting a more balanced approach to treatment during perinatal periods.
The North East Boxing Organisation is supporting a King’s College London study examining the experiences of neurodivergent athletes and coaches in boxing to improve inclusivity. The research seeks input from adults aged 18 and over who are neurodivergent or have coached them, aiming to identify barriers and ways to make coaching environments more accessible. The study emphasizes understanding real experiences rather than relying on assumptions to inform more inclusive practices in boxing.
Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care has received Autism Friendly Designation for five new medical centers, including one in Syosset, expanding access to sensory-friendly care for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The designation requires staff training and facility modifications such as quieter exam rooms and dimmable lighting to create a more welcoming environment for patients and caregivers. The initiative aims to improve access to compassionate and inclusive healthcare for the neurodivergent community.
The Maldives' parliament unanimously approved the country's accession to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, allowing individuals to file complaints with a UN committee over alleged rights violations. The protocol, which entered into force in 2008, enables complaints after exhausting domestic remedies, with some exceptions. This move strengthens the Maldives' commitment to disability rights under international law.
Rare variants in the FOLR2 gene, which encodes a folate receptor, are associated with ADHD and pregnancy infections, suggesting a potential link between folate receptor function, brain development, and pregnancy health. The study highlights the importance of further research on this gene and its role in immune and developmental processes. Findings indicate that genetic variations in FOLR2 may contribute to various health conditions, though more research is needed to confirm these associations.
Sharjah Humanitarian City introduced an autism guide at the Sharjah International Book Fair, focusing on adolescence and autism spectrum disorder, offering concise, accessible information through knowledge cards and QR code videos. The initiative aims to address the evolving needs of autistic individuals throughout life, emphasizing support for independence, education, and employment. The "60 Seconds" series highlights the importance of tailored resources for different stages of life, promoting awareness and inclusion.
A study found higher levels of toxicants in the teeth of children with autism compared to those without autism. The research suggests a potential link between early life exposure to environmental toxins and the development of autism. The findings highlight the need for further investigation into how toxicant exposure may influence neurodevelopment.
Untreated adult ADHD imposes significant economic burdens due to medication shortages, high costs, and inadequate insurance coverage. Panelists emphasize that medication accessibility is crucial, as even effective treatments are useless if patients cannot obtain them. These barriers contribute to the real-world economic and personal toll of undertreated ADHD.
A new voting guide from disability advocacy groups outlines the rights of people with disabilities to vote, emphasizing the importance of understanding laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The guide provides detailed information on voter competency laws, guardianship, and assistance at the polls, aiming to help individuals with disabilities exercise their right to vote. It also includes a fact sheet for voters to bring to polling places and highlights the importance of provisional ballots if voting rights are challenged.
A wearable sensor worn on the finger can detect physiological changes in students with autism up to five minutes before behavioral escalations occur, according to a study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry. Using machine learning, the sensor's data achieved 85.2% accuracy in identifying pre-escalation states, suggesting potential for early intervention. The study highlights the feasibility of using autonomic nervous system signals as early-warning markers, though real-world effectiveness remains untested.
PETRONAS is shifting its approach to neurodiversity by recognizing it as a different way of thinking rather than a deficit, fostering an inclusive environment that supports neurodivergent employees. The company's Neurodiversity Centre of Excellence aims to enhance awareness, leadership readiness, and workplace support to better integrate and develop neurodivergent talent. Neurodivergent employees, like Solihin and Rashdaleena, bring unique strengths such as creativity and focus, but also face challenges that require tailored support and understanding in the workplace.
