Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Articles tagged with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Using real-time brain signals to predict and prevent attention lapses in kids
Group averages obscure how an individual’s brain controls behavior, Stanford Medicine study finds
A new Stanford Medicine study shows that brain-scan averages obscure individual brain dynamics, particularly in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. By analyzing data from over 4,000 children, researchers found distinct patterns of brain activity when data is analyzed individually versus as a group.
Optimizing a powerful tool for measuring brain activity
Research explores how differences in brain development, age, and sleep affect EEG signals recorded from awake individuals. The study reveals that brain signals during wakefulness depend on prior sleep, with effects differing between children and adults.
New CHOP study examines relationship between parenting and gaming disorder in young children with ADHD
A new CHOP study investigates the relationship between parenting and gaming disorder in young children with ADHD, finding that negative parenting behaviors are associated with an increased risk of problematic gaming. The study also highlights the importance of parental involvement in gaming and household limits on gaming consoles.
ADHD and chronic pain, an overlooked connection
A study published in Scientific Reports reveals a connection between ADHD-related traits and chronic pain, highlighting the importance of addressing ADHD in pain management. The research suggests that treating ADHD may help reduce chronic pain severity.
Preschool children born with heart defects have greater risk of developing behavioral problems
A recent study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics has found that preschool children born with heart defects are at a greater risk of developing behavioral problems, including ADHD and peer relationship issues. The study suggests that a cognitively stimulating home environment may help reduce this risk.
Age at first ADHD diagnosis and educational outcomes
A cohort study found that individuals diagnosed with ADHD at a younger age tended to perform better academically, receiving more education and experiencing lower dropout rates compared to those diagnosed closer to age 16. This suggests that targeted support for early diagnoses could help prevent school dropout.
Exercise that trains brain and body helps managing ADHD-related difficulties
A 12-week integrated cognitive-motor exercise program reduced core ADHD symptoms in children, producing stronger improvements in inhibitory control and immediate working memory compared to aerobic exercise alone. The combined training also eased inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity, improving key executive functions.
Long wait for child ADHD assessments leaves parents stressed and struggling
A new study reveals that over 63% of children waiting for an ADHD assessment with CAMHS spend more than a year on the list, while a third wait over two years. Parents experience significant distress due to lengthy wait times, feeling powerless and uncertain about their child's future.
ADHD medication in childhood may reduce later psychosis risk, landmark study finds
A landmark study published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests that ADHD medication in childhood may reduce the risk of developing serious psychotic disorders later in life. The study found no evidence that treatment with methylphenidate increased the likelihood of psychosis in adulthood.
TikTok’s mental health ‘minefield’
A systematic review of social media platforms reveals that TikTok contains a substantial proportion of misleading information about mental health and neurodivergence, with higher rates of misinformation than other platforms. The study emphasizes the importance of credible sources and evidence-based content to combat spreading false ide...
Differences in brain activity between ADHD and neurotypical adults
Researchers found that adults with ADHD exhibit more sleep-like brain activity, leading to more lapses in attention. This increased activity may be a key brain mechanism underlying attention problems in ADHD. Further study is needed to explore potential strategies to mitigate this activity.
Teens and young adults with ADHD and substance use disorder face treatment gap
A new study in 15- to 25-year-olds finds that ADHD treatment improves outcomes for young people with ADHD and substance use disorder, including a 30% decrease in mortality. Despite being diagnosed with both conditions, young people are less likely to receive ADHD medication.
No overdiagnosis of ADHD, say experts
Experts warn that the lack of adequate diagnosis and treatment for ADHD is a pressing concern, with 27% of children and young people waiting over a year for an assessment. Effective treatments are available and backed by strong evidence, but significant barriers remain, including long waiting times and growing demand.
Doubling of new prescriptions for ADHD medications among adults since start of COVID-19 pandemic
New prescriptions for stimulants among adults with ADHD more than doubled since the COVID-19 pandemic, with the largest increases among younger adults. The trend is driven by improved recognition and treatment of ADHD in adulthood, as well as increased access to care and virtual health services.
Maternal acetaminophen use and child neurodevelopment
A study in Taiwan found a positive association between maternal prenatal acetaminophen use and increased risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in offspring. However, associations were not observed in sibling-matched analyses, suggesting unaddressed sources of bias.
Increased morbidity − but equally good quality of life for prematurely born adults
A Swedish study of prematurely born adults found increased morbidity in physical and mental health, yet they reported a high quality of life. The study, which followed participants from birth to age 26-29, suggests that premature birth does not necessarily limit daily life.
Continued exposure to certain heavy metals linked to ADHD in childhood
Research finds that children with higher levels of copper in their bodies are 16 times more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD. Exposure to heavy metals like lead and mercury also increases the risk of developing the disorder or worsening symptoms.
Childhood ADHD linked to midlife physical health problems
A large longitudinal study of people with childhood ADHD traits found a strong link between the condition and physical health problems in midlife. People with high ADHD traits at age 10 were more likely to have two or more physical health problems by age 46.
Updated "Treating and Preventing Adolescent Mental Health Disorders" published by Oxford
The updated edition provides a comprehensive overview of major mental health conditions that emerge during adolescence, discussing treatment strategies and prevention methods. The book emphasizes the importance of addressing stigma, promoting evidence-based treatments, and integrating positive youth development into policy agendas.
“My thoughts end up in the wrong place. They start to get all jumbled up where I should be concentrating.”
Researchers at Norwegian University of Science and Technology conducted an interview study with two students with inattentive ADHD to understand their experiences with autonomous learning. The study found that despite challenges, both students reported increased motivation and joy when given the freedom to choose their learning activit...
Brain stimulation device cleared for ADHD in the US is overall safe but ineffective
A large multicentre clinical trial of a brain stimulation device (TNS) for ADHD showed no significant change in symptoms. The study was conducted by King's College London and tested 150 children and adolescents, finding the device to be safe but ineffective.
Researchers survey the ADHD coaching boom
A study assessing ADHD coaching found that most coaches have ADHD themselves, providing unique benefits to patients. The field offers similar services to psychologists but operates outside of healthcare structures, lacking formal training or licensure.
Screening tool helps identify brain-related comorbidities in individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Researchers developed the BIND screener to identify brain-related comorbidities in individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The tool showed strong accuracy in identifying neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions in a large international sample of participants.
FAU study reveals social, family and health factors behind teen bullying
Adolescents bullied or engaging in bullying face lasting mental, physical and social challenges. The study identified socioeconomic disadvantages, race, physical differences, and pre-existing health conditions as risk factors for bullying.
What if ADHD risk isn’t fixed at birth, but shaped by how early environments interact with a child’s sensitivity?
A longitudinal study of 125 children found that early environmental factors can predict ADHD, with infants showing high motor activity benefiting from rich home environments. This sensitivity is linked to better cognitive functioning and fewer ADHD symptoms in later childhood.
Stimulant ADHD medications work differently than thought
A study found that prescription stimulants primarily affect brain's reward and wakefulness centers, rather than attention circuitry. This leads to improved focus through increased motivation and reduced sleep deprivation effects.
Researchers identify gene that calms the mind and improves attention in mice
Researchers identified the Homer1 gene as a key player in shaping attention, revealing its potential therapeutic benefits for ADHD. Lower levels of specific versions of Homer1 improved focus by reducing brain noise in mice, suggesting a novel approach to calming the mind and improving attention.
Familial patterns in criminal conviction risk observed among individuals with ADHD
A large-scale study found that individuals with ADHD are at higher risk of being convicted of crimes compared to those without ADHD. Relatives of individuals with ADHD also show increased risk, even if they themselves do not have ADHD. Early identification and treatment of ADHD in high-risk families may help mitigate these risks.
Study links ADHD to a measurable brain activity pattern, with early signs it may be modifiable
A new study identifies a distinctive brain activity pattern in children with ADHD, which may be modified using non-invasive brain stimulation and cognitive training. The pattern, known as aperiodic EEG activity, reliably distinguished children with ADHD from their peers.
Sharp rise in ADHD stimulant prescriptions in Ontario, research finds
A new study found a significant rise in ADHD stimulant prescriptions in Ontario, with a 157% increase from 2015 to 2023. The study calls for better clinical guidance to ensure medications are prescribed appropriately and prevent adverse health effects.
Population-level trends in ADHD medication prescribing
A repeated cross-sectional study found a significant increase in stimulant prescribing for ADHD, with the largest acceleration observed among female adolescents and young adults aged 18 to 64. The study's findings are consistent with prior research but provide new insights into population-level trends.
ADHD prescriptions on the rise, study finds
A new study found that annual ADHD prescription rates increased by 157 percent in Ontario from 2015 to 2023, with significant increases in females and younger age groups. The authors suggest a potential rise in true cases of ADHD, improved diagnosis, or misdiagnosis as contributing factors.
Half of people arrested in London may have undiagnosed ADHD, study finds
A study suggests that one in two individuals arrested and detained in London may have undiagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), while one in 20 may have undiagnosed autism. Screening for neurodivergence could enable better support for vulnerable individuals.
School reopening during COVID-19 pandemic associated with improvement in children’s mental health
A study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that school reopenings significantly reduced mental health diagnoses among children, including anxiety and depression, by 43% compared to periods before schools reopened. The benefits were especially pronounced among girls.
Using social media may impair children’s attention
Children who spend a significant amount of time on social media platforms experience a gradual decline in their ability to concentrate. The study found no association between TV watching or video game playing and attention symptoms.
What can light show us about brain activity? Examining early neural and behavioral predictors of childhood ADHD
Researchers are using functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) to identify early signs of ADHD in infants and toddlers with a familial risk. Dr. Heather M. Joseph will discuss her findings on a upcoming webinar, highlighting the potential for early interventions to reduce symptoms and associated impairments.
Largest study reveals best treatment options for ADHD
The largest review to date found that medication for children and adults, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy for adults, are the most effective approaches for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Researchers developed an interactive website to present findings and help people with ADHD make informed treatment decisions.
Family dogs’ ADHD-like traits are linked to learning and self-control
Researchers found that dogs with stronger ADHD-like traits were slower to learn new information, but improved with repetition and sufficient sleep. The studies also revealed a link between ADHD-like traits and self-control in dogs, suggesting that cognitive training and sleep can mitigate these impairments.
Rare genetic variants can increase the risk of ADHD by up to 15 times
A new study from Aarhus University identifies rare genetic variants that increase the risk of ADHD by up to 15 times. These variants are particularly expressed in nerve cells and disrupt development and communication between them.
Discontinuation of ADHD medication more common in children with underweight
A study published in Pediatric Drugs found that children and adolescents with underweight are more likely to discontinue ADHD medication within a year. The researchers also found clear differences in dosage, gender, and age that can affect treatment outcomes.
Rise in ADHD diagnoses can leave parents confused about ‘typical’ behavior for kids
A new book by experts highlights how the prevalence of ADHD and autism spectrum disorder has increased, but suggests it may not be due to a genuine increase in cases. The authors argue that 'typical' behavior can vary greatly among children, and that acceptance and understanding of individuality is key.
Closed-loop brain-body interface: brain and body team up to personalize mental health treatment
Researchers propose a closed-loop system combining peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) with brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) to personalize neuromodulation. This approach aims to address treatment-resistant depression and schizophrenia by dynamically tailoring interventions to individual neural signatures.
Omega-3 deficit linked to ADHD symptoms in Palestinian adolescents
A new study found a significant link between omega-3 intake and ADHD symptoms among Palestinian adolescents. Lower omega-3 consumption was associated with higher ADHD symptom scores, highlighting the importance of balanced nutrition in supporting cognitive health.
Study shows that ADHD awareness may lead to increase in false self-diagnosis, but intervention can help
A new study by University of Toronto researchers found that growing awareness of ADHD may lead some young adults to mistakenly believe they have the disorder. However, a short educational session on the nocebo effect reduced the likelihood of mistaken diagnosis.
New study finds novel link between shared brain-gene patterns and autism symptom severity in children with autism and ADHD
Researchers found a novel link between shared brain-gene patterns and autism symptom severity in children with autism and ADHD. The study suggests that focusing on specific symptom dimensions and their biological correlates may lead to more precise recognition and treatment approaches.
Existing evidence does not clearly link paracetamol use during pregnancy with autism or ADHD in children
Research finds existing evidence on paracetamol use during pregnancy does not clearly link it to autism or ADHD in children; studies suggest shared genetic and environmental factors within families may explain the observed risk. Women can be advised to take paracetamol when needed for pain and fever during pregnancy.
Meta-analysis offers reassurance that pregnant women can safely use acetaminophen
A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found no association between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism and ADHD. The study offers reassurance for pregnant women, public health agenci...
USC researchers use AI to uncover genetic blueprint of the brain’s largest communication bridge
The study identified dozens of genetic regions that influence the size and thickness of the corpus callosum and its subregions. The research team created an AI-powered tool that finds and measures the corpus callosum in brain MRI scans automatically, allowing for unprecedented analysis of brain structure at scale and precision.
ADHD: Women are diagnosed five years later than men, despite symptoms appearing at the same age.
Researchers found that females with ADHD are underdiagnosed and often receive a diagnosis five years later than males. They also exhibit greater emotional and functional difficulties.
Study confirms that people with ADHD can be more creative. The reason may be that they let their mind wander
A study confirms that people with ADHD can be more creative due to their tendency to let their minds wander. The research found that individuals with ADHD symptoms showed higher scores on creative achievements and were associated with greater mind wandering, particularly deliberate mind wandering.
People with self-diagnosed ADHD report more negative self-image and more internalized stigma than clinically diagnosed individuals, and are more likely to seek social validation, per analysis of 450,000 ADHD sub-reddit posts
A study analyzing 450,000 ADHD subreddit posts found that people with self-diagnosed ADHD experience more negative self-perception and internalized stigma than those with a clinical diagnosis. Clinically diagnosed individuals are less likely to seek social validation, highlighting the impact of digital age validation on mental health.
$3.6M NIH grant to study brain patterns in children with ADHD, behavior problems
The study aims to identify better ways to predict which children with ADHD will benefit from medication treatment. Researchers will examine how the brain processes reward and frustration to understand why some children show improvements with ADHD medication while others do not.
Prescribed opioid pain medications during pregnancy likely aren’t associated with increased risk of autism, ADHD
A Swedish study of over 1.2 million children found no significant association between prenatal exposure to opioids and increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The researchers attributed the observed differences in ASD rates among exposed versus unexposed children to other pre...
Peer-reviewed study validates Mentavi’s online ADHD diagnostic evaluation in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
A peer-reviewed study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry validates Mentavi's online ADHD diagnostic evaluation, demonstrating its accuracy and reliability compared to traditional face-to-face clinical interviews. The study provides evidence-based support for telehealth access for adults with ADHD, addressing gaps in care c...
Novel accurate approach improves understanding of brain structure in children with ADHD
Researchers developed a new method to correct for variations in brain imaging measurements, reducing bias and increasing the accuracy of studies on ADHD. The traveling-subject method demonstrated reduced measurement bias while maintaining sampling bias, revealing decreased brain volume in critical regions for cognitive functions.
A diagnostic system developed for identifying ADHD-suspected dogs
A new diagnostic system has been developed to identify ADHD-like symptoms in family dogs. The system combines owner-rated questionnaires with a short behavioral test to assess inattention, excessive activity, and impulsivity levels.
ADHD drugs are being prescribed too quickly to preschoolers
A Stanford Medicine-led study found that many young children with ADHD are prescribed medication just after diagnosis, contradicting treatment guidelines. The study highlights a gap in medical care for 4- and 5-year-olds with ADHD, who should try six months of behavior therapy before starting medication.
Community-based approach boosts family engagement in ADHD care
A novel community-based intervention increases treatment utilization among families with children who have ADHD. The pilot study found that caregivers reported feeling more confident and likely to seek treatment after participating in the program.