People often talk about creativity and "out of the box" thinking as being one of the positive parts of having ADHD. Researchers at the University of Michigan have some data supporting that conclusion. To find out more, click on the link below.http://ur.umich.edu/1011/Feb14_11/2041-adults-with-adhd
Treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder with Medication
Questions about medication? This is a good, brief introduction to ADHD medication. It isn't comprehensive, but it gives you the basics. However, this is not an endorsement or recommendation for any other products or content on the New Ideas website.http://newideas.net/adhd/medication
A Procrastinators Story
By Timothy A. Pychyl, Ph.D., October 16, 2009This is an episode from an excellent podcast by Dr. Pychyl, a procrastination researcher. Procrastination is often a part of ADHD, but it can also be present in anxiety, depression, and other conditions. I chose to highlight this podcast because he reads a few emails from listeners who describe their difficulties with procrastination. Their descriptions are similar to many of the stories I've heard patients tell me over the years. The link takes you to the podcast on Dr. Pychyl's website, but you can also subscribe to the podcast through iTunes.http://iprocrastinate.libsyn.com/a_procrastinator_s_story
Research Links Pesticides With ADHD in Children
By The Associated Press, published May 17, 2010This is an article describing the recent finding that exposure to pesticides (organophosphates) has been correlated with the prevalence of ADHD. The level of exposure in the sample is relatively common among children in the US. As with any correlational study, it does not prove causation.http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2010/05/17/health/AP-US-MED-Children-Pesticides.htmlYou can also view the abstract of the original journal article in the journal Pediatrics in May 2010 by following the link below.http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/abstract/peds.2009-3058v1
Office Messes
By Lisa Belkin, 7/18/04This article discusses the adult ADHD diagnosis and how the syndrome plays out in the work place. The author chronicles the experiences of a few ADHD adults (both those who are thriving and those who struggle) as well as the intersection of ADHD, the workplace and the law.http://www.nytimes.com/2004/07/18/magazine/office-messes.html
Combination of ADHD and Poor Emotional Control Runs in Families, Study Suggests
ScienceDaily, published May 6, 2011This article describes how as many half of people with ADHD may also have poor emotional control and that both run in families. According to Craig Surman, MD, of the MGH Pediatric Psychopharmacology and Adult ADHD Program, the study's lead author, "Our findings also indicate that ADHD doesn't just impact things like reading, listening and getting the bills paid on time; it also can impact how people regulate themselves more broadly, including their emotional expression."http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/05/110505103341.htm
ADHD: Genetic Mutation May Be Key
WebMD Health News, By Daniel J. DeNoon and reviewed by Laura J. Martin, MDA particular "misspelling" in the genetic code of individuals with ADHD may make brain cells more excitable. This article discusses the preliminary evidence from research on mice. Mice that were genetically modified to have this specific mutation developed ADHD symptoms. When given stimulant medication, the symptoms decreased.http://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/news/20110418/adhd-genetic-mutation-may-be-key
The Art of ADHD and Engagement: Learning to Use Your Senses
By Kathryn GoetzkeThis article describes simple ways to be mindful in your everyday life. You can use these tools to ground yourself when your thoughts are racing or when you simply want to relax a little. For those of you familiary with DBT, this is also similar to items you might keep in a "distress tolerance kit."http://blogs.psychcentral.com/adhd/2011/04/the-art-of-adhd-and-engagement-learning-to-use-your-senses/
Brain is not fully mature until 30s and 40s
by Lin Edwards of PhysOrg.comThe prefrontal cortex is a key area responsible for ADHD deficits as well as social behavior, empathy, and various personality traits. Research indicates we continue to develop this part of the brain well into adulthood.http://www.physorg.com/news/2010-12-brain-fully-mature-30s-40s.html
Your Brain on Computers: Outdoors and Out of Reach, Studying the Brain
Your Brain on Computers: Outdoors and Out of Reach, Studying the BrainBy Matt Richtel, published: August 15, 2010A group of experts share there thoughts on the relationship between heavy use of digital devices and our attention and overall mental health. Five neuroscientists put their heads together to discuss this issue, not around a conference table at a hotel, but in a remote area of southern Utah rafting the San Juan River.