Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often overlap in observable behavior, particularly in social settings, though their internal motivations differ significantly. Individuals with extensive CPTSD may identify with autism to normalize their difficulties connecting with others, as it frames these challenges as a fundamental difference in "wiring" rather than just a response to injury. Reasons for Identification Symptom Overlap: Bot

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) frequently co-occur (often referred to as AuDHD), with 50-70% of autistic people also having ADHD. While they are distinct neurodevelopmental conditions, they share significant overlaps in traits and often appear together, creating unique strengths and challenges. Advantages of Having ADHD and/or Autism (AuDHD) When occurring together (AuDHD), the combination can create a unique balance between

In evolutionary terms, neurodivergence is often viewed not as a collection of "errors," but as adaptive variations that ensured the survival of early human groups through cognitive specialization. Evolutionary Origins and Roles Evolutionary theories suggest these conditions persist because they offered specific benefits to the collective "cognitive ecology" of a tribe or clan. ADHD (The "Hunter" Role): Traits like hyperactivity and rapid attentional shifts were advantageous

Early research has linked Alzheimer’s disease (AD) medications cholinesterase inhibitors and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists to modest cognitive benefits in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and comorbid cognitive disability. The preliminary evidence, which is drawn from a mix of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, case series, and case reports suggests these medications most frequently had a positive effect on lear

Key Takeaways Dr. Sarah Oreck refutes the FDA's claim, citing a 2024 meta-analysis showing no link between acetaminophen use during...

The latest surveillance data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show a steep rise in the prevalence of autism...

Keypoint: Men have a higher ASD heritability estimate than women, even after controlling for birth year and parental age. The...

People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face numerous healthcare disparities relative to their peers without ASD, as individuals with...

Our easy-to-read fact sheets provide clinicians with reliable information to share with patients and their caregivers. Biomedical therapy...

It can be challenging, frustrating trying to find a psychiatrist that takes your insurance as more psychiatrist are opting out of...

The risk increased with labor epidural analgesia alone and labor epidural analgesia and oxytocin, compared with no exposure. HealthDay...

Prenatal Screening Autism is highly heritable—but is it a disease? Should it be cured? Could screening for it lead to eugenics? We...

Psychiatry, Treatment Resistant Dr. Bruce Kehr My dear reader. In a recent blog post, I lamented that we psychiatrists have let many of...

Introduction Patients with intellectual disabilities, can be admitted to an inpatient psychiatric unit from their home environment, on a voluntary basis, but are more likely to be admitted based on the recommendations of the patient’s staff or family, due to acute changes in patient’s pattern of behavior. This collaborative effort, by various members of the patient’s support team, help provide the treatment team, with a global picture of the potential struggles that the patie

Intellectual disability involves problems with general mental abilities that affect functioning in two areas: Intellectual functioning...

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition involving persistent challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behavior. While autism is considered a lifelong disorder, the degree of impairment in functioning because of these challenges varies between individuals with autism. Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders Early signs of this disorder can be noticed by parents/caregivers or pediatricians before a child reaches

What is ADHD and Adults Care with a Specialist Psychiatrist ? Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common...

As the name implies, it is about living your “one life” to its fullest potential without any psychological or psychiatric limitations. My practice is about the holistic model for mental health with medications, therapy, and alternatives. It is an integration of optimal aspects of Western medicines (avoiding potential side effects or complications) with various therapy modalities (CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, etc). One Life Psychiatry provides a unique blend of pa