31 articles
Hartford Courant
A specialized school in Connecticut is expanding its autism services due to rising demand. The expansion reflects an increasing need for support and education tailored to children with autism. The school's growth aims to address the growing number of students requiring specialized care.
Justice and Equity Centre
A disability advocate was forced to take a 14-hour train journey after an airline failed to accommodate his accessibility needs on a flight. Industry guidance on disability accessibility in aviation, in place since 2002, is largely ignored, leading to ongoing issues for people with disabilities, including damaged mobility aids and being denied flights. Advocates argue that mobility aids should not be treated as baggage but as essential tools for independence.
LI Press
Adelphi University has expanded its Bridges to Adelphi program to better support neurodivergent students, including the introduction of a new neuro-inclusive residential community. The program, which began in 2007, now features a sensory and wellness lounge funded by a $75,000 grant, and includes a summer launch program that improves student success and self-esteem. The expansion reflects the university's commitment to providing academic, social, and employment support for neurodivergent students.
thetransmitter.org
A new preprint suggests that certain aging biomarkers, such as DNA methylation in the brain and blood, differ between autistic and non-autistic individuals, even though global epigenetic aging measures are similar. In autistic individuals, elevated DNA methylation is more strongly linked to psychosocial factors like loneliness and lower quality of life than to clinical traits such as IQ or symptom severity. These findings highlight aging as a complex, non-uniform process across different physiological systems.
Stock Titan
An estimated 15.5 million U.S. adults have ADHD, and Collegium Pharmaceutical launched "Start Talking ADHD," an online resource hub offering three downloadable guides to help families navigate healthcare, school support, and community resources. The guides include tools for doctor visits, understanding educational plans, and building support networks, but do not provide diagnosis or treatment recommendations. Collegium has expanded its ADHD portfolio with a second medication added in May 2026.
Free Malaysia Today
Giggles and Mess is a playgroup in Malaysia that brings neurodivergent and neurotypical children together through inclusive play and activities. Founded by three special-needs teachers, the initiative aims to foster understanding and friendship between children with different needs by creating a safe, label-free environment. The playgroup offers themed sessions that promote social skills, communication, and mutual respect among participants.
Hour Detroit Magazine
Golnick Pediatric Dental Associates supports Michigan families through community events like the Autism Hero Walk and dental education programs, emphasizing a family-centered approach to care. The practice sponsors events that celebrate and support autistic children and their families, as well as provide oral health education in accessible settings. Their involvement reflects a broader commitment to being present for local families and making dental care more welcoming and accessible.
The Hamilton County Reporter
Bierman Autism Centers is hosting a free, sensory-friendly Trunk-or-Treat event on October 17 in Westfield for children with autism and other developmental needs, along with their families and the broader community. The event aims to provide a comfortable, inclusive Halloween experience with activities such as decorated trunks, games, and face painting. The event also offers families an opportunity to connect with resources and support services provided by Bierman Autism Centers.
Nature
Dr. Lawrence Fung, director of the Stanford Center for Neurodiversity and Human Potential, emphasizes a strengths-based approach to supporting neurodivergent individuals, shifting from traditional deficit-based models in psychiatry and neuroscience. His work includes clinical initiatives, education programs, and advocacy efforts aimed at promoting neurodiversity and human potential across the lifespan. Fung's journey began with his son's autism diagnosis, leading him to develop research and programs that highlight the strengths of neurodivergent people and improve their inclusion in society.
Sur in English
A four-year-old British girl with severe autism was rescued by local police in San Miguel de Salinas, Costa Blanca, after escaping a holiday rental during torrential rain. She was found disoriented and in a nappy, and was later reunited with her parents after a medical evaluation. The incident occurred amid severe weather that caused fatalities and multiple rescue operations in eastern Spain.
PNI Atlantic News
A runner in Nova Scotia has begun a 784-kilometre journey from the southernmost to the northernmost point of the province to raise funds and awareness for Autism Nova Scotia. The event has already garnered significant community support, with many people joining Smith along the route. As of the third day, he had covered over 220 kilometres, surpassing his initial fundraising goal.
Investing.com India
Marvel Biosciences has signed a contract with a contract research organization (CRO) to conduct a phase 1 clinical trial for its autism drug. The trial aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the drug in treating autism spectrum disorder. This partnership marks a significant step in the development of the drug towards potential market approval.
Psychiatric Times
Treating ADHD only during visible hours leaves patients unprotected during critical times. The panel advocates for extended symptom control throughout the entire day, including bedtime, rather than focusing solely on the workday. This approach emphasizes comprehensive coverage of executive function across all waking hours.
Colchester Gazette
Two mums with neurodivergent children have launched a conference in Colchester to support families, educators, and professionals navigating neurodivergence. The event aims to reduce stigma and provide practical tools for families to thrive, not just survive. The conference will include one-to-one sessions and is based on the high number of neurodivergent individuals in the area.
YourTango
Neurodivergent individuals often recharge through specific activities that differ from traditional rest methods, such as using weighted blankets, taking low-sensory showers, engaging in hands-on hobbies like knitting, listening to calming music, and participating in physical activities that induce a flow state. These practices help manage sensory overload and emotional exhaustion without relying on sleep. Comfort media, spending time with pets, and reading predictable stories also provide effective ways for neurodivergent people to relax and recover.
The Palm Beach Post
A new center in Palm Beach Gardens, NorthStar Day Program, offers interdisciplinary care for neurodivergent children, combining education, speech therapy, and occupational therapy in one location. The program aims to streamline care for children with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions by providing a unified team and plan. Founder James McManus highlights the need for a cohesive system after identifying gaps in current health services.
dailymirror.lk
Sri Lanka is advancing a new Disability Rights Bill to replace the 30-year-old legislation, aiming to align domestic laws with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The proposed bill emphasizes stronger protections, inclusive participation of persons with disabilities, and the establishment of an independent monitoring mechanism. Discussions are ongoing to resolve discrepancies in the draft bill and ensure stakeholder input before proceeding with the legislative process.
Morningstar
Once-daily RELEXXII® (methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release tablet) is highlighted as a treatment option during ADHD Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of personalized dosing for effective symptom management. The article notes that ADHD affects a significant portion of children and adults, yet many cases go undiagnosed, particularly in women. Vertical Pharmaceuticals supports the ADHD community by providing flexible dosing options to help achieve individualized care.
Yle
Over 15% of children in Finland are using neurological medications, with ADHD medication use increasing significantly since 2017. The rise is attributed to better recognition of ADHD, lower treatment thresholds, and improved access to services. Meanwhile, antibiotic use among children has decreased.
Net Influencer
Paris Hilton's nonprofit, 11:11 Media Impact, is hosting UNSTOPPABLE, a summit for neurodivergent creators, featuring over 50 participants and focusing on ADHD during ADHD Awareness Month. The event aims to build community and provide tools for neurodivergent individuals, highlighting the gap between public awareness and accurate representation, with support from partners like Loop Earplugs and Understood.org. Hilton's personal advocacy and experience with ADHD underpin the initiative, which includes sensory-friendly activations and expert panels.
Newswire
Sri Lanka's Parliamentary Forum for Persons with Disabilities is reviewing a revised draft of the Disability Rights Bill to replace the outdated 1996 law, aiming to align domestic legislation with the UN CRPD. The process involves incorporating stakeholder feedback and addressing discrepancies between policy intent and current drafts, with emphasis on community participation and legal provisions for equal employment and workplace accommodations. Urgency is stressed to create a legal framework consistent with international standards and socio-economic realities.
U.S. News & World Report
Research suggests that placental abnormalities during pregnancy may increase the risk of a child developing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The study found that issues with placental function, such as reduced blood flow or improper development, could affect fetal brain development and contribute to ADHD symptoms later in life. These findings highlight a potential prenatal factor that may play a role in the development of ADHD.
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
A neurodivergent artist from Brown Deer, Ben Peetz, has released his first children's book, "The Crush," as part of a series featuring characters from his 7/24 Deeds gang, who perform good deeds daily. With support from his mother and a journalist, Ben has self-published the book, aiming to advocate for creative career opportunities for people with disabilities. The project highlights the importance of leveraging the artistic and storytelling talents of neurodivergent individuals.
The News International
Earl Spencer, Princess Diana's brother, suggests that her ADHD diagnosis enhanced her natural empathy and allowed her to focus on the essential details of social issues. He believes her neurodivergence contributed to her extraordinary public life and ability to connect with people. Spencer also highlights the benefits of understanding and acknowledging ADHD as a way to better manage emotional experiences.
The Oldham Times
A new three-year project in Greater Manchester aims to reduce the number of neurodivergent children entering the criminal justice system by working directly with neurodivergent young people to identify needed changes in systemic and professional responses. The initiative will develop resources and tools for young people, parents, and professionals based on lived experiences, aiming to address the overrepresentation of neurodivergent individuals in the justice system. The program involves collaboration between various public, private, and voluntary sector partners to create a more inclusive and effective approach.
Psychiatric Times
Long-standing ADHD medication regimens may no longer be effective for some patients, potentially leaving symptoms untreated. The article suggests that clinicians should reassess these regimens, especially in light of newer treatment options and technologies. It highlights how patient complacency and an "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" mindset can mask issues such as end-of-day crashes that could be addressed with updated treatment strategies.
Bioengineer.org
A randomized controlled trial in Turkey found that adding Ayres Sensory Integration therapy to standard special education improved daily living skills and progress toward therapeutic goals in preschoolers with autism. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of the therapy when delivered with proper fidelity, using a structured approach that ensures sessions meet the original method's standards. The results support the potential benefits of this occupational therapy approach in early autism intervention.
Newswise
Research highlights significant gaps in understanding and diagnosing autism in girls and women, as current criteria are largely based on male symptoms. Autistic girls often present differently, leading to underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis, and efforts are underway to address these disparities through collaborative research and advocacy. Experts emphasize the need for revised diagnostic approaches to better recognize and support autistic girls.
The Herald
The Scottish Government faces pressure to outline detailed plans for improving the lives of disabled people after abandoning the LDAN Bill, which was promised in the 2021 election manifesto. Critics accuse the SNP of a "betrayal" and express concerns that without new legislation, progress on disability rights will stall. The bill, which aimed to protect the rights of people with autism and learning disabilities, was delayed and eventually omitted from the 2026 Programme for Government.
Belleville News-Democrat
Stephenson County has introduced the Blue Envelope program to support autistic drivers by providing them with personalized resources and assistance. The initiative aims to help individuals on the autism spectrum navigate the complexities of driving and transportation more effectively. The program is part of broader efforts to improve accessibility and inclusivity for people with autism in the community.
Bioengineer.org
A study using wearable EEG devices found that teens' sleep patterns, particularly REM and deep sleep stages, are closely linked to obesity, blood pressure, and ADHD symptoms. The research highlights how sleep physiology data collected at home can serve as an early-warning system for pediatric health issues. The findings suggest that REM sleep duration and quality are associated with lower body weight, while deep sleep is linked to reduced hypertension risk.
Summaries are AI-generated and may contain errors; the linked article is the authority.
