Imagine you’re twirling your hair, tapping your pen against the table, or bouncing your leg while lost in thought.

These subtle acts, often dismissed as nervous habits, are actually examples of stimming—self-stimulatory behavior that serves a much deeper purpose than we often realize.

For autistic folks, stimming is an integral part of life, serving as a tool for self-regulation, expression, and connection. It’s a behavior that has been misunderstood, stigmatized, and suppressed for far too long.

Let’s take a deep dive into stimming—what it is, why it matters, and how embracing it can transform our understanding of human behavior.

Because social media platforms tend to dominate conversations about health and wellness, it’s no surprise that TikTok has become a hub for discussions about ADHD.

With its short, engaging video format and a powerful algorithm designed to maximize interaction, TikTok has enabled millions to share their stories, educate, and connect.

But what happens when the information shared is inaccurate?

A recent study published in Australasian Psychiatry sheds light on this critical issue, finding that 92% of TikTok videos tagged with #ADHDtest contain misleading content!

This trend is not just alarming—it’s deeply concerning for folks and families seeking clarity about ADHD, a neurodevelopmental disorder that can profoundly impact lives.

A new study published in BMC Psychiatry has revealed that women with ADHD are more likely than men with the condition to engage in risky behaviors.

This finding underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing sex-specific differences in how ADHD manifests and is treated, offering valuable insights for clinicians and individuals navigating this condition.

Mindfulness meditation isn’t just about finding a moment of peace in a chaotic world—it’s about reshaping how your brain experiences life.

According to research published in the International Journal of Psychophysiology, mindfulness fosters a remarkable state of relaxed alertness, blending tranquility with laser-sharp focus.

It’s like giving your brain a cozy blanket and a cup of coffee at the same time.

If you’ve ever thought mindfulness was just about zoning out, think again. Let’s explore how this practice lights up your brain and makes your day a little brighter.

Ever wonder if your job is shaping your personality—or if your personality guided you to your job in the first place?

A fascinating new study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology explored personality profiles across 263 occupations, revealing distinct personality patterns tied to specific professions.

Spoiler alert: it turns out not all accountants are shy, and not all salespeople are extroverts, but the trends are as entertaining as they are enlightening.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most complex neurodevelopmental conditions to study, and it shows no signs of yielding simple answers.

From neuroscientists mapping dopamine pathways to sociologists critiquing institutional norms, ADHD has sparked debates across disciplines.

The result?

A mosaic of conflicting theories that reflect the diverse and multifaceted nature of this condition. Let’s take a deeper dive into these theories, bringing in the latest research and exploring the interplay of biology, psychology, and social factors.

ADHD is often thought of as a persistent, unchanging condition, but new research is challenging that view. A long-term study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry reveals that ADHD symptoms often fluctuate over time, influenced by life circumstances and environmental factors. For many, ADHD is not a static diagnosis but a dynamic condition with periods of remission and recurrence—a finding that offers both hope and a more nuanced understanding of the disorder.

What makes something “cute”?

For most of us, it’s the irresistible features of a baby’s face—big eyes, round cheeks, and a small nose—or the playful antics of a puppy or kitten.

These traits trigger the cuteness effect, a universal response hardwired into human biology to draw attention and evoke caregiving behaviors.

But how do children on the autism spectrum experience this phenomenon?

A recent study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders explored this question, uncovering nuanced differences in how autistic children engage with cute imagery based on the severity of their symptoms.

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects approximately 5% of children and adolescents worldwide, presenting challenges in focus, hyperactivity, and impulse control.

Traditional treatments, such as medications and behavioral therapies, can be effective, but they are not without limitations. Families often seek non-pharmacological approaches, either due to side effects or incomplete symptom relief from standard therapies.

A recent study published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice explores the potential of tactile massage as a gentle, non-invasive intervention for adolescents with ADHD, offering promising results in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Let’s discuss these findings, and the broader implications of tactile massage. We will also touch on how community mental health programs might apply research to adopt integrative, patient-centered approaches to ADHD care.

In some neurodiverse relationships, building emotional intimacy can sometimes feel like climbing a mountain. We want to be close to our partner, sharing dreams, fears, and everything in between.

But expecting deep emotional closeness all at once can feel overwhelming, especially if one or both partners aren’t used to regularly opening up on that level.

Here’s where psychology’s “Foot-in-the-Door Technique” can help couples ease into a deeper connection without pressure.

The Foot-in-the-Door Technique, originally described in social psychology, suggests that people are more likely to agree to larger requests if they’ve first agreed to smaller ones.

This principle can be a helpful approach in relationships, too, where it can create a gradual path toward greater intimacy. Here’s how it works in couples therapy, along with some tips for using this technique to grow closer in a supportive, low-pressure way.

Meet Emily and David, a couple who’ve not only built a marriage but also an impressive real estate portfolio. They own most of 2 square blocks in downtown of their small hometown in Western Massachusetts, making them known locally as the “power couple.”

David, an entrepreneur on the autism spectrum, is strategic and detail-oriented.

His wife, Emily, is a natural-born leader—a confident, dominant personality who’s decisive in both business and their relationship. Their dynamic is a fascinating balance of strengths, but it also brings challenges.

In therapy, Emily and David are seeking ways to manage their contrasting styles without letting business stress and power struggles erode their relationship.

Let’s explore the unique complexities of being in a relationship with a dominant partner, especially when one partner is on the autism spectrum, and dive into real research-backed strategies to help them—and others—find balance and respect.

Understanding the different states that autistic people navigate—often called "safe mode" and "flexible mode"—can be a transformative approach for caregivers, educators, and friends alike.

These states aren’t rigid; they represent adaptive ways that autistic people respond to the world, based on their environment, sensory input, and sense of safety.