If you’ve been eyeing your toddler’s tablet time like it’s a ticking time bomb for their development, a new study has some reassuring news: early screen time doesn’t cause autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The research, published in JAMA Pediatrics, initially hinted at a link between screen exposure and ASD but later found the real culprits to be lurking elsewhere—namely, socioeconomic factors.

Let’s dive into the details, sprinkle in some humor, and unpack what this means for families everywhere.

Autism and the Screen Time Panic: A Primer

Once upon a time, ADHD was seen as something affecting about 5–6% of kids, mostly the ones who couldn't sit still in class or remember to turn in their homework.

Fast forward to today, and the numbers are painting a different story.

The CDC estimates ADHD affects 11.4% of children, and in Sweden, 10.5% of boys and 6% of girls were diagnosed in 2022—a whopping 50% increase since 2019. Experts predict these numbers will keep climbing until they plateau around 15% for boys and 11% for girls.

So what’s going on? Is ADHD really spreading like pumpkin spice in autumn, or is something else at play?

Here are eight reasons ADHD diagnoses are skyrocketing—and they’re more interconnected than a messy ball of yarn.

If you’re rocking both autism and ADHD, welcome to the club where our brains throw the kind of dance party that’s equal parts jazz improv and dubstep chaos.

Having AudHD isn’t just a diagnosis; it’s a lifestyle.

And like any lifestyle worth living, it comes with its own quirks, superpowers, and the occasional “Wait, how do I work this brain?” existential crisis.

Let’s dive into the wonderfully contradictory world of AudHD traits.

In a move that feels straight out of a sci-fi flick, researchers from the U.K. have developed a machine-learning system to diagnose ADHD by analyzing people’s actions in video clips.

Yes, diagnosing a complex neurodevelopmental disorder now involves cameras, keypads, and a little AI magic—not quite Hollywood, but definitely groundbreaking.

Published in Neuroscience Applied, this study boasts a whopping 95.5% accuracy rate, leaving traditional methods like MRI and EEG scratching their metaphorical heads.

Both ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and dyslexia are notorious for their ability to derail school report cards and frustrate families.

ADHD, with its cocktail of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and an attention span that rivals a goldfish’s, can make organizing tasks feel like climbing Everest.

Dyslexia, on the other hand, causes persistent difficulties with reading, spelling, and writing, even in individuals with normal intelligence.

Now, thanks to this study, we know these conditions often co-occur for a reason.

Around 25-40% of people diagnosed with one condition also meet criteria for the other.

Why? It turns out they share a genetic overlap of 0.40, which, in science-speak, means they’re cozy roommates in your DNA.

In an age where loud voices often dominate the conversation, Susan Cain’s work stands as a compelling reminder that quiet strength holds transformative power.

As an author, speaker, and advocate for the often-overlooked virtues of introversion, Cain has profoundly influenced how we think about personality, leadership, and human connection.

Her ability to elevate the voices of those who thrive in reflective spaces has not only sparked cultural change but also inspired millions of people to embrace their authentic selves.

Her contributions intersect powerfully with the growing field of neurodiversity, offering invaluable psychoeducation on the diverse ways human brains are wired and how these differences shape behavior and potential.

If your child has ever treated bath time like a medieval torture session, refused to wear clothes that aren’t just right, or gagged at the mere sight of mashed potatoes, you’re not alone.

Many children have intense reactions to everyday sensations—sounds, textures, clothes, or even someone innocently touching their arm.

It’s easy to assume they’re being dramatic, spoiled, or difficult, but the truth might surprise you: Their brains could be struggling to process sensory information.

It’s Not Drama; It’s Sensory Processing!

The relationship between neurodiversity and the criminal impulse requires nuanced understanding, free from the stigma and stereotypes that often cloud the conversation.

Neurodiversity acknowledges that variations in neurological functioning, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, and others, are part of the natural spectrum of human diversity.

Yet, folks within this spectrum can face challenges—social misunderstandings, impulsivity, or difficulty regulating behavior—that intersect with systems of law and social norms.

This essay will delve deeper into the interplay between neurodiversity and criminal behavior, exploring the contributing factors and protective measures, while referencing social science research to ground the discussion in evidence.

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.