Neurodiversity and Sleep: Tips for Helping Different Brains Rest
Dr. Ben Weinstock examines the common sleep problems related to neurodiverse conditions, and offers a checklist on to combat those problems.
New Book Attempts to Demystify Compulsive Behaviors of All Types and Severity
Can’t. Just. Stop. An Investigation of Compulsion attempts to cover the entire spectrum of compulsive behaviors through interviews with dozens of individuals.
Creativity on the Autism Spectrum | EDB 71
(24 minutes) In this special episode of Exploring Different Brains, Hackie Reitman, M.D. discusses creativity in people on the autism spectrum with Dr. Ian Hale, Colin Eldred-Cohen, Keri Bowers, Taylor Cross, and Michael Tolleson.
Bridges to Adelphi: A Model for Supporting College Students on the Autism Spectrum
Mitch Nagler discusses Bridges to Adelphi, and the model it has become for services colleges should offer students on the autism spectrum.
A Blood Test for Depression? – The Week in Neurodiversity (2/25/17)
(4min 12sec) In this episode, Lena Dunham demonstrates yoga poses to help with anxiety, an Australian man with autism starts his own business, and a blood test may lead to treating depression! These stories and more in this week’s edition.
Music Helps Aid Pianist with Tourette Syndrome
Diagnosed with Tourette syndrome (TS) at an early age, Yusuke Osada learned how to use his musical virtuosity to his advantage; as an effective way to help combat his condition.
Overcoming Learning Obstacles with Dyslexia & ADHD | EDB 70
In this special episode of Exploring Different Brains, Hackie Reitman, M.D. discusses ways to overcome the learning challenges presented by dyslexia and ADHD with Dr. Matthew Schneps, Elizabeth Wilkinson, Sue Kahn, and Shawn Smith.
Telling Your Children You Have Epilepsy
Tom McGranahan Jr. discusses the challenge of a parent with epilepsy sharing their diagnoses with their children, and gives advice on how best to do so.
The ADHD Parent: Comfort Levels and ADHD
Lacey Craddock discusses the challenges a child with a neurodiverse diagnoses can face while growing up, and the concern parents can have in safeguarding their children through that process.
New Device Helps People with Asperger’s Interpret Emotions – The Week in Neurodiversity (2/18/17)
(3 min 49 sec) In this episode, a teen with Down syndrome fulfills his dreams of going to college, a new device can help those with Asperger’s detect moods, and Henry Winkler discusses his new book and growing up with dyslexia! These stories and more in this week’s edition.
MIT Reveals Launch of New Autism Research Center
Lisa Yang and MIT alumnus Hock Tan are responsible for the center’s foundation, contributing a generous kick-off commitment of $20 million.
Finding Fulfilling Employment on the Autism Spectrum, with Dr. Stephen Shore | EDB 69
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D.continues his conversation with return guest Stephen Shore, Ed.D.- author, autism advocate, board member for the USAAA and Autism Speaks, and professor at Adelphi University.
Special Olympics to be Held in the Middle East for the First Time in 2019
Just over two years from now, the world will see the Special Olympics held in a Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) region for the first time – Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), to be exact.
Medication’s Changing Use in Different Brains
Lynn Harrelson, Pharm. B.S., FASCP looks at how the interactions between patients and prescriptions have changed over the years, and highlights risks everyone should be aware of.
Dog Changes the Life of Woman with a TBI – The Week in Neurodiversity (2/11/17)
In this episode, a service dog changes the life of a woman with a traumatic brain injury, a new treatment for Parkinson’s is showing promise, and the cookie saleswoman with Down syndrome will be selling her cookies at the Oscars!
The Adderall Debate – Life Before and After my ADHD Diagnosis
Roland Jung discusses his first year after receiving his ADHD diagnosis, and his ongoing dilemma with medication.
Advocating Autism Spectrum Around the World, with Stephen Shore | EDB 68
(22 mins) In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. welcomes back return guest Dr. Stephen Shore- author, autism advocate, board member for Autism Speaks, and professor at Adelphi University.
Understanding and Supporting Weaknesses in Executive Brain Functioning
Cheryl Checkers, M.S. outlines how weaknesses in the executive functions of the brain can create problems for the neurodiverse, and reviews strategies for how to improve those functions.
New Technology Helps Researchers Communicate with “Locked-In” Syndrome Patients
Researchers in Europe have found an innovative way to communicate with individuals who suffer from “locked-in syndrome.”
Girl With Apraxia Finds Bond With Shelter Cats – Week In Neurodiversity (2/04/17)
In this episode, a student becomes the second contest with Down syndrome to run for Miss Clemson, a girl with apraxia finds a special bond with cats at an animal shelter, and how can a mouth guard give us an inside look at the impact of a concussion?
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Living with an Invisible Disability
In his first blog for Different Brains, David A. Grant tells the story of how having a traumatic brain injury has not only changed his life, but his perspective on society.
South Dakota Man with Tourette’s Finds Peace Around Animals
Nick gets past his Tourette’s by harnessing his love of animals to work at a nature preserve and park in South Dakota.
Doctors Embracing Different Brains, with Steve Sulkes, M.D of the U. of Rochester Medical Center and the AADMD | EDB 67
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Steve Sulkes, M.D, the Director of UCEDD/LEND at University of Rochester, and the incoming President of the AADMD.
Getting Assessed – Life Before and After my ADHD Diagnosis
Roland Jung continues the story of his personal journey with ADHD. In this installment, he discusses going from self-diagnosis to receiving a real assessment.
Sharing the Challenges of Epilepsy
Tom McGranahan Jr discusses common misconceptions about how to help someone that is having a seizure, and the importance of education for those caring for someone with epilepsy.
A Winning Debut for Wrestler with Down Syndrome – Week In Neurodiversity (1/28/17)
In this episode, a teen with Down syndrome wins his high school wrestling debut, students walk for Alzheimer’s in honor of the Pat Summit Foundation, and a have you seen this viral clip of a Parkinson’s patient leading a dance? These stories and more in this week’s episode.
Star Wars Fan with Asperger’s Copes Using The Power of “The Force”
James Kenyon was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome at the early age of five, and is preparing to take part in the Scaffel Pike Challenge in an effort to raise money for the National Autistic Society.
Executive Brain Functions and their Link with the Neurodiverse
Giuliana Fenwick discusses the executive functions of the brain, and how she believes directed massage can aid in mitigating issues with cognitive control.
Identifor: Maximizing the Potential of the Neurodiverse, with Steve Keisman | EDB 66
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Steve Keisman, the Vice President of Education and Transition & Neurodiversity Employment Specialist for Identifor.
Does Caffeine Affect ADHD?
A 2012 study from the Federal University of Santa Catarina recommends that caffeine could be useful as an aid for symptoms of ADHD, normalizing levels of dopamine and improving the attentiveness of the patient- but with caution.
A Boy with Autism and His Four-Legged Best Friend – Week In Neurodiversity
In this episode, Wounded Warrior swim with the dolphins for PTSD, a mother posts a heartwarming video for her son with TBI, and a boy with autism shares a bond with his deaf service dog. These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Reflections on Employment Issues for People with Autism, and Ways to Improve It
Rebecca Witonsky recounts her history as a woman on the autism spectrum seeking employment, and discusses some of the tips others have proposed to improve job prospects for the neurodiverse.
Illinois Man with Down Syndrome Becomes a Firefighter
Jason Eagan had one goal: become a firefighter. Since Eagan has Down syndrome, some of the firefighters weren’t sure it would work out, but Eagan was determined.
Social Challenges for Women on the Autism Spectrum
Sarah Howard, a woman with autism who wasn't diagnosed until the age of 29, discusses the inherent challenges in facilitating social events for women on the spectrum.
Just Keep Swimming: Life Before and After my ADHD Diagnosis
In the first part of his ongoing blog series, Roland E. Jung discusses life before and after receiving his diagnosis of ADHD.
Helping the Neurodiverse and People with Disabilities Excel, with JR Harding of FSU | EDB 64
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. continues his conversation with Dr. JR Harding, an author, disability advocate, and instructional specialist at Florida State University.
How Do We Recognize Faces? Researchers Move Closer to an Answer
No one really knows how people recognize friends and family members- but researchers at Carnegie Mellon University are trying to change that.
A Dog Surfs For PTSD!? – Week In Neurodiversity (1/7/17)
In this episode, a girl with dyslexia creates a virtual reality program to help her peers, a man with down syndrome inspires others through a fitness class, and Ricochet the surf dog wears a Santa costume for PTSD awareness!
New Year, New Resolutions: Prescription Safety in 2017
Lynn Harrelson, Pharm. B.S., FASCP discusses the need for prescription safety, and taking precautions to avoid negative interactions between medications.
Comedy on the Autism Spectrum, with Colin Eldred-Cohen | EDB 63
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Colin Eldred-Cohen. He is the author of "The Fire Truck Who Got Lost,” a movie reviewer, and a young man on the autism spectrum.
Martha’s Vineyard Organization Highlights Inventions by Students with Dyslexia
Non-profit organization NoticeAbility is hosted the event to highlight the unique abilities and overlooked gifts of children with dyslexia.
Defining Neurodiversity for 2017: It’s Different Brains
In our final blog of 2016, Different Brains founder Hackie Reitman, M.D. discusses the problem of isolation when dealing with a diagnosis, and the way individuals and all of society can benefit when all of us come together for our common goals.
The Best of the Week In Neurodiversity – 2016 Year in Review
(7 minutes 40 seconds) In honor of the end of the year, we cover our top ten stories of 2016, featuring Michael J. Fox jamming with Dave Matthews for Parkinson’s awareness, Michael Jordan surprising a fan with autism, and the story of Daniel the therapy duck! These stories and more in this week’s episode!
Health Care for the Intellectually Disabled (Part 2), with Dr. Steven Perlman of the Special Olympics and AADMD | EDB 62
(21 minutes) In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. concludes his conversation with Dr. Steven Perlman, co-founder of the AADMD and the man behind the health care services offered through the Special Olympics, in the second of a two-part interview.
Professors and Students Team Up to Provide Toys for Children With Disabilities
Two professors at the University of North Florida are working to make sure children with disabilities are able to enjoy the same popular toys as all other children.
The Emotional Brain
Giuliana Fenwick discusses the amygdala, a part of the brain that rules emotion and sensory stimulation, and how some massage techniques can alleviate related stressors.
Sensory-Friendly Santa For Kids With Autism – Week In Neurodiversity (12/24/16)
In this episode, kids are meeting Santa in malls all over the country in a sensory-friendly environment, kids with ADHD get to run around to help them learn, and NFL Hall of Famer Charles Haley talks about Bipolar Disorder.
Autism, Predictability, and the Desire for Interpersonal Relations
Eric Zimmerman discusses how a recent trip forced him to expand his horizons, and confront is anxiety.
Health Care for the Intellectually Disabled (Part 1), with Dr. Steven Perlman of the Special Olympics and AADMD | EDB 61
(23 minutes) In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Dr. Steven Perlman, co-founder of the AADMD and the man behind the health care services offered through the Special Olympics, in the first of a two-part interview.
Give Your Brain the Gift of Hearing for the Holidays
Audiologist Constance Metropulos discusses how some anxiety-inducing social misunderstandings can be avoided this holiday season by making sure your hearing is properly assessed and cared for.
Robot Helping Children with Autism in the Middle East
An innovative humanoid robot named Milo, released last year to help children with autism, is now confronting neurodiversity in the Middle East.
Lady Gaga Opens Up About PTSD – Week in Neurodiversity (12/17/16)
(4 mins. 23 sec.) In this episode, a wrist device helps a designer with Parkinson’s, a boy with Down syndrome performs in the Nutcracker, and have you read Lady Gaga’s letter about PTSD? These stories and more in this week’s episode!
The Journey Through School and Work of One Young Woman with Autism
In her first blog for Different Brains, advocate Rebecca Witonsky tells the story of how receiving her autism diagnosis changed her life, and her career prospects.
Fighting for Accessibility and Disability Support, with Dr. JR Harding of FSU | EDB 60
(25 minutes) In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Dr. JR Harding, an author, disability advocate, and instructional specialist at Florida State University.
Home Depot and GallopNYC Join Forces to Help Vets with PTSD
Thanks to the collaboration between GallopNYC and Home Depot, people with disabilities will continue to benefit from therapeutic horseback riding for years into the future.
Week in Neurodiversity – Woman with Down Syndrome Starts Cookie Business (12/10/16)
In this episode, CalTeach researchers find a link between Parkinson’s and gut bacteria, Demi Lovato discusses her life with bipolar disorder, and a woman with Down syndrome starts her own cookie business!
Autism / Independence – Do All You Can, While You Can
Amalia Starr tells of how the loss of Brandon, her son with autism, highlights the importance of living life to the fullest.
12-Year Old Quarterback with Autism Leads Football Team to Winning Season
Mason Watson, quarterback of the Goose Creek Small Fry Patriots, has led his team to an 8-3 record and a berth in the playoffs despite only becoming the team’s quarterback after an 0-2 start.
Self-Advocacy on the Autism Spectrum, with Becca Lory | EDB 59
In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman continues his conversation with director of development for GRASP (Global & Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership).
Twenty-five Effective Career Preparations that Promote Autism Spectrum Employment
Dr. Jackie M. Marquette discusses the challenges and methods of helping individuals on the autism spectrum recognize, appreciate, and utilize their unique abilities.
Week in Neurodiversity – Selena Gomez Opens Up About Depression (12/3/16)
In this episode, a rapper with autism releases his debut album, models with Down syndrome have a fashion walk with the stars, and Selena Gomez gives a speech on mental health at the AMAs! These stories and more in this week’s episode!
Canadian Performer with OCD Uses One-Man Show to Raise Awareness
Brendan McLeod, a thirty year old Canadian with OCD, is touring Canada performing his monologue “Brain” to raise awareness about the condition.
Neurodiversity In The Gut: The Enteric or Second Brain
Giuliana Fenwick discusses how the gut, also known as the enteric or second brain, is also a main production line for producing and storing neurotransmitters, most of which are identical to those found in the central nervous system
NPR Releases New Dyslexia Series
NPR’s new series, Unlocking Dyslexia, will include a 5-part radio and blog post series that will take course over the span of two weeks.
Tips And Resources For Veterans Suffering With PTSD
Julia Merrill presents tips and helpful resource links for veterans suffering with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder for life management.
Epilepsy In The Open
In this blog piece, Thomas J. McGranahan Jr discusses his personal struggles with epilepsy, and the importance of staying strong in the face of adversity.
Finding Tomorrow’s Medical Breakthroughs, with Dr. H. Thomas Temple of Nova Southeastern’s TRED | EDB 57
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Dr. H. Thomas Temple, Senior Vice President of Translational Research and Economic Development at Nova Southeastern University.
Teenage Boy with Asperger’s Makes Debut as Author
After having published his very first novel, a 14 year old boy with Asperger's syndrome is proving he has a hidden knack for writing.
Week in Neurodiversity – Brain Implants Make Paralyzed Monkeys Walk (11/19/16)
In this episode, a toddler with Down syndrome models for Oshkosh, a boy with autism finds a best friend in his service dog, and brain implants help paralyzed monkeys walk!
Toxic Stress and its Impact on Children
Dr. N’Quavah Velazquez of Achievement Heights Academy discusses the effect toxic stress can have on a child's development.
Courage Not Weakness: Accepting Support in the Differently-Abled Community
Disability advocate and champion J.R. Harding tells the story of how, after he became quadriplegic, accepting and asking for help proved a difficult challenge.
Maximizing Educational Success for Different Brains with Lori Bitar | EDB 56
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Lori Bitar, educational consultant and author of "SOS: Save Our Students."
Comedy Troupe with Asperger’s Entertains Fans Around the Country
Asperger’s Are Us, a sketch comedy group based in Boston, is hitting it big. The troupe, made up entirely of performers with Asperger's syndrome is performing for crowds around the country.
Week in Neurodiversity – Rock Climber with Epilepsy Inspires (11/12/16)
In this episode, cognitive behavioral therapy is helping those with insomnia, a man with epilepsy climbs mountains, and an entrepreneur with Down syndrome sends baskets to families whose children also have the condition. All these and more in this week’s edition!
Neurodiversity and Addiction: An Interview with Professor Bankole A. Johnson of HBO’s “Addiction” Series
In this special text-only interview, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Dr. Bankole A. Johnson, who heads the Brain Science Consortium Unit at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, and is one of the world’s leading authorities on the subject of addiction.
Toys “R” Us Creating Sensory-Friendly Shopping for Those with Autism
When you think of Toys “R” Us, it’s unlikely that you are envisioning a relaxed atmosphere for children. However, the toy superstore is currently searching for effective new ways to ensure that those with autism can have a more stress-free shopping experience.
Socializing on the Autism Spectrum with Sarah Howard | EDB 55
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Sarah Howard. Sarah is a member of AASCEND, a meet-up group organizer, and an adult on the autism spectrum.
Synesthesia, PTSD, and Chamber Music: A Concert to Celebrate the Benefits of Music for Therapy
From my own viewpoint as a performing musician, there is surely no better way to advocate for the benefits of music in the brain than by presenting a unique chamber music concert specifically designed to emphasize these benefits.
Week in Neurodiversity – Boy with Tourette’s Sings with Carrie Underwood (11/05/16)
In this episode, a woman becomes Argentina’s first teacher with Down syndrome, Louisiana Tech starts a boxing program with Parkinson’s, and a young boy with Tourette’s sings on stage with Carrie Underwood!
SMILE Miracles: Don’t Underestimate Potential on the Autism Spectrum
After three years of operations, Rob & Denise Resnik offer their perspectives on the productive and dedicated SMILE team- a company of talented young people on the autism spectrum.