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
Getting a Diagnosis as a Woman on the Autism Spectrum, with Becca Lory of GRASP | EDB 58
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Becca Lory, the director of development for GRASP (Global & Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership), and a woman with Asperger’s syndrome.
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.
Week in Neurodiversity – Michael J Fox & Dave Matthews Jam for Parkinson’s (11/26/16)
In this episode, a student with autism becomes homecoming king, “Aspergers Are Us” takes the world by storm in their new documentary, and Michael J. Fox jams with Dave Matthews for a Parkinson’s Benefit!
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.
Restaurant Staffed by People with Down Syndrome Opens in France
In a bold and creative effort to integrate those with Down syndrome into society and the workforce, a restaurant run by people with the syndrome is about to open in Nantes, France.
Gender & Neurodiversity: Recognizing the Diversity Within the Autism Spectrum, with Tania Marshall | EDB 54
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. continues his conversation with Australian psychologist and award-winning author Tania Marshall.
“Drumming is My Madness”: How One Student Fought ADHD
In this excerpt from her book, Lori Bitar tells the story of how she helped one student battle ADHD.
Week in Neurodiversity – A Therapy Duck For PTSD? (10/29/16)
In this episode, Amanda Seyfried opens up about having OCD, scientists develop a new gene therapy for Alzheimer’s, and have you heard of Daniel the therapy duck?
Insomnia: A Personal Struggle
Megan Baksh details her struggles with insomnia, and how she tries to combat it.
Neurodiversity: No Two Brains Are Exactly Alike
Julie Saumsiegle discusses her viewpoint on the idea of neurodiversity, and why society needs to embrace it.
Teen With Autism Shines as Mascot
Joshua Eryou, a senior at East Lawrence High School, is like many people with autism: shy, quiet and reserved. But when he becomes the school’s eagle mascot, he comes out of his shell.
Relief: Receiving an Autism Diagnosis as an Adult
Becca Lory discusses how her life changed when she received her autism diagnosis at age 36.
Week in Neurodiversity – Soccer Star Opens Up About Depression (10/22/16)
In this episode, a former soccer players discusses depression, a teacher is accompanied on her wedding day by her students with Down syndrome, and have you heard of the award winning documentary about Asperger’s?
Veteran With PTSD Pays Homage to Cat that Helped Him Cope
Upon his return from duty, King experienced symptoms of PTSD; however, he found comfort in a lively 6-month-old kitten known as Steven.
Guilt: The Elephant In The Room of Special Needs Parents
Mari Nosal discusses the tendency of the parents of children with special needs to feel guilt, and how to stop it.
Is Addiction a Form of Neurodiversity? with Jan Tedeschi | EDB 52
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with parenting and addiction specialist Jan Tedeschi.
Possible Link Found Between Vitamin D and ADHD Risk
A study conducted by Danish researchers has shown that mothers who take Vitamin D during pregnancy may reduce the risk of ADHD in their children.
Specialisterne: A Million Jobs for People with Autism and Other Unique Abilities
Cheryl Checkers discusses Specialisterne, an international company determined to create employment for the neurodiverse.
Week in Neurodiversity – Ben Affleck Studies Autism For Latest Role (10/15/16)
In this episode, Wentworth Miller stars in a depression awareness video, researchers are finding a cure for Parkinson’s, and Ben Affleck studies autism for his role in the film The Accountant! These stories and more in this week’s episode.
INSOMNIA
Click here to view all Different Brains content about insomnia What is Insomnia? Insomnia, which is the most common sleep disorder, can be simply defined as a condition that makes the process of falling asleep or staying asleep difficult. The three different classifications of insomnia according to the duration of their symptoms, are transient […]
AspienGirl: Embracing the Strengths of Women with Autism, with Tania Marshall | EDB 51
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Australian psychologist and award-winning author Tania Marshall.
Trailblazing for Neurodiversity and Different Brains
Dr. Hackie Reitman discusses his experiences at Trailblazing 2016, a conference dedicated to encouraging entrepreneurship amongst the neurodiverse.
Good News on Epilepsy: Increasing Certain Fats in Brain May Reduce Risk
Research conducted by scientists at Vrije Universiteit Brussels has provided hope for those suffering from epilepsy.
Week in Neurodiversity – Carly Simon Discusses Her Dyslexia (10/8/16)
In this episode, an apartment complex takes care of those with autism, Carly Simon talks about growing up with dyslexia, and have you seen the football player with Down syndrome that scored a touchdown for his sick mother?
The “a” Word: It Doesn’t Just Mean “Autism”
Donna Levin discusses The a Word, a British television series that recently debuted in the United States.
Love and Autism: Exploring Romance and Neurodiversity with Dr. Jennifer Palmiotto | EDB 50
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Dr. Jennifer Palmiotto, marriage counsellor, family therapist, and founder of the Love & Autism Conference in San Diego, California.
Hormones, Massage Therapy, and The Neurodiverse
Giuliana Fenwick offers more tips and techniques to help ease neurodiverse symptoms using head massage.
Researchers Find Link Between Touch Sensation and Social Difficulties
Researchers have discovered the missing link between touch sensation and social difficulties for individuals with autism.
Week in Neurodiversity – Runner With Autism Wins the Gold (10-1-16)
In this episode, virtual reality helps those with social difficulties, a cheerleader asks a boy with Down syndrome to homecoming, and did you hear about the first man with autism to win a gold medal at the Paralympics?
Sensorimotor and Neurologically Based Music Therapy: An Interview with Dr. Dorita Berger
Dr. Jennifer Jo Brout speaks with Dr. Dorita Berger about the various benefits music therapy can have on people with autism, ADHD, PTSD, and many other diagnoses.
A Letter for Alzheimer’s Advocacy Accepted into Congressional Record
Advocate and early-onset Alzheimer’s sufferer Michael Ellenbogen has written a letter to Congress that highlights both the societal and personal toll the disease can cause.
Succeeding With ADHD: Maximizing the Abilities of Neurodiversity, with Shawn Smith | EDB 49
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with returning guest Shawn Smith, of Don’t dis-my-ability.
Theory Of Mind: Challenges & Treatments Within Asperger’s & Autism
Mari Nosal discusses the “Theory of Mind,” and examines some of the challenges related to it in people with Asperger’s and autism.
Young Man with Down Syndrome Makes History at Fashion Week
A teen out of Plano, Texas has made history as the first male with Down syndrome to model in New York Fashion Week.
Week in Neurodiversity – Girl With Down Syndrome Realizes Cheerleading Dream (9/24/16)
In this episode, a girl with Down syndrome becomes an honorary cheerleader and have you seen the robot that helps children with autism?
Lost in translation – What I thought my son with autism didn’t understand
Linda Mastroianni discusses how her ways of communicating with her son, who has autism, have evolved over the years.
Diagnosing Neurodiversity: 7 Advocates Tell How They Learned They Have Autism | EDB 48
In this special episode of Exploring Different Brains, Hackie Reitman, M.D. presents 7 previous guests as they tell the story of how they were first diagnosed with autism.
Reality Series About Down Syndrome Wins an Emmy
The A&E reality series Born This Way, which follows the lives of several individuals with Down syndrome, has won an Emmy for outstanding unstructured reality program.
Week in Neurodiversity – Rapper Becomes Autism Advocate (9/17/16)
In this episode, a rapper become an autism advocate, patients with Parkinson’s climb Machu Picchu, and have you heard of the Emmy award-nominated reality series about Down syndrome? All this and more!
Why Kids Need To Earn An Allowance At A Young Age
As parents, we all want our kids to grow up to have a great work ethic and understand the value of a dollar. But things don’t just happen; unless we make them happen.