Neurodiversity - Part 17

Blog

Defining Neurodiversity for 2017: It’s Different Brains

December 31, 2016
Harold Reitman, M.D.
Alzheimer's Disease, apraxia, Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), Autism, bipolar, misophonia, Neurodiversity, ocd, parkinson's, PTSD

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.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

The Best of the Week In Neurodiversity – 2016 Year in Review

December 30, 2016
Mike Nickas
ADHD, Down Syndrome, Dyslexia, Neurodiversity, parkinson's, PTSD

(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!

EDB Video

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.

News

Professors and Students Team Up to Provide Toys for Children With Disabilities

December 27, 2016
Harry Lowe
Neurodiversity

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.

Blog

The Emotional Brain

December 26, 2016
Giuliana Fenwick
Neurodiversity

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.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Sensory-Friendly Santa For Kids With Autism – Week In Neurodiversity (12/24/16)

December 23, 2016
Mike Nickas
ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, Neurodiversity, parkinson's

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.

Blog

Autism, Predictability, and the Desire for Interpersonal Relations

December 21, 2016
Eric Zimmerman
Autism, Neurodiversity

Eric Zimmerman discusses how a recent trip forced him to expand his horizons, and confront is anxiety.

EDB Video

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.

Blog

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.

News

Robot Helping Children with Autism in the Middle East

December 18, 2016
Harry Lowe
Autism, Neurodiversity

An innovative humanoid robot named Milo, released last year to help children with autism, is now confronting neurodiversity in the Middle East.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Lady Gaga Opens Up About PTSD – Week in Neurodiversity (12/17/16)

December 16, 2016
Mike Nickas
Alzheimer's Disease, Down Syndrome, Neurodiversity, parkinson's, PTSD

(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!

Blog

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.

EDB Video

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.

News

Home Depot and GallopNYC Join Forces to Help Vets with PTSD

December 11, 2016
Harry Lowe
Neurodiversity, 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.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week in Neurodiversity – Woman with Down Syndrome Starts Cookie Business (12/10/16)

December 10, 2016
Mike Nickas
Autism, bipolar, Down Syndrome, insomnia, Neurodiversity, parkinson's, tourette's

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!

Blog

Autism / Independence – Do All You Can, While You Can

December 9, 2016
Amalia Starr
Autism, Neurodiversity

Amalia Starr tells of how the loss of Brandon, her son with autism, highlights the importance of living life to the fullest.

News

12-Year Old Quarterback with Autism Leads Football Team to Winning Season

December 8, 2016
Harry Lowe
Autism, Neurodiversity

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.

EDB Video

Self-Advocacy on the Autism Spectrum, with Becca Lory | EDB 59

December 6, 2016
Harold Reitman, M.D.
Asperger's syndrome, Autism, Neurodiversity

In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman continues his conversation with director of development for GRASP (Global & Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership).

Blog

Twenty-five Effective Career Preparations that Promote Autism Spectrum Employment

December 4, 2016
Jackie Marquette
Asperger's syndrome, Autism, Neurodiversity

Dr. Jackie M. Marquette discusses the challenges and methods of helping individuals on the autism spectrum recognize, appreciate, and utilize their unique abilities.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week in Neurodiversity – Selena Gomez Opens Up About Depression (12/3/16)

December 3, 2016
Mike Nickas
ADHD, Autism, Depression, Down Syndrome, Neurodiversity

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!

News

Canadian Performer with OCD Uses One-Man Show to Raise Awareness

December 1, 2016
Harry Lowe
Neurodiversity, ocd

Brendan McLeod, a thirty year old Canadian with OCD, is touring Canada performing his monologue “Brain” to raise awareness about the condition.

Blog

Neurodiversity In The Gut: The Enteric or Second Brain

December 1, 2016
Giuliana Fenwick
Neurodiversity

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

News

NPR Releases New Dyslexia Series

November 28, 2016
Megan Baksh
Dyslexia, Neurodiversity

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.

Blog

Tips And Resources For Veterans Suffering With PTSD

November 28, 2016
Julia Merrill
Neurodiversity, PTSD

Julia Merrill presents tips and helpful resource links for veterans suffering with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder for life management.

Blog

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.

EDB Video

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.

News

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.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week in Neurodiversity – Brain Implants Make Paralyzed Monkeys Walk (11/19/16)

November 18, 2016
Mike Nickas
Alzheimer's Disease, Autism, Concussions, Down Syndrome, Neurodiversity

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!

Blog

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.

Blog

Courage Not Weakness: Accepting Support in the Differently-Abled Community

November 16, 2016
JR Harding
Neurodiversity

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.

EDB Video

Maximizing Educational Success for Different Brains with Lori Bitar | EDB 56

November 16, 2016
Harold Reitman, M.D.
ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), Autism, Dyslexia, Neurodiversity

In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Lori Bitar, educational consultant and author of "SOS: Save Our Students."

News

Comedy Troupe with Asperger’s Entertains Fans Around the Country

November 14, 2016
Harry Lowe
Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), Neurodiversity

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.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week in Neurodiversity – Rock Climber with Epilepsy Inspires (11/12/16)

November 11, 2016
Mike Nickas
ADHD, Alzheimer's Disease, Depression, Down Syndrome, Epilepsy, insomnia, Neurodiversity

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!

Blog INTERVIEW

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.

News

Toys “R” Us Creating Sensory-Friendly Shopping for Those with Autism

November 9, 2016
Megan Baksh
Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), Autism, Neurodiversity

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.

EDB Video

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.

Blog

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.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week in Neurodiversity – Boy with Tourette’s Sings with Carrie Underwood (11/05/16)

November 4, 2016
Mike Nickas
Autism, Down Syndrome, Neurodiversity, parkinson's, tourette's

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!

Blog

SMILE Miracles: Don’t Underestimate Potential on the Autism Spectrum

November 4, 2016
Denise Resnik
Autism, Neurodiversity

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.

News

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.

EDB Video

Gender & Neurodiversity: Recognizing the Diversity Within the Autism Spectrum, with Tania Marshall | EDB 54

November 1, 2016
Harold Reitman, M.D.
Asperger's syndrome, Autism, Neurodiversity

In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. continues his conversation with Australian psychologist and award-winning author Tania Marshall.

Blog

“Drumming is My Madness”: How One Student Fought ADHD

November 1, 2016
Lori Bitar
ADHD, Neurodiversity

In this excerpt from her book, Lori Bitar tells the story of how she helped one student battle ADHD.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week in Neurodiversity – A Therapy Duck For PTSD? (10/29/16)

October 29, 2016
Mike Nickas
Alzheimer's Disease, Autism, dow syndrome, Neurodiversity, ocd, PTSD

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?

Blog

Insomnia: A Personal Struggle

October 27, 2016
Megan Baksh
insomnia, Neurodiversity

Megan Baksh details her struggles with insomnia, and how she tries to combat it.

Blog

Neurodiversity: No Two Brains Are Exactly Alike

Julie Saumsiegle discusses her viewpoint on the idea of neurodiversity, and why society needs to embrace it.

EDB Video

Succeeding in College with Asperger’s Syndrome, with Harry Lowe | EDB 53

October 25, 2016
Harold Reitman, M.D.
Asperger's syndrome, Autism, Neurodiversity

In this episode, Hackie Reitman interviews Harry Lowe, a student with Asperger's Syndrome studying political science at Metropolitan State University of Denver.

News

Teen With Autism Shines as Mascot

October 25, 2016
Harry Lowe
Autism, Neurodiversity

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.

Blog

Relief: Receiving an Autism Diagnosis as an Adult

October 23, 2016
Becca Lory
Autism, Neurodiversity

Becca Lory discusses how her life changed when she received her autism diagnosis at age 36.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week in Neurodiversity – Soccer Star Opens Up About Depression (10/22/16)

October 22, 2016
Mike Nickas
Asperger's syndrome, Autism, Depression, Down Syndrome, Neurodiversity, ocd

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?

News

Veteran With PTSD Pays Homage to Cat that Helped Him Cope

October 20, 2016
Megan Baksh
Neurodiversity, PTSD

Upon his return from duty, King experienced symptoms of PTSD; however, he found comfort in a lively 6-month-old kitten known as Steven.

Blog

Guilt: The Elephant In The Room of Special Needs Parents

October 19, 2016
Mari Nosal, M.Ed
Asperger's syndrome, Autism, Neurodiversity

Mari Nosal discusses the tendency of the parents of children with special needs to feel guilt, and how to stop it.

EDB Video

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.

News

Possible Link Found Between Vitamin D and ADHD Risk

October 17, 2016
Harry Lowe
ADHD, Neurodiversity

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.

Blog

Specialisterne: A Million Jobs for People with Autism and Other Unique Abilities

October 16, 2016
Cheryl Checkers
Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), Autism, Neurodiversity

Cheryl Checkers discusses Specialisterne, an international company determined to create employment for the neurodiverse.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week in Neurodiversity – Ben Affleck Studies Autism For Latest Role (10/15/16)

October 15, 2016
Mike Nickas
Alzheimer's Disease, Autism, Depression, Dyslexia, Neurodiversity, parkinson's

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.

EDB Video

AspienGirl: Embracing the Strengths of Women with Autism, with Tania Marshall | EDB 51

October 11, 2016
Harold Reitman, M.D.
Asperger's syndrome, Autism, Neurodiversity

In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Australian psychologist and award-winning author Tania Marshall.

Blog

Trailblazing for Neurodiversity and Different Brains

October 11, 2016
Harold Reitman, M.D.
Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), Autism, Down Syndrome, Neurodiversity

Dr. Hackie Reitman discusses his experiences at Trailblazing 2016, a conference dedicated to encouraging entrepreneurship amongst the neurodiverse.

News

Good News on Epilepsy: Increasing Certain Fats in Brain May Reduce Risk

October 10, 2016
Harry Lowe
Epilepsy, Neurodiversity

Research conducted by scientists at Vrije Universiteit Brussels has provided hope for those suffering from epilepsy.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week in Neurodiversity – Carly Simon Discusses Her Dyslexia (10/8/16)

October 8, 2016
Mike Nickas
Autism, Concussions, Down Syndrome, Dyslexia, Neurodiversity, parkinson's

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?

Blog

The “a” Word: It Doesn’t Just Mean “Autism”

October 6, 2016
Donna Levin
Autism, Neurodiversity

Donna Levin discusses The a Word, a British television series that recently debuted in the United States.

Blog

Hormones, Massage Therapy, and The Neurodiverse

Giuliana Fenwick offers more tips and techniques to help ease neurodiverse symptoms using head massage.

News

Researchers Find Link Between Touch Sensation and Social Difficulties

October 3, 2016
Mike Nickas
Autism, Neurodiversity

Researchers have discovered the missing link between touch sensation and social difficulties for individuals with autism.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week in Neurodiversity – Runner With Autism Wins the Gold (10-1-16)

October 1, 2016
Mike Nickas
Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), Autism, Down Syndrome, Neurodiversity, parkinson's, PTSD

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?

Blog

Sensorimotor and Neurologically Based Music Therapy: An Interview with Dr. Dorita Berger

September 30, 2016
Jennifer Brout
ADHD, Alzheimer's Disease, Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), Autism, misophonia, Neurodiversity, parkinson's

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.

News

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.

EDB Video

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.

News

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.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week in Neurodiversity – Girl With Down Syndrome Realizes Cheerleading Dream (9/24/16)

September 23, 2016
Mike Nickas
Alzheimer's Disease, Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), Autism, Down Syndrome, Neurodiversity, PTSD

In this episode, a girl with Down syndrome becomes an honorary cheerleader and have you seen the robot that helps children with autism?

Blog

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.

EDB Video

Diagnosing Neurodiversity: 7 Advocates Tell How They Learned They Have Autism | EDB 48

September 20, 2016
Harold Reitman, M.D.
Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), Autism, Neurodiversity

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.

News

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.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week in Neurodiversity – Rapper Becomes Autism Advocate (9/17/16)

September 16, 2016
Mike Nickas
Autism, DOWN SYNCROME, Dyslexia, Neurodiversity, parkinson's

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!

Blog

Why Kids Need To Earn An Allowance At A Young Age

September 16, 2016
Shawn Smith
Neurodiversity

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.

EDB Video

Moving Beyond Labels and Understanding Neurodiversity, with Dr. Lori Butts | EDB 47

Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Lori Butts, J.D., Ph.D. and discusses the importance of focusing on symptoms, not labels, when treating the neurodiverse.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week in Neurodiversity – FSU Football Star Makes the Day of Young Boy With Autism (9/10/16)

September 10, 2016
Mike Nickas
Autism, bipolar, Depression, Down Syndrome, Dyslexia, Neurodiversity

In this episode, an amusement park creates a calming room for kids with autism, a young man with Down syndrome gets into his dream school, and how did an FSU football star make the day of a student with autism?

News

Kids’ Blood Results Could Predict Bipolar Disorder

September 9, 2016
Mike Nickas
bipolar, Neurodiversity

A potential link between bipolar disorder and specific blood markers has been discovered in a UK-based study.

EDB Video

Why Therapy Shouldn’t Always Lead to Medication, with Dr. Lauren Gerber | EDB 46

September 6, 2016
Harold Reitman, M.D.
ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), Autism, Neurodiversity

In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with returning guest Dr. Lauren Gerber, author and psychologist.

Video

Hackie Reitman,M.D. Speaks at AspenBrainLab 2016 at the Aspen Institute

September 5, 2016
Harold Reitman, M.D.
Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), Neurodiversity

In this 17 minute presentation, Different Brains™ founder Hackie Reitman, M.D. tells his personal journey to understanding neurodiversity, and why it is so important for society to recognize the differences in our brains.

Video WEEK IN NEURODIVERSITY

Week In Neurodiversity – Friends with Down Syndrome Make a Zombie Movie Epic! (9/3/16)

September 3, 2016
Mike Nickas
Asperger's Syndrome (ASD), Autism, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Down Syndrome, Neurodiversity

In this episode, Taryn Manning stars in a movie about bipolar disorder, Cara Delevigne opens up about depression, and have you heard of the best friends with Down syndrome that created a zombie flick?

News

Man Canoes Across Canada for PTSD

September 1, 2016
Mike Nickas
Neurodiversity, PTSD

Ranta is traveling along with his dog Spitzii to bring awareness to the issues caused by PTSD and honor the veterans of Canada.

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