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What is Autism Spectrum Disorder? - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is described as a “developmental disorder” because symptoms generally appear in the first 2 years of life. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), a guide created by the American Psychiatric Association that health care providers use to diagnose mental disorders, people with ASD often have:
Difficulty with communication and interaction with other people
Restricted interests and repetitive behaviors
Symptoms that affect their ability to function in school, work, and other areas of life
Autism is known as a “spectrum” disorder because there is wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience. People of all genders, races, ethnicities, and economic backgrounds can be diagnosed with ASD. Although ASD can be a lifelong disorder, treatments and services can improve a person’s symptoms and daily functioning. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children receive screening for autism. Caregivers should talk to their child’s health care provider about ASD screening or evaluation.
What is ADHD? - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder marked by persistent symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development.
Symptoms begin in childhood and can affect daily life, including social relationships and school or work performance. ADHD is well-known among children and teens, but many adults also have the disorder.
People with ADHD experience an ongoing pattern of:
Inattention: Having problems staying on task, paying attention, or being organized, which are not due to defiance or a lack of comprehension.
Hyperactivity: Being extremely restless or constantly moving, including in situations when it is not appropriate; excessively fidgeting or tapping; or talking too much.
Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, interrupting others, or having difficulty with self-control. Impulsivity can also involve a desire for immediate rewards or an inability to delay gratification or consider long-term consequences.
7 Early Signs of Autism Every Parent Should Know
Early signs of autism can suggest that a young child may benefit from further assessment for ASD. Keep in mind, though, that the presence of one or more of these signs does not necessarily mean a child has ASD; it only suggests that a more thorough evaluation may be helpful. By watching, you’ll gain insight into specific behaviors that could be early indicators of autism, helping you understand what to look for and when to seek professional guidance.
2-Minute Neuroscience: Autism
Autism is often associated with rapid brain growth in infancy, which may lead to atypical connectivity between brain regions, particularly in circuits related to social interaction and attention. While genetics significantly influence autism risk, environmental factors, especially during prenatal and perinatal periods, may also play a key role in altering neural development. However, it remains unclear exactly how these factors interact to trigger autism symptoms, with hypotheses suggesting mechanisms like epigenetic changes, inflammation, or oxidative stress. Further research is needed to clarify both genetic and environmental contributions and their effects on brain development in autism.
Music Therapy for ASD
Music therapy has shown promising benefits for individuals with ASD, helping improve communication, social skills, and emotional regulation. By engaging in structured musical activities, individuals with autism can better express themselves, develop fine and gross motor skills, and strengthen connections with others in a non-verbal and supportive environment. The rhythmic and predictable nature of music offers a comforting structure that can reduce anxiety and encourage social interaction. Research suggests that music therapy may enhance cognitive functions and positively impact behavioral and emotional responses, providing a creative and enjoyable path for individuals with autism to develop essential skills.
ASD vs ADHD – How to Tell the Difference
ASD and ADHD can share some overlapping symptoms, such as difficulty with focus, impulsivity, and social challenges, but they differ in key ways. ASD primarily affects social communication, behavior, and sensory processing, often including repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. In contrast, ADHD mainly involves challenges with attention regulation and impulse control without the same intensity of social and sensory symptoms seen in autism. Differentiating between ASD and ADHD is essential for developing effective support strategies tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
This Is Your Brain On Music - How Music Benefits the Brain
Music has been an essential part of every human culture, past and present, influencing brain development, learning, mood, and even health. One of the most notable effects of music is its ability to alter mood and emotions by stimulating the release of certain brain chemicals. When we listen to music we enjoy, our brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, making us feel good. Music can also enhance our exercise routines. As our body starts to feel fatigued, it sends signals to the brain to rest. Listening to music, however, competes for the brain’s attention and can help us override these fatigue signals, allowing us to exercise longer. In recent decades, neuroscientists have made significant breakthroughs in understanding brain function through tools like fMRI. Brain scans have shown that musicians have different brain structures than non-musicians; individuals who play instruments often have larger, more connected, and more sensitive brains. Both listening to and creating music offer unique benefits. For individuals with ASD or ADHD, music can be a powerful tool to enhance focus, emotional regulation, and social interaction.
ADHD - causes, symptoms & pathology
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. While its exact causes are unclear, genetics, brain structure, and environmental factors are known to play a role. Pathologically, ADHD is linked to differences in brain areas related to attention and self-control, potentially involving altered dopamine signaling. Symptoms often include difficulty focusing, restlessness, and impulsive behavior, which can impact daily functioning.