33. What can science tell us about neurodivergent brains?

If you - or your child - is neurodivergent, it can often feel like the world doesn’t always take you seriously. The challenges might be huge, but they’re largely invisible, and often unpredictable. So life can become a cycle of apologies and explanations.

But advances in science are beginning to change this. In this episode we look at some of the important research happening here in Aotearoa. From brain imaging studies into ADHD, to genetic research revealing the biological pathways of autism.

As these brain differences become measurable, the impact on individual lives is profound.

In this episode:

What brain scans are revealing about ADHD and the role of movement
Why those with ADHD struggle to hold two ideas in their mind at one time
The emerging science behind the genetic basis of autism
Why identifying specific genetic variants can be life-changing for families
The ethical considerations of autism research, and why community involvement matters
The importance of having a biological explanation for differences

Guests:

Dr Jessie Jacobsen and Dr Ruth Monk: Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland

Dr Gil Newburn and Paul Condron: Mātai Medical Research Institute

To support the work of the Centre for Brain Research click here

No Such Thing as Normal is made with the support of NZ On Air

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Jaksot(36)

35. Neurodiversity in Aotearoa: How are we doing?

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34. Mental health, medication and neurodivergent burnout

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32. ADHD and Perimenopause: The Perfect Storm

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31. Gender diversity & neurodiversity: Understanding the intersection

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30. Neurodiversity at work: why traditional workplaces fail ‘different thinkers’

Why do so many neurodivergent people struggle in the workplace; even when they are highly capable? In this episode, Sonia speaks to workplace strategist Rich Rowley about why modern workplaces value o...

10 Huhti 35min

29. Is there real hope for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?

Isabella* is just 22, but she’d been living with severe contamination OCD for eight years. It had taken over her life - touching people, objects, even parts of her own home, felt dangerous. Every inte...

3 Huhti 48min

28. Why ADHD still feels so hard - even when you understand it

ADHD is being talked about more than ever. But for many, life still feels harder than it should. Even with a diagnosis there can be a lingering sense of “Why is life still so difficult?” In this epis...

27 Maalis 31min