Babies born through Caesarean section more likely to develop autism, researchers claim

Babies born through Caesarean section are more likely to develop autism, Irish researchers have claimed.

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HARRINGTON: Adderall inauthenticity

Recently, Viewpoint Writer Hasan Khan advocated the legalization of Adderall for academic use, suggesting that neuroenhancers are the next logical step in harnessing technology to improve our lives. He argued that side effects of Adderall are rare with typical use, its performance-enhancing effects do not create competitive unfairness as do steroids in athletics and legalization would eventually lead to a drop in prices, making Adderall accessible to all. Yesterday, Brennan Edel addressed some flaws in that argument. I take issue another one of Khan’s assumptions. When Khan concludes, “only by decriminalizing neuroenhancers will society enter a new era of productivity,” he implies that such a new era is desirable for humanity. I disagree.

HARRINGTON: Adderall inauthenticity

Mental Health Watchdog Applauds Vatican’s Investigation Into Psychiatric Drugging of Children

The mental health watchdog Citizens Commission on Human Rights applauds the Vatican for launching an investigation into the harmful effects of prescription psychiatric drugs. The conference brings together professionals to discuss the harmful consequences of overusing psychiatric drugs for treating mental and emotional disorders in children, as well as how a similar trend is hurting pregnant mothers

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Educators' misguided belief in 'neuromyths' hinders children's learning, expert says

I’ve noted here before how certain pop-psychology assertions about the brain stubbornly persist, despite being thoroughly debunked by scientists. A 2013 survey found, for example, that 65 percent of Americans still believe in the 80-year-old bogus notion (reinforced this year, unfortunately, by the sci-fi thriller “Lucy”) that humans use only 10 percent of their brain’s capacity.

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Parents struggle to find mental health services for children

Kathy Peters’ son was 4 years old the first time he tried to kill his little brother.

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Raising children suffering from ADHD

Dealing with a child who suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be tricky to deal with. But certainly not impossible. Parents should brace themselves for tantrums, arguments, hyperactivity and mood swings — all classic symptoms of ADHD. Here are some tips for parents on raising children who have ADHD.

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More Than Symptoms at Play in Prescribing ADHD Meds to Kids

New research shows that low maternal education increases the likelihood that a child with ADHD will receive medication, whereas immigrant status decreases the odds.

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Sample of child patients to test medical marijuana at MUSC

A small group of young patients will make history in South Carolina, testing a CBD extract, or a form of medical marijuana. CBD stands for Cannabidiol.

Sample of child patients to test medical marijuana at MUSC

Sulforaphane Can Help to Control Behavioral Problems Associated With Autism: Study

A latest study has suggested that a chemical present in broccoli sprout can help with behavioral problems in some people with autism.

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Drugging Children—Did You Know?

Stop telling pregnant women to go off their antidepressants

Every few months, pregnant women hear another scare story about antidepressant use: The drugs have been linked to birth defects,autism and lung problems in babies. These studies make it seem like giving up antidepressants during pregnancy is the only option, even though it might cost women their health and ability to function.

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Don't do drugs.

University of Michigan study identifies different types of early child problems

A toddler who doesn't feel guilty after misbehaving or who is less affectionate or less responsive to affection from others might not raise a red flag to parents, but these behaviors may result in later behavior problems in 1st grade.

Read More >> University of Michigan study identifies different types of early child problems

DCF: Redesign children’s mental health system

Connecticut’s child welfare agency issued an ambitious proposal to redesign the publicly financed children’s behavioral health system, calling the existing system “broken” and identifying the need for more services and better access to care.

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Another family to flee N.J. over medical marijuana

A nurse who has staged weekly protests about New Jersey's troubled medical marijuana program is joining an exodus of families with ill children for Colorado.

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Psych Meds and Foster Youth: Alameda County California takes on a National Issue

On September 29, around 50 foster youth advocates and mental health professionals crowded into a conference room in Alameda County California’s Behavioral Health Care Services (BHCS) building to discuss the steps the county can take to reduce the overmedication of children in foster care.

Read More >> Psych Meds and Foster Youth: Alameda County California takes on a National Issue