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

If you - or your child - is neurodivergent, it can often feel like the world doesn&rsquo;t always take you seriously. The challenges might be huge, but they&rsquo;re largely invisible, and often unpredictable.&nbsp; 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.
&nbsp;
In this episode:
<ul>
<li>What brain scans are revealing about ADHD and the role of movement</li>
<li>Why those with ADHD struggle to hold two ideas in their mind at one time</li>
<li>The emerging science behind the genetic basis of autism</li>
<li>Why identifying specific genetic variants can be life-changing for families</li>
<li>The ethical considerations of autism research, and why community involvement matters</li>
<li>The importance of having a biological explanation for differences</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Guests:
&nbsp;
Dr Jessie Jacobsen and Dr Ruth Monk: Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland
Dr Gil Newburn and Paul Condron:&nbsp; Mātai Medical Research Institute
&nbsp;
To support the work of the Centre for Brain Research&nbsp;<a href="https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/fmhs/research/our-research-centres/fmhs-university-research-centres/cbr/support-cbr/donate.html">click here&nbsp;</a>
&nbsp;
No Such Thing as Normal is made with the support of NZ On Air

At least 20% of New Zealanders are believed to be neurodivergent, but there is very little awareness, understanding and support for people with conditions such as ADHD, Autism and Dyslexia.

Sonia Gray has a neurodivergent daughter and is an ADHDer herself. In this 10-part series she’ll talk to dozens of experts and people with a lived-experience of neurodiversity to better understand how we can support and celebrate those whose brains are wired differently.

No Such Thing as Normal is brought to you by NZ Herald and Team Uniform, with support from NZ on Air. New episodes are available every Saturday.

At least 20% of New Zealanders are believed to be neurodivergent, but there is very little awareness, understanding and support for people with conditions such as ADHD, Autism and Dyslexia.
Sonia Gray has a neurodivergent daughter and is an ADHDer herself. In this 10-part series she&rsquo;ll talk to dozens of experts and people with a lived-experience of neurodiversity to better understand how we can support and celebrate those whose brains are wired differently.
No Such Thing as Normal is brought to you by NZ Herald and Team Uniform, with support from NZ on Air. New episodes are available every Saturday.

No Such Thing as Normal

At least 20% of New Zealanders are believed to be neurodivergent, but there is very little awareness, understanding and support for people with conditions such as ADHD, Autism and Dyslexia.

Sonia Gray has a neurodivergent daughter and is an ADHDer herself. In this 10-part series she’ll talk to dozens of experts and people with a lived-experience of neurodiversity to better understand how we can support and celebrate those whose brains are wired differently.

No Such Thing as Normal is brought to you by NZ Herald and Team Uniform, with support from NZ on Air. New episodes every Saturday.

At least 20% of New Zealanders are believed to be neurodivergent, but there is very little awareness, understanding and support for people with conditions such as ADHD, Autism and Dyslexia.
Sonia Gray has a neurodivergent daughter and is an ADHDer herself. In this 10-part series she&rsquo;ll talk to dozens of experts and people with a lived-experience of neurodiversity to better understand how we can support and celebrate those whose brains are wired differently.
No Such Thing as Normal is brought to you by NZ Herald and Team Uniform, with support from NZ on Air. New episodes every Saturday.