ARCHIVE

Although autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sometimes referred to as ADD, share a number of similar symptoms that overlap, they are two very distinct neurodevelopmental disorders requiring accurate diagnosis and treatment. Unfortunately, a lack of understanding of the distinctions between ASD and ADD/ADHD and their shared symptoms too often lead to misdiagnosis, and/or a delayed diagnosis of one or the other. This can have a number of far-reaching negative impacts including greater severity of symptoms, additional mental and physical health issues, and a lower overall quality of life. Unfortunately, a lack of understanding of the distinctions between autism and ADHD and their shared symptoms too often lead to misdiagnosis, and/or a delayed diagnosis of one or the other.
Click to tweet
What’s more, these two conditions can and often do occur together. While estimates vary, recently published research in Frontiers in Psychiatry states that 50-70% of individuals with ASD also have ADD/ADHD. And on the flip side, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that about 14% of children with ADD/ADHD also have autism diagnoses (though some estimates are much higher). Research has found that untreated ASD and ADD/ADHD both have enough influence to cause significant behavioral, emotional, academic, and social problems in school, at home, and in life in general. Here’s what you need to know about their similarities and differences.

SIMILARITIES OF AUTISM AND ADD/ADHD

Autism and ADD/ADHD are both neurodevelopmental disorders that are more prevalent in boys. Research has revealed that both disorders have a genetic component, meaning that they run in families Parents and siblings of individuals with ASD and ADD/ADHD are more likely to have the disorders themselves. Since they stem from brain development issues, a number of areas controlled by the nervous system are affected in both conditions, such as movement, language, memory, social skills, and the ability to focus. Executive function is affected in both disorders as well, which accounts for issues with impulse control, decision-making, organization, concentration, and time management.

HOW ASD AND ADD/ADHD DIFFER

How autism and ADD/ADHD are characterized helps to define their differences. Let’s take a look at what makes each a distinct disorder.

Features of Autism Spectrum Disorder

ASD is primarily characterized by difficulty with social interactions, delayed communication, and restricted or repetitive behavior. Individuals with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention. Early signs of autism may appear by age 2 or 3, or as early as one year with more severe developmental delays. The average age of diagnosis is around 4 years. Children with ASD lack the ability to comprehend the social world intuitively. Common symptoms may include any of the following and more: In 2013, Autistic Disorder, Asperger’s Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder were combined into the ASD umbrella category, which is broken into three levels:

Features of ADD/ADHD

ADD/ADHD is a developmental disorder that is characterized by the following core symptoms: Symptoms can range from mild to severe. The brain SPECT imaging work at Amen Clinics shows there are 7 types of ADD/ADHD, which share the core symptoms in addition to the following: Kids may be diagnosed as young as age 4, according to American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines, but more typically, between 8 and 10 years. ADD/ADHD has been described by experts as a disorder of self-regulation and executive function or trouble with the skills that help to manage everyday life.

SHARED ASD AND ADD/ADHD SYMPTOMS: WHY MISDIAGNOSIS HAPPENS

Here’s where things get a little tricky with ASD and ADD/ADHD. Like so many brain disorders, autism, and ADD/ADHD are not just one thing. As explained, at Amen Clinics, brain SPECT imaging has helped identify 7 types of ADD/ADHD and has revealed there are 8-10 factors that can impact abnormal brain function in ASD. Also, in young children, symptoms can change as they grow and develop. With so many variations of each disorder that can change over time, it’s not surprising that there are a number of shared or “overlap” symptoms between ASD and ADD/ADHD, which makes misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis more likely. One research study identified the following traits as the most common overlap symptoms between the two disorders: These shared symptoms make accurate diagnoses of both conditions more challenging. For example, distractibility and impulsivity—hallmarks of an ADD/ADHD diagnosis, often appear in people with ASD. Also, individuals with ADD/ADHD often have speech delays, even though this is one of the identifying features of an ASD diagnosis. Children with ADD/ADHD often get distracted easily and can lose focus when they are speaking. Autistic children have major communication deficits. Some research indicates that when there is first an ADD/ADHD diagnosis in a young child, it can mask symptoms of high-functioning autism or Asperger’s. This can lead to a misdiagnosis altogether or, on average, nearly a two-year (1.8 years) delayed diagnosis of ASD—that’s a combined figure of a 1.5-year delay in boys and a 2.6-year delay in girls.

WHEN ASD AND ADD/ADHD CO-OCCUR

As the figures above show, ADD/ADHD symptoms are very likely to be found in autistic individuals, and while ADD/ADHD individuals may also have autism, it is much less likely. The reasons why ADD/ADHD and autism may co-occur aren’t clear. One theory suggests that these independent disorders occurring together may share a common underlying etiology. More research is needed. What is clear though is that research shows that children with both ASD and ADD/ADHD are more likely to have more pronounced learning difficulties and impaired social skills than children who only have one of the disorders.

DIAGNOSING AND TREATING CO-OCCURRING ASD AND ADD/ADHD

Co-occurrence is not to be taken lightly; both disorders require proper diagnosis, which should come from a qualified specialist, not a simple diagnostic test. Brain SPECT imaging can be helpful in understanding which type of these conditions is involved and assess any other underlying factors that may be factors. Treatment for co-occurrence often starts with addressing ADD/ADHD symptoms and may include different types of therapy, such as behavioral, speech, social skills, and occupational therapies; neurofeedback; lifestyle changes; diet recommendations; nutritional supplements; and medication (when needed). The sooner you start with personalized solutions targeted to your loved one’s brain, the sooner you can minimize symptoms. When both conditions are addressed properly, it can be life-changing, not only for the person with the disorders but also for their family and loved ones. ADD/ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. By Hector Rodriguez, MD, M.Div. The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ) community includes a diverse range of people. One thing they share is a higher risk for mental health issues. Research shows that people identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual have twice the risk of having a mental health problem compared with heterosexual people. For transgender people, the risk for psychiatric issues is almost four times higher than cisgender individuals (those whose gender identity corresponds with the sex registered at birth). Because these issues are more common in the LGBTQ community, it’s important to know how to support them in the most effective ways. Research shows that people identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual have twice the risk of having a mental health problem compared with heterosexual people.
Click to tweet

UNDERSTAND GENDER IDENTITY AND SEXUAL ORIENTATION

Sexual orientation and gender identity are important facets in young people’s lives. Sexual orientation refers to a person’s emotional, sexual, and relational attraction to others, while gender identity denotes one’s inner sense of being female, male, or non-binary. As a young person develops into their teen years, it’s common to explore one’s sexuality and express identity as this is a time for self-discovery.

THE TEENAGE BRAIN’S ROLE IN SEXUALITY

The human brain isn’t fully matured until a person reaches their mid-to-late 20s. In particular, a process called myelination is still ongoing during this time. Myelination coats the brain’s nerve cells in a protective fatty sheath that accelerates cell communication. The process begins at the back bottom of the brain, which means the last brain region to benefit from myelination is the prefrontal cortex (PFC), an area involved in impulse control, decision-making, judgment, planning, forethought, follow-through, and executive functions. Because the PFC is still developing, it makes teens more likely to be impulsive and engage in risky behaviors. Research shows that increased risk-taking in adolescents is also due to changes in the brain’s socio-emotional system, including heightened reward-seeking and changes in the dopaminergic system. The neurotransmitter dopamine is involved in motivation, and these changes make teens more motivated to seek rewarding experiences despite the risks. Considering it’s also a time of sexual exploration and self-discovery, this can lead to some problems. Internet searches about sexuality may turn up misinformation that is harmful to self-esteem, direct young people to online pornography, or encourage the use of “hook-up apps.” These can open the door to high-risk behaviors and sexual situations for which a teen may not be fully prepared. After engaging in a risky rendezvous or viewing online porn, teens may feel ashamed, guilty, or, in some cases, traumatized.

WHEN TEENS FACE REJECTION DUE TO SEXUAL ORIENTATION OR GENDER IDENTITY

Teens who consider themselves part of the LGBTQ community—or who are questioning if they may be—are often hesitant to talk openly about it because they are afraid of being rejected by their family, friends, and classmates. According to the 2018 LGBTQ Youth Report, the largest survey of its kind involving more than 12,000 LGBTQ teens, these individuals experience heartbreakingly high levels of stress, anxiety, and fear. Some key findings from the report include: Feeling excluded by peers can be devastating for adolescents. Research shows that younger people are less able to cope with exclusion than adults and find it more distressing. Rejection—real or perceived—can have major consequences, including increased risk for anxiety and depression, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and homicidal thoughts and behaviors. In addition, the added stress negatively impacts brain development. In fact, toxic stress can alter brain development in ways that affect thinking, learning, and memory, and that increases the risk of mental health issues and substance abuse. At Amen Clinics, brain SPECT imaging studies show that people in the LGBTQ community who have experienced rejection often have heightened activity in the basal ganglia, which is associated with anxiety.

SIGNS A TEEN MAY BE STRUGGLING WITH SEXUAL ORIENTATION OR GENDER IDENTITY

Due to fear of rejection, teens who are or think they may be LGBTQ don’t always share this with their parents or siblings. That’s why it’s important to know the signs that a teen may be struggling, such as: Noticing these signs can give parents an opportunity to make a plan to support their teen.

HELPING LGBTQ TEENS FEEL SUPPORTED

If a teen is struggling with their sexual orientation or gender identity, it’s important for parents to create a home environment where the teen feels safe and supported. Having parental acceptance and family support reduces the rates of depressive symptoms, according to research. Other findings from the Trevor Project show that LGBTQ youth who have at least one adult who is accepting are 40% less likely to attempt suicide. This means that a parent’s acceptance can literally save a young person’s life in some cases. Here are some strategies to make the home a safe space: Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues that can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. We already know that contracting COVID-19 can damage the brain, but researchers are finding that even living through the overall experience of the pandemic has had detrimental effects on our young people. A study published in December 2022 in Biological Psychiatry: Global Open Science, which compared MRI scans from 163 teens both before and during the pandemic, offered up some interesting findings in terms of how these years of COVID-19 have impacted adolescents’ brains. One researcher noted in the post-study press release that subjects assessed after pandemic-related shutdowns “not only had more severe internalizing mental health problems, but also had reduced cortical thickness, larger hippocampal and amygdala volume.” In other words, these pandemic-era teen brains look several years older than would be expected—showing the kinds of changes that previously had been associated with children facing chronic adversity, such as domestic violence, neglect, or dysfunction in their households. Time will tell if these changes lead to worse mental health outcomes in the short- or long-term, if the changes will prove to be permanent, or if these brains will normalize over time. Either way, this study highlights the importance of the physical changes that are still occurring in brains during the teen years—which take place all the way into the mid-20s (and as late as age 28 in men). Let’s look at what’s happening behind the scenes to better understand the crucial brain developments that are taking place in teens. While healthy routines are a great idea, be mindful of not getting too stuck in a rut—teens benefit from establishing those positive habits, but not leaving room for creativity and challenging oneself will actually be detrimental.
Click to tweet

TEEN BRAIN DEVELOPMENT THROUGH THE YEARS

We’ve all heard that it’s easier to learn a new skill—a sport, musical instrument, or second language—when starting at a younger age. That’s because as early as age 11, the brain starts to shed connections that are not being utilized. Other typical developments in the preteen and early teen years include thinking for themselves, seeking to define their identity, and pushing back against their parents (which often includes testing boundaries and limits). By 14 years old, teens can further separate themselves from their parents and even become withdrawn or critical of them in further efforts to individuate. They may start to consider or gravitate toward a certain career or life path, and they’re likely to be increasingly concerned about their looks. Friendships may come and go, but at the same time, these connections are increasingly important in their lives. Thus, peer pressure and influence are also strengthening from the early teen years, which can be positive if the surrounding environment is a healthy one—or dangerous when getting mixed up with the wrong crowd, like one that is modeling underage drinking or cannabis use. Because these habits exert serious negative impacts on the brain, they can be especially insidious for young people, since they disrupt or delay healthy development. Though parents may become frustrated about teenagers who assert their independence yet still make the wrong decisions or take unnecessary risks, keep in mind that this reflects a normal stage of the brain’s development. That’s because the prefrontal cortex (PFC)—involved with judgment, impulse control, and learning from mistakes—is the last part of the brain to develop, and it’s still maturing through adolescence and even into the 20s. During this time, emotions can overrule logic, and simultaneously the limbic system is particularly active (influencing feelings, bonding, and peer acceptance), leading to a strong desire to fit in. Therefore, it’s important for parents to model the right behaviors and step in when needed to guide teens on their decisions, then help them process through negative consequences to encourage them to learn from their mistakes. Luckily, this rocky mid-teen stage doesn’t last forever. Though their brains are still developing, by the late teens (17 to 19 years old), they have established a firmer sense of their own identities, have learned to delay gratification, and are able to better understand potential consequences before they act. Meanwhile, the PFC continues to develop, leading to better judgment, and late teens’ relationships generally enjoy more stability.

CREATING HEALTHY VS. UNHEALTHY TEENAGE BRAINS

Too many teens are not receiving the benefit of education on mental health topics—even though most of them (more than 86%) believe it is an important subject—but remember that mental health is brain health. Like adults, teenagers benefit from brain optimization—after all, in these key years of development, we are setting the scene by creating healthy habits that will ideally carry through the rest of life. And, when we can optimize the physical function of the brain, we create better moods. Moreover, young people today are facing many different challenges than in previous generations. In addition to the effects of the pandemic, technology has certainly helped contribute to shrinking attention spans—one recent study by Microsoft found that humans now have an 8-second attention span (1 second less than a goldfish), while modern-day practices like excessive texting and multitasking can shed 10 IQ points off a human brain! That’s not all. Those who obsess over social media have been shown to have a smaller area of the brain that executes key functions like processing emotions and showing restraint, meaning that these people can exhibit more impulsive behavior, with less emotional regulation. This is especially concerning in teen brains, which are still developing in the PFC region. How can we help teen brains become more healthy as they develop? There are a host of behaviors that should be avoided, while teens should seek out those activities and habits that boost brain health. Here are some examples of what to avoid: On the other hand, healthy practices can include mental and physical exercise, meditation, gratitude and appreciation practices, relaxation techniques to lower stress levels, avoiding sports that expose teens to brain injury, maintaining a healthy weight, positive thinking, and listening to classical music (shown to increase energy and focus). And, while healthy routines are a great idea, be mindful of not getting too stuck in a rut—teens benefit from establishing those positive habits, but not leaving room for creativity and challenging oneself will actually be detrimental. For many of us, the teen years were a tumultuous but unforgettable time—full of ups and downs, high drama and humbling life lessons, close school chums, and beloved school memories. But nowadays we have a lot more information about the brain’s workings to explain all of those once-mysterious feelings that accompany our coming of age, and we know how to set up our young people for a lifetime of success ahead by instituting those healthy habits early! Brain and mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Children and teens in the U.S. are struggling with mental health disorders more than ever before—and they are not getting the help they need. Before the pandemic, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, indicated nearly 1 in 5 children in the U.S. suffer from mental health disorders, yet only about 20% of those children receive care from a mental health provider. Estimates from the U.S. Surgeon General indicate most children struggling with mental disorders do not receive treatment, even in cases of well-recognized conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sometimes referred to as attention deficit disorder (ADD). Late last year, amidst the added stressors of the pandemic, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory claiming a mental health crisis amongst youths. Indeed, one published analysis found depressive and anxiety symptoms in kids doubled to 25.2% and 20.5%, respectively. Nearly 1 in 5 children in the U.S. suffer from mental health disorders, yet only about 20% of those children receive care from a mental health provider.
Click to tweet
Primary care doctors only catch the signs of a psychiatric issue about 25% of the time—and that usually results from a parent alerting them to a potential problem, according to one study. It underscores the critical role a parent can play in getting their child properly diagnosed and treated for mental health conditions.

DIFFICULTY RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES IN KIDS

It can be difficult for a parent to recognize a potential mental health issue in their child or teen. Research shows this to be true. The implications of treating a potential psychiatric problem—such as finding the right help and dedicating financial resources—and the existing stigma surrounding mental health issues can factor into a parent’s inability to see the signs and take action. A general lack of knowledge and understanding about the signs of mental health disorders is another major reason why so many mental health issues go undetected and untreated, according to a 2021 study. This can be especially true for struggling teens, who are expected to rebel, make poor decisions, act impulsively, be prone to moodiness, and keep their inner lives hidden from adults. A parent may write off certain signals of mental health distress as simply “teen” behavior. However, an educated parent can tell the difference and take action. If you are a parent of a child or teen, here are the warning signs that tell you it’s time for your child to have a psychiatric evaluation.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MENTAL ILLNESS IN KIDS AND TEENS

Let’s first look at the signs of more severe cases of psychiatric illness. About a decade ago, officials from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the Center for Mental Health Services tasked a group of highly skilled child mental health epidemiologists, parent/advocacy representatives, and policy experts from top research institutions such as the Mayo Clinic, Duke University, Harvard Medical School, and others to determine simple, easily understood, scientifically derived warning signs of mental health issues in children specifically for parents, teachers, school counselors, and lay people. They analyzed epidemiological data from more than 6,000 children and parents and sought to identify symptoms of severe but mostly untreated mental health problems. They came up with the following 11 warning signs, which was published in the medical journal Pediatrics. Keep in mind that these warning signs are differentiated from other problematic behavior when the behavior persists over time, impacts a child’s functioning, or affects other people.

11 WARNING SIGNS YOUR CHILD MAY NEED A PSYCHIATRIC EVALUATION

  1. Feeling extremely sad or withdrawn for greater than 2 weeks
  2. Having made or making serious plans to harm or kill themselves
  3. Sudden, overwhelming fear not tied to any particular reason sometimes experienced with a racing heart or fast breathing
  4. Getting involved in multiple fights; using a weapon, or strongly desiring to hurt others
  5. Severe, out-of-control behavior that can endanger themselves or others
  6. Not eating, throwing up, or taking laxatives to make themselves shed weight
  7. Intense worries or fears that get in the way of their day-to-day activities
  8. Immense difficulty in concentrating or remaining still that puts them in physical danger or causes school failure
  9. Repeated use of drugs or alcohol
  10. Strong mood swings that cause problems in relationships with others
  11. Dramatic changes in their behavior or personality
If you observe just one of these behaviors in your child or teen, it is recommended that you take them to see a qualified mental health professional for an evaluation.

MORE TIPS FOR RECOGNIZING THE NEED FOR MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT IN KIDS

In addition to the warning signs noted in the meta-analysis above, the NIMH also provides a general list of more nuanced symptoms/signs for parents to look for, which are specific to a child’s age. Again, remember that some behavioral problems may come and go, but when there’s likely a mental health issue the signs and symptoms last weeks or months. If you notice that any of the signs interfere with your child’s daily life at home and at school, or with friends, it’s time to contact a mental health professional.

SIGNS A YOUNG CHILD MAY NEED A PSYCHIATRIC EVALUATION

SIGNS AN OLDER CHILD OR TEEN MAY NEED A PSYCHIATRIC EVALUATION

These are not the only signs of a mental health issue, but they are the most studied and common. Remember that no one knows your child as you do. Do not discount your own “gut” feelings when something is amiss.

PRIORITIZE YOUR CHILD’S MENTAL HEALTH

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) recommends that parents start early with regular emotional “check-ins” with children to ensure better mental health. They suggest making a safe space for your child to share openly without fear of retaliation. Listen and validate your child’s experiences. It’s important for them to feel you are eager to hear about their life in a supportive, non-judgmental way. Starting this practice early in life teaches your child the language of emotional expression and makes it much more likely that they will open up when they are struggling mentally. Mental health issues in a child or teen can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. By Daniel G. Amen, MD Content updated from previous publish date. Do you have fears or anxiousness that you can’t explain? It’s one thing to experience some form of trauma and then have anxiety related to that incident. But why do some worries seem to exist for no apparent reason? Irrational fears, anxiety, and worries are often due to Ancestral Dragons, the inner “mental dragons” that are inherited from your parents or other relatives. With these dragons, the issues you have are in fact not your own, but rather passed down to you from your ancestors.  They’re some of the sneakiest dragons of the 13 Dragons from the Past that can continue to haunt you. Unless you recognize and tame these dragons, they can run wild in your brain and ruin your life. Irrational fears, anxiety, and worries are often due to Ancestral Dragons, the inner “mental dragons” that are inherited from your parents or other relatives.
Click to tweet

SIGNS YOU MAY HAVE ANCESTRAL DRAGONS

Issues that can be passed down to you through your ancestors’ genes, behaviors, or cultural expectations include: If you experience these signs, you may have Ancestral Dragons that are related to your parents, grandparents, or earlier ancestors.

HOW COMMON ARE ANCESTRAL DRAGONS AND GENERATIONAL TRAUMA?

Ancestral Dragons are far too common in our society. Through a process called epigenetics, you can inherit your ancestor’s fears, worries, or even prejudices without ever being aware of it. The anxiety or trauma is written in your genetic code. For example, children and grandchildren of Holocaust survivors have a higher risk of anxiety disorders and PTSD. In a similar way, 9/11 survivors; children of the Cambodian and Rwanda genocide survivors; children of those who survived abandonment; people who have had a loved one die by suicide; anyone who has lived in a war zone; children of refugees; or those who have experienced the early death of a child, parent, or sibling often have their nervous system so deeply affected that it changes the nature of their genes to impact their offspring for generations. Research confirms the impact of generational trauma. Children of a parent struggling with PTSD are three times more likely to have PTSD themselves. Thirty percent of kids with a parent who served in Iraq or Afghanistan and developed PTSD had similar symptoms. Native American teens on reservations have the highest suicide rate in the Western Hemisphere. In some places, it is 10 to 19 times higher than other American teens and young adults, according to a 2015 article. It is as if the endless massacres against Native Americans continue. Some scholars believe generational grief is fueling the epidemic.

WHAT TRIGGERS ANCESTRAL DRAGONS?

It’s often unknown what triggers the Ancestral Dragons. It can be any unconscious reminders of stressful times stored in our genes. It can be when you were the same age as a parent or grandparent when they had the original trauma. Take a look at this Amen Clinics patient, who is a prime example. She stayed in an abusive marriage for 20 years because she could never sleep alone after the age of 22. During therapy, while searching for her Ancestral Dragons, she revealed that her mother had been raped at age 22 causing terrible anxiety and insomnia. Knowing the origin of her fear of sleeping alone helped her heal and move on from the toxic relationship. Sometimes your anxiety is just not your own.

ANCESTRAL DRAGONS AND GENERATIONAL TRAUMA IN THE BRAIN

Generational trauma can cause changes in the brain. In a large study in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, children of depressed parents had smaller volume in the pleasure centers of the brain, making the children more vulnerable to depression themselves. And the societal traumas keep coming. A 2020 paper in JAMA Internal Medicine suggested that the aftermath of physical distancing and COVID-19 will bring a rise in anxiety, depression, substance abuse, loneliness, and domestic violence. It is likely that global trauma will impact future generations.

6 WAYS TO TAME THE ANCESTRAL DRAGONS AND GENERATIONAL TRAUMA

Ancestral trauma can affect generations, but it can be stopped with the right strategies. To tame the Ancestral Dragons:
  1. Know your family history. Get as much detail as possible, so you will be aware of past traumas experienced by your ancestors.
  2. Talk to your parents, grandparents, or family historian. It can help you understand some of your own automatic reactions.
  3. Work to separate your ancestors’ issues from your own issues. This can help you to live in the present rather than the past. This may require professional help. If you sense Ancestral Dragons breathing fire on your emotional brain, read It Didn’t Start with You by Mark Wolynn.
  4. Reduce exposure to triggers. This doesn’t mean avoiding your family’s past or pretending it didn’t exist. Rather, it means you don’t have to subject yourself to painful reminders that cause you to relive the trauma over and over.
  5. Design a new future. Focus on creating a future for yourself that is no longer stuck in the pain of ancestral trauma. Imagine yourself living in a way that you are not weighed down by the chains of your ancestors. When you can envision this, you may break the cycle of generational trauma.
  6. Try somatic experiencing. This type of trauma psychotherapy involves paying close attention to your inner body sensations as a way to regulate emotions. It is similar to mindfulness practices that help you tune in to your body to achieve a desired emotional state. A mental health professional can guide you through the process more effectively.
Learning about your Ancestral Dragons can help you stop being stuck in the pain of the past, so you can create a brighter future for yourself and your offspring. With practice, you can stop the cycle of ancestral emotional pain and make the next generation better and stronger. Emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Some years after the turn of the millennium, “adult” suddenly became a verb—an umbrella term to describe the various tasks that “grown-ups” are expected to perform, like paying the bills, running errands, tackling chores around the house, and working a steady job. But these supposedly basic to-dos can feel like gargantuan endeavors among young adults who struggle with mental health issues. And, while young adults are seeking psychiatric help in greater numbers than ever, they are also more in need of that help than in generations past.   While taking steps toward treatment for more Americans is always positive, it also begs the question of why young adults are struggling at higher numbers than ever—and what we can do to help them through their younger years.
Click to tweet

YOUNG ADULTS FACE MORE MENTAL HEALTH STRUGGLES THAN EVER

In September 2022, results were released from the National Health Interview Survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), examining mental health trends from 2019 to 2021. The percentage of adults ages 18 to 44 who had received any mental health treatment (e.g., counseling, medication, or therapy) in the previous 12 months increased in those years, rising from 18.5% to 23.2%. Women were more likely than men to have received treatment, and these numbers rose most noticeably in non-Hispanic White (from 23.8% to 30.4%) and non-Hispanic Asian (from 6.0% to 10.8%) adults. This increase was reflected in communities of various sizes, not only in large metropolitan areas. While taking steps toward treatment for more Americans is always positive, it also begs the question of why young adults are struggling at higher numbers than ever—and what we can do to help them through their often-tumultuous younger years. Naturally, the COVID-19 pandemic has played a critical role in mental health and overall stress. A study published in April 2022 noted that young adults’ (ages 18 to 25) anxiety and depression symptoms increased over pre-pandemic levels, according to findings from a national Household Pulse Survey taken from June to July 2021. Ultimately, 48% of young adults reported experiencing mental health symptoms, but only 39% received treatment, while 36% reported that their needs for mental health counseling and/or therapy were going unmet. However, looking back at a longer stretch of time to review mental health trends among young adults, we can see that these numbers were growing even before the pandemic turned many Americans’ worlds upside-down. According to research published in 2019 by the American Psychological Association (APA), the percentage of young Americans experiencing certain types of mental health disorders had risen significantly over the past decade. The APA findings, generated from survey responses from more than 300,000 adolescents ages 12 to 17 from 2005 to 2017, and almost 400,000 adults ages 18 and over from 2008 to 2017, showed a 52% increase in reported depression symptoms in the previous 12 months among adolescents, and 63% among young adults (ages 18 to 25). There was also a 71% increase in young adults experiencing serious psychological distress in the previous 30 days, while the rate of young adults with suicidal thoughts or other suicide-related issues increased by 47% from 2008 to 2017. In contrast, older adults did not report higher levels of depression or psychological distress over these time periods, with those older than 65 even showing a slight decline. The lead author of the study speculated that cultural shifts, such as a move from in-person to online socializing, more screen time, and less sleep, may have contributed to these changes in younger populations.

SUPPORTING YOUNG ADULTS THROUGH MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES

If you know a young adult who is struggling with mental health issues, there are several steps you can take to help. First, open the topic of conversation directly, but gently. If you’ve noted behavior that points toward mental health struggles—such as changes in weight or sleep, or loss of interest in activities—you can calmly note the changes and why you’re concerned. Or, if nothing immediately stands out but you want to do a “temperature check” on their overall mental health, you can simply ask open-ended questions: How are you feeling mentally and emotionally lately? What are your biggest mental health challenges right now? How are you currently coping with life stressors? You can point out that older adults struggle with mental health, too—knowing that no one is immune can help young adults feel less alone. When the young adult is answering your questions (or when sharing struggles without being asked), use active listening skills, which means paying full attention to verbal and nonverbal cues and even repeating what you have heard to reflect their experiences back to them. Rather than lecturing, criticizing, or stepping in to “fix” the problem, you can say something like, “That sounds so difficult. I’m sorry you’re experiencing those challenges right now.” While it may be an appropriate choice to share occasional helpful information on the topic(s) they are struggling with (resist the urge to bombard them with “help”), allow the young person to work through their challenges at their own pace. Over time, lending a nonjudgmental ear will enable more trust and encourage their willingness to share. You’ll also want to talk about subjects outside of mental health so that the person knows they are more than their condition. Avoid being too forceful about their need to seek help, but also be willing to help out with options for treatment, should they decide that’s the best path for them.

YOUNG ADULTS AND PTSD

In cases of PTSD after a traumatic incident—a condition that’s estimated to affect 1 in 30 American adults each year, with a much higher prevalence among veterans—a young adult may experience debilitating effects. (PTSD also increased during the pandemic.) These can include intense, distressing memories of the event; increased or excessive anxiety; trouble sleeping; anger and irritability; depression symptoms; and social isolation. Learn all you can about this issue, and understand that talking about these events can be next to impossible and should be worked out with a mental health professional. If help is desired, you may offer to go along with them, for support, to a psychiatrist, therapist, or VA clinic. Let them know you’re willing to listen—if and when they’re ready—and be patient. Finally, encourage community connection among young adults, who can lack in-person exposure. Many mental health struggles can feel less intimidating when shared with a community of people who are going through similar challenges. It can also add joy, fun, and laughter to life among populations (such as those with depression or PTSD) who may have a tendency to isolate. Physical activities, like walking, riding bikes, or yoga—done with a buddy or a group—offer a double benefit of face-to-face social time and exercise, which helps reduce stress and the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Even in cases when all hope seems lost, cutting-edge technologies like brain SPECT imaging studies can find the root causes of mental health issues that may have been overlooked by other professionals—and can help determine the appropriate treatment plan to help. Of course, if a young adult is in danger of causing harm to themselves or others, or cannot care for themselves, seek help immediately or call 911. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. As the start of the school year nears, parents and kids—many already struggling mentally from the recent years of disrupted routines—may feel greater stress and anxiety with this year’s back-to-school hustle. Once again, there will be complex and changing COVID protocols to be followed in order to facilitate safe, in-person instruction for students of all ages. Although with vaccinations now available to young children, school officials are hopeful disruptions will be fewer and easier to manage. However, the vaccination issue itself is fraught with its own stresses, tension, anxiety, and fears. To reduce stress and prepare for the school year schedule, the brain health and mental health experts at Amen Clinics recommend adding regulating routines back into your child’s day at least a couple weeks before school begins.
Click to tweet
Yet, the culmination of COVID-related challenges, including disruptions to normal school and work routines, financial hardships, health challenges, and losses have taken a toll on teachers, kids, and parents alike. While some kids look forward to in-person instruction, others thrived with remote learning, making for a mixed bag of emotions with the return to school. If that weren’t enough, now skyrocketing inflation adds another level of stress on parents struggling to afford the expense of back-to-school clothing, school supplies, and after-school care for those that work. With these numerous challenges, it’s more important than ever for parents and kids to find effective ways to find resilience and refuge. Here are tips, based on the advice of the brain health and mental health experts at Amen Clinics as well as scientific research to help you and your family navigate this year’s back-to-school hustle with less stress.

5 TIPS TO SOOTHE BACK-TO-SCHOOL STRESS

1. Resume a Routine

When kids are out of school for the summer, routines often take a vacation too. To reduce stress and prepare for the school year schedule, add regulating routines back into your child’s day at least a couple of weeks before school begins. If your kids are without a bedtime, set one that can be maintained when school starts. It will give them the opportunity to adjust and help them get much-needed sleep, which benefits mood and immune system function. If they are sleeping in late, start waking them close to the time they’ll need to get up for school and be consistent. If they’ve been off with scheduled meals, begin sticking to regular meal times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Give them a regular chore to do, and perhaps add a couple of fun rituals into the evening or weekend routine that can continue after school starts. It is also recommended to schedule a couple of play dates or activities with one of your child’s peers that they know well during the first few weeks of school. Spending time with peers can be very beneficial psychologically and help to reduce stress during transitional or high-stress periods. Following a routine can help reduce stress and anxiety levels while promoting resilience. (That applies to parents, too!) A 2021 study conducted during the early phase of the COVID pandemic showed that families who had routines enjoyed greater well-being and resilience than those who did not.

2. Get Informed and Be Prepared for School

Gathering information and making preparations can help to quell the fear of the unknown that comes with a new school year, especially one amidst an ongoing pandemic. For example, find out as soon as possible about school COVID protocols so that you can prepare by having test kits, masks, or plans should remote learning return due to surges. Help reduce your child’s stress by sharing with them in a simple way so they can understand what COVID safety will look like for them. If you have a teen, talk to them about it and let them know your plan. Of course, there are ways to mitigate back-to-school jitters. If your child is attending a new school, review the drop-off routine by going to the school and doing a run-through. Walk on the campus, if it is open. Review school supplies lists with your children and take inventory of what you have to provide a clear idea of what you’ll need. If inflation has you worried about how to best afford back-to-school clothing and supplies, take time to research the best deals for school supplies online or find out where you can get donated school supplies. If you are concerned about affording meals at school, find out the current policy at your child’s school. While free school meals may be limited to low-income families, there’s a program called the “Community Eligibility Provision” that may make free meals available to all students.

3. Talk to Your Kids About Going Back to School

Decades of clinical practice in child and adult psychiatry at Amen Clinics show that talking about stressful situations with a trusted adult can help kids and teens. Talking allows them to put things in perspective and find solutions. One way to encourage your child to talk is to spend time with them engaged in activities that are naturally conducive to talking. For example, with a younger child, bath time and bedtime provide a great window to talk. If you read to your child at night, you might even want to select a back-to-school-themed book. The drive home from school can sometimes be a great place to listen. If you are quiet, kids often open up. If you have an older teen, try an activity together. Go see a movie, show them how to fix something in the garage, or cook a meal together. Ask your child open-ended questions (as opposed to yes/no questions) and be quiet. Really listen. They may have very different concerns than you think. Let them know it’s OK to feel anxious and stressed. Help them to find their own solutions, but be careful not to rush in to “fix it.” Don’t forget that you need to talk as well. Talk to your partner or a trusted friend. And if you or your children are particularly burdened by anxiety, depression, trouble with focus (such as with ADD/ADHD), aggression, or other issues, reach out to a mental health professional for help.

4. Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself

You are the leader of your family and set an example for your children. Make your health and well-being a priority during this stressful transitional time. It may mean saying “no” to plans and requests in order to conserve your energy. Ensure the basics: getting 7-9 hours of restful sleep; consuming a brain healthy diet of lean protein, colorful fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, whole grains—and very little refined carbohydrates, sugar, and alcohol; and getting plenty of exercise and stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, and spending time engaged in things you enjoy. These basic tenets of health are also about routine and self-regulation. They will help to keep you steady amidst a stormy sea. However, do not get down on yourself if you struggle with your self-care during this time. Do what you can. Even just one healthy action makes a difference. If practicing basic self-care is too challenging or you are struggling with depression or a substance abuse problem, seek help from a mental health professional.

5. Exercise in Nature and Enjoy Life

Numerous studies show that spending time in nature and exercise help to reduce stress for kids and adults. A Japanese study followed 420 subjects in 35 different forests throughout Japan to examine the health effects of nature. The results were extraordinary: Stress hormones, blood pressure, and heart rates decreased. Exercise reduces tension and promotes the release of feel-good brain chemicals that elevate mood and support calm. Regular exercise may help you and your kids to sleep better, too! Take your kids to the park, the beach, a pool, or the backyard, and play! Enjoy life together. Keep it really simple. Even a half-hour or 15 minutes can make a difference. In fact, this is an excellent activity to build into your “routine” and one that continues after school begins. Stress, anxiety, and mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Being bullied in childhood is associated with a range of negative effects, with physical changes taking place in the brain and a greater risk of anxiety, depression, suicide, and substance abuse. It’s devastating for any parent to discover their child is being bullied—but finding out that your child is the bully can be just as troublesome. There are warning signs that may indicate whether your child may be prone to—or already engaging in—bullying behavior. When faced with such a situation, the initial instincts of a parent may generate feelings of denial, anger, dismay, or indignation. But it’s a better idea to evaluate the situation with a calm head, sit down with your child to discuss the issue, and take gentle steps to point toward healthier ways of interacting with peers. Read on for the potential signs of bullying and some healthy ways to face it. While many equate bullies with irresponsible parenting or troubled households, not every bully is the product of a dysfunctional or fractured home life.
Click to tweet

WATCH OUT FOR THESE BULLYING RED FLAGS

According to the governmental organization StopBullying, bullying is defined as an aggressive act that involves a power imbalance, often occurring repeatedly over time. Though many picture this behavior as stereotypical physical aggression on the playground, bullying doesn’t stop (or start) there—it can also include actions like threats, rumors, verbal attacks, or excluding someone from a group with harmful intent. Today, it may even take place virtually, with cyberbullying a growing problem in the age of social media. While many equate bullies with irresponsible parenting or troubled households, not every bully is the product of a dysfunctional or fractured home life. The Child Mind Institute notes that bullies can be basically good kids who simply made mistakes, perhaps as a result of wanting to fit in with friends, a desire for extra attention, or a tendency to incorrectly perceive peers’ behavior as threatening. However, there are some red flags that a young person may demonstrate before or while engaging in bullying behavior. STOMP Out Bullying, an organization for kids and teens, notes that a bully may exhibit a range of signs or characteristics, including:
  1. Trouble with authority figures. Does your child behave aggressively toward adults, teachers, parents, etc.? Emotional dysregulation can lead to outbursts and bullying behavior in adolescents.
  2. A need for control or dominance. The child may be excessively competitive or overly preoccupied with social status.
  3. Impulsive or limit-testing behaviors. Failure to think before acting, as well as rule-breaking and pushing boundaries, can accompany a tendency toward bullying.
  4. Lack of sympathy for those who are bullied, or positive views of violence in general. Studies have shown a link between violence on TV and video games with decreased sensitivity to others’ suffering, and an increase in aggressive or harmful behavior.
  5. A hot temper. Be aware that excessive anger issues can also signal a more serious mental health condition.
  6. A knack for talking their way out of difficult situations. Bullies’ manipulative and controlling tendencies may fashion them into smooth operators.
  7. A history of being bullied. Interestingly, some bullies are simply trying to regain a sense of control after they have fallen victim to bullies themselves, including within their own family system, such as by a sibling.

BULLYING AND THE BRAIN

Plenty of researchers have looked at the link between bullying and the human brain. A study published in 2019, which examined the interaction between the brain’s amygdala activity and being shown angry and fearful faces, showed that a combination of higher amygdala activity to angry faces and lower amygdala activity to fearful faces predicted more bullying behavior. On the other hand, lower amygdala activity to both angry and fearful faces predicted less. In other words, the participants more prone to bullying were more reactive to anger and less disturbed by fear (i.e., of potential victims). The report noted previous studies’ findings—for example, that bullying adolescents have shown heightened activity in the brain’s emotion and motivation regions during risk-taking, and decreased activity in the medial prefrontal cortex when they anticipated a reward. Bullies have also demonstrated “enhanced sensitivity toward social exclusion,” a topic explored in another 2019 study. It found that adolescents’ bullying was associated with greater activation in certain brain regions, including the ventral striatum, amygdala, medial prefrontal cortex, and insula, when viewing social exclusion. “Activation in these regions is commonly associated with reward-learning, salience monitoring, and motivational processes,” the study noted, which suggests that bullies may simply process things differently when it comes to interpreting interpersonal cues and experiences.

HOW TO INTERVENE IN YOUR CHILD’S BULLYING BEHAVIOR

With research showing clear links between bullying and the brain, technology such as brain SPECT imaging can help determine activity in the still-developing brain of a young person (and if deeper issues may be lurking). Since young brains continue to develop until their mid-20s, issues that go undetected have the potential to alter brain development and potentially lead to lasting effects on how the brain functions. Behavioral problems are some of the most commonly diagnosed conditions in adolescents, and receiving the proper treatment can make a lasting impact—not only on the child in question but on everyone who interacts with that child, including victims of bullying. If you suspect bullying, it’s a good idea to sit down with your child and look at the behavior, without overreacting or jumping to conclusions. The Child Mind Institute reveals helpful tactics for this kind of talk: By employing a nonjudgmental and empathetic approach, you’ll not only encourage better behavior—you’ll be an exemplary parental model for solving problems without the use of anger or aggression. Bullying behaviors and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Does your child have difficulty containing their emotions, exhibiting explosive bouts of anger, or crying? Do you have a teen struggling with excessive anxiousness, depression, or suicidal thoughts, or who engages in self-harm or dangerous, impulsive behavior? Or do you have trouble managing your own emotions, to the point of losing jobs, friends, or romantic partners? These are signs of emotional dysregulation, also called affect dysregulation.     Emotional dysregulation can be devastatingly destructive to relationships, family life, school life, work life, and overall well-being.
Click to tweet

WHAT IS EMOTIONAL DYSREGULATION AND WHAT CAUSES IT?

Defined as an incapacity to manage emotional responses well or to keep them within an acceptable range of typical emotional reactions, emotional dysregulation is believed to affect roughly 5% of the population. It can be devastatingly destructive to relationships, family life, school life, work life, and overall well-being. Although it is more commonly seen amongst children and adolescents, it can persist into adulthood. Emotional dysregulation is not a disorder in itself, but it often plays a central role in a number of mental health conditions. Research suggests affect dysregulation may have a variety of causes including:

EMOTIONAL DYSREGULATION IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

A child’s capacity to regulate their emotional state and emotional responses positively impact their family, peers, academic success, and long-term mental well-being, as well as their ability to successfully navigate life as they grow into young adults. It’s a critical component of development. Yet, some children struggle to manage their emotions. They may experience difficulty registering emotions, responding with emotions that are appropriate to a given situation or regulating emotional responses in social interactions. Signs of emotional dysregulation in early childhood may include: Adolescents may cry more intensely than what is appropriate to a situation or have angry outbursts for no justifiable reason. They can show aggression towards themselves or others, or they may exhibit impulsive behavior that involves harmful risk-taking. They may swing between emotional extremes—blissfully happy one moment and deeply depressed the next. Overall, emotionally dysregulated adolescents have trouble interacting socially and often show marked signs of behavioral issues, especially at school. All of these symptoms are magnified in teens, and it can be alarming for parents. Their anger destroys relationships. Fear can manifest as debilitating anxiety or panic attacks. Sadness can turn to excessive crying, extreme depression, and self-harm. Behavior becomes extreme and risky: They might drive too fast, spend all their money, possibly shoplift, start smoking or drinking and be promiscuous without using protection.

EMOTIONAL DYSREGULATION AND MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS

Emotional dysregulation is often a precursor to or a major symptom of a number of mental health disorders, research suggests. It has been linked to: For example, up to 80% of children with ADD/ADHD report problems with emotional dysregulation, according to experts. It can also manifest in those with ADD/ADHD as socially inappropriate behavioral responses to strong emotion, which is compounded by guilt and shame. In adolescents, research indicates that eating disorders and other compulsive behavior is believed to be a strategy to manage affect dysregulation. It’s important to seek assessment so that mental health disorders can be treated along with emotional dysregulation since they are so closely linked.

CHILDHOOD TRAUMA AND EMOTIONAL DYSREGULATION

Research suggests that children and adolescents who experience childhood trauma are twice as likely to develop a mental health disorder. It also predisposes them to attachment disorders. And as it turns out, it may increase their risk of emotional dysregulation too. Indeed, they are all interrelated. This may be because of the neurobiological impact of trauma on brain function. When a child experiences trauma—ranging from neglect to physical abuse—the brain is affected. One brain SPECT imaging study in Plos One on trauma survivors found increased activity in the limbic system, which is considered the emotional center of the brain. Another study in Neuropsychopharmacology examining trauma-exposed teens found compromised function of the prefrontal cortex (involved in emotion regulation and impulse control) and amygdala (involved with fear and the encoding of emotional events), in addition to difficulty regulating emotions. Invalidation of a child’s experience or feelings is another form of relational trauma. This occurs when a person’s emotional expressions are dismissed, neglected, or criticized by caregivers. Research suggests there may be a generational aspect involved in emotional dysregulation. A study in the Journal of Child and Family Studies found that parents with this trait are more likely to disregard their adolescent’s emotionality, resulting in greater odds that their offspring will also develop problems managing emotions. Hence, adults must check for affect dysregulation in themselves.

AFFECT DYSREGULATION IN ADULTS

Adults need emotional regulation just like children and adolescents. A high degree of emotional regulation in adults is associated with higher levels of well-being, disposable income, and socioeconomic status, according to research in the journal Emotion. Conversely, emotional dysregulation can lead to a lifetime of struggles including problems with interpersonal relationships, trouble with academic performance, and the inability to function effectively in a job or at work. For adults, emotional dysregulation may manifest as a big emotional response that is overblown to the situation at hand. Dysregulated adults also have trouble calming down after an emotional trigger, as well as a tendency to avoid difficult feelings and to focus on the negative. They may exhibit impulsive behavior surrounding out-of-control feelings of fear, sadness, frustration, and anger. An emotionally dysregulated adult may have difficulty discerning what they are feeling when they get upset. Strong emotions may feel so confusing, overwhelming, or riddled with guilt, a dysregulated person often has trouble making decisions or controlling their own behavior.

SOLUTIONS FOR BETTER EMOTIONAL REGULATION

There’s hope for both children and adults with affect dysregulation. If you recognize emotional dysregulation in your child or yourself—or both, it’s important to seek the help of a mental health professional. Once it is identified and a comprehensive assessment is made to identify root causes, emotional regulation techniques can be learned and related mental health—and brain health—disorders can be addressed. Research in Frontiers in Psychology showed improvement in emotional regulation with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, hypnosis, and meditation.  Neurofeedback also has been shown to support emotional regulation in patients with PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health disorders, according to a 2019 study in Neuroimage. Additional tools and strategies are available to treat past trauma, brain injuries, and related mental health issues. Finding the root causes of affect dysregulation is the key to discovering the most effective solutions. Problems with emotional dysregulation and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. While most mothers-to-be are aware of the hallmark symptoms of pregnancy—nausea, fatigue, tender/swollen breasts, sensitivity to smells, loosening joints, swelling hands and feet, hair and skin changes, etc.—the profound changes to the brain during the same period are often overlooked or grossly misunderstood. “Mommy brain” is the term given to the symptoms of mental fogginess and forgetfulness without a deeper grasp of the brain metamorphosis taking place.     Based on research developments in recent years, experts now believe that a woman’s brain essentially restructures itself to be better prepared for the demands of being a mother.
Click to tweet
In recent years, researchers have come to understand that pregnancy and early motherhood is a period of radical change to the female brain. In fact, the brain undergoes its most rapid and dramatic changes during this time than at any other time in a mother’s life, including puberty. Mommy brain symptoms are likely an indication of something greater happening in the brain—a transformation of sorts. Based on research developments in recent years, experts now believe that a woman’s brain essentially restructures itself to be better prepared for the demands of being a mother. The altered brain appears to help women be sensitive and effective caretakers who are less affected by stress and more focused on the needs of their infants. What’s more, the brain changes during pregnancy and early motherhood may likely boost brain function permanently. It seems “supermom brain” would be a more fitting term for this period of transformation! Let’s take a closer look.

WHAT IS MOMMY BRAIN?

Mommy brain generally refers to the cognitive changes, such as momentary memory lapses and brain fogginess, that happen anytime during pregnancy or after birth. It’s also called pregnancy brain, mom brain, momnesia, or baby brain, and it is very common. Between 50 and 80% of pregnant women report thinking problems during pregnancy and postpartum, according to the American Psychological Association. Mommy brain is a real occurrence. A recent 2021 study measured the cognitive function of pregnant women in their second and third trimesters. The study found “an impairment in memory among pregnant women” and noted that language skills, particularly naming, were also diminished. While mommy brain can partly result from lack of sleep and multitasking, researchers believe it has more to do with a surge of pregnancy hormones. There are 15 to 40 times more progesterone and estrogen “marinating” the brain during pregnancy. Progesterone is known to have a sedating effect, which could affect cognition. The hormonal influx likely triggers the architectural changes within the brain, which factors in as well.

PREGNANCY AND THE BRAIN

Starting in the early 2000s, scientists began taking note of structural changes in the brain related to pregnancy. A 2002 study found that women’s brain volume diminished by about 4% during pregnancy, then returned to normal after delivery. Interestingly, this apparent brain shrinkage is not the deficit that it might appear to be. It does not seem to be the result of brain cell loss but rather changes in cellular metabolism. Dr. Louann Brizendine, in her book The Female Brain states that the shrinkage is a sign of brain circuits that are being restructured in preparation for their being changed from “one-lane highways” into “superhighways.” Think of it as restructuring for greater efficiency. A number of animal studies examining the effects of pregnancy on the female mammalian brain followed with remarkable results. Research published in Scientific American showed mother rats to be better, more efficient learners who are less fearful and are therefore better providers for their young compared to non-mother females. Mother animal subjects were also more resistant to stress and showed enhanced memory and cognition. The researchers theorized that the pregnancy brain undergoes revolutionary changes, at first appearing to be a disorganized construction zone, which may account for mommy brain symptoms. However, once the infant is born and the neuronal changes start to organize and take hold, the result is a better brain. The transformed mother brain is more efficient and focused, having evolved from a self-centered organism to an other-focused caregiver. What’s more, a 2011 animal study conducted by the same lead researcher suggests that better cognitive skills and protection against neurodegenerative disease may last well into later life.

GRAY MATTER PRUNING

Impressed with the research findings on pregnancy and enhanced brain function in animals, scientists set out to learn more about the transformative brain changes in human subjects. A 2017 breakthrough human study found that new mothers experienced gray matter reductions that lasted for at least two years after birth – and this apparent loss came with important benefits. The gray matter shrunk around the brain regions involved in social cognition, and mostly in the network dedicated to the theory of mind. This is the region that helps us think about what is going on in someone else’s mind. When the new mothers looked at photos of their infants, it was these areas that had the strongest response. Researchers observed that where there was the greatest mother-infant bonding, there was also the greatest consolidation of gray matter. Scientists call the phenomenon of gray matter shrinkage “gray matter pruning.” A similar process happens in early childhood and adolescence. The gray matter has myriad interconnections among neurons, and during pruning, the most important connections are strengthened while the others are left to perish. Rather than indicating a loss of function, pruning means that a brain region has become more specialized. This specialization is what will help new mothers adapt to motherhood and respond to the needs of their baby.

FUTURE IMPLICATIONS

The research on brain plasticity during pregnancy and early motherhood is ongoing. In a newer study published in the Archives of Women’s Mental Health, brain plasticity is recognized in areas that implicate caregiving, namely regions involved in reward/motivation, salience/threat detection, emotional regulation, and social cognition (such as the ability to understand and respond to the mental state of the baby).  Yet, this new study explores how these changes also make certain women vulnerable to the development of mental disorders such as postpartum depression. While the research is not conclusive at this point, it hopefully can lead to the prevention of these disorders, which can threaten both the mother and child.

SUPER-MOMMY BRAIN

If you or someone in your life becomes pregnant, remind yourself or that person that the forgetful, foggy brain of pregnancy is actually a sign of a stronger, more able supermom brain in the making. Perinatal mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.