neurodivergence in adults

Question 2

What is autism

Answer 2

A neurodevelopmental disorder which is a lifelong condition

Question 4

What is the diagnostic criteria for autism

Answer 4

• Difficulties in social communication and interaction
• Difficulties in routines, repetitive behaviours
• Must be present in childhood
• Impaired functioning

Question 5

What is the diagnostic criteria for ADHD

Answer 5

A. 5 or more symptoms of inattention of hyperactivity-impulsivity
B. Several symptoms by age 12
C. several symptoms present in 2 or more settings
D. symptoms reduce quality of social and educational functioning
E. Symptoms are not better explained by another condition

Question 6

What are the diagnostic overlaps in ADHD with anxiety

Answer 6

Anxiety - difficulty concentrating, feeling on edge and uneasy - racing thoughts

Question 7

What are the diagnostic overlaps in ADHD with depression

Answer 7

Poor task initiation and completion - negative thoughts about self with fluctuating energy levels

Question 8

What are the diagnostic overlaps in ADHD with personality disorders

Answer 8

Mood fluctuations
Difficulty self-regulating
Difficulty with relationships
Impulsivity
avoidance of tasks which they do not like or trigger their symptoms

Question 9

What are the diagnostic overlaps in ADHD with PTSD

Answer 9

• Feeling on edge
• Avoidance
• racing thougts
• Difficulty self regulating

Question 10

What is the first line intervention for ADHD

Answer 10

Enviromental and behavioural modification

Question 11

How do stimulants work and what are 2 examples

Answer 11

Stimulants are dopamine reuptake antagonists – causes more dopamine to be in the prefrontal cortex to improve executive function

Methylphenidate
Lisdexamphetamine

Question 12

What are the features of pathological demand avoidance

Answer 12

• The need for autonomy and control
• Appears sociable
• Resists ordinary demands of life

Question 13

How do non-stimulants work and give 2 examples

Answer 13

Non stimulants are dopamine/nor-epinephrine reuptake antagonists – when norepinephrine is increased, it increases the dopamine

Atomoxetine
Guanfacine

Question 14

What are the features of rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD)

Answer 14

• Intense emotional sensitivity to percieved criticism or rejection
• Rejection triggers huge feelings of depression or anxiety
• Difficulty starting tasks
• People pleasers