Center News

Understanding the Overlap Between Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Anxiety

Autistic traits vary from person to person, impacting how individuals are identified as being autistic and when they receive their diagnosis, and they can also influence how individuals respond to different interventions. One factor contributing to this variability is the coexistence of autism with other conditions like anxiety and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Estimates suggest that 40-60% of autistic children also have anxiety and/or ADHD.

Ongoing NIH study Leveraged to Understand the Impact of the COVID-19 Pademic on Autistic Youth

Traditionally, clinicians make a diagnosis of autism using scientifically validated behavioral assessment tools that rely on observing child behaviors and parent report. Autism manifests itself in a wide range (or “spectrum”) of characteristics, and there is no “lab test” to easily make a diagnosis. Parents’ concerns are shared using questionnaires, which research has shown favor highly educated people who speak English as a first language.

Partnering with Carolina Theatre for a Sensory-Friendly Film Series

We have been delighted to partner with Durham's historic Carolina Theatre to offer a Sensory Friendly Film Series.  The series runs through July 2024 and each monthly matinee is free. Moviegoers enjoy a welcoming and supportive environment with resources in place to provide a comfortable experience.   

Our team worked closely with staff from the theater to provide information and resources to support individuals with autism and participated on a community advisory board to select the films.