Full Stack Psychology

Hi Everyone! Just wanted to share some brief insights from my latest blog entry. In this article, I go into what Executive Functioning actually is and how to go about improving it so that it is serving instead of hampering you. Full article link is below. Key Takeaways – -Executive functioning is your brain's command center. -EF plays a crucial role in academic success, career advancement, healthy relationships, and overall well-being. -Signs of executive dysfunction can manifest differently across age groups and life areas. -With the right strategies and consistent practice, executive functioning skills can be improved. https://lnkd.in/e3BaPa7B

Hi friends! I wanted to post a little bit more info about FSP's upcoming ADHD Skills Group. Thank you for indulging me! And as always, feel free to reach out with questions!

The group is here! Get more info and save your spot on this page: https://lnkd.in/eB_Be8wz #adhd?#grouptherapy?#neuropsychologist?#psychologist?#executivefunctioning

The Mysterious Mom Brain! ?? Did you know that pregnancy can dramatically reshape a mother's brain? Recent research has revealed the most detailed picture yet of the brain changes that occur during pregnancy and early infancy. The study was led by a team of neuroscientists. They actually scanned one woman’s brain 26 times over three years—before, during, and after her pregnancy. Here are the key findings: Cortex Changes - Key areas in the cortex (the outer layer of the brain) shrank and thinned. These changes remained long-term (e.g., even two years post-pregnancy). Improved Connections - The integrity of the connections between brain regions strengthened during the first and second trimesters and then returned to baseline after birth. Increased Maternal Attachment - These brain changes may be linked to increased levels of maternal attachment. In other words, perhaps the brain is adapting for the challenges of motherhood. What Does This Mean for "Mom Brain?" Contrary to the popular notion of '"mom brain" causing cognitive fuzziness, these changes might actually be refining the brain for parenting. Think about it this way - similar to how Michelangelo sculpted "David" by chipping away at marble, the brain undergoes a pruning process that could reveal underlying cognitive strengths. The Plasticity of the Brain: This research highlights the brain’s incredible plasticity—its ability to change and adapt. Even in adulthood, the brain remains responsive to significant life events like pregnancy. Looking Ahead: An expanded project is already happening. The researchers want to work with more expectant moms. The aim is to test how universal these changes are and to continue figuring out how brain structure influences behavior and thinking. The hope is that such studies could ultimately give us more insight about postpartum depression as well as how pregnancy affects brain aging. Have you or someone you know experienced these changes? Share your thoughts below! ?? #MaternalBrain #Neuroscience #PregnancyResearch #BrainPlasticity #MentalHealth #mombrain Source: Washington Post - https://lnkd.in/gQPB4aiP

The Future of Alzheimer's Research Did you know that recent advancements in Alzheimer's research are paving the way for early detection and innovative treatments? Here's the latest: -Researchers have gained more knowledge about the roles of beta amyloid and tau in Alzheimer's pathology. -New hypotheses are exploring how genes and inflammation contribute to the disease. -Advances in imaging beta-amyloid and tau proteins in living patients allow for earlier diagnosis. -Development of blood tests for Alzheimer’s is underway -Over 25 additional genes linked to Alzheimer's have been discovered Promising Treatments -- -Lecanemab (Leqembi) and Donanemab (Kisunla) were recently approved by the FDA. These medications aim to get rid of amyloid plaques. They have shown the potential to slow cognitive decline in early-stage patients. -Research is ongoing into various drug classes that may provide more effective treatment options with fewer side effects. -Researchers are also looking into non-drug interventions designed to sustain cognitive function and improve the quality of life for patients. Clinical Trials -- How to participate -Talk to your PCP or a neurologist about potential clinical trial opportunities. -Websites like clinicaltrials.gov provide comprehensive listings of ongoing trials. -Many universities and hospitals have dedicated teams that can provide information about current trials and how to enroll. -Join organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association to receive updates on research advancements and trial opportunities. What excites you most about these advancements in Alzheimer's research? Let's discuss in the comments! ?? #AlzheimersResearch #Neuropsychology #MentalHealth #ClinicalTrials #InnovationInHealthcare #endalz

?? Alzeimer's Risk Factors & Prevention Strategies Key Insights - -The risk increases significantly with age, especially after 65. -Certain genes, like APOE-e4, are linked to a higher risk. -Factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking can increase susceptibility. -High blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease are associated with a higher risk. -Past head injuries can also be a contributing factor. Can AD be prevented or delayed? While there's no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimer's, research suggests that certain lifestyle changes can help delay the onset and slow the progression. We're talking about: Regular Exercise:?Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. Healthy Diet:?Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Mental Stimulation:?Engage in activities that challenge your mind, like puzzles, reading, or learning new skills. Social Engagement:?Maintain strong social connections to reduce stress and boost cognitive function. Quality Sleep:?Prioritize a good night's sleep to support overall brain health. What steps are you taking to promote brain health? Share your tips below! #AlzheimersAwareness #BrainHealth #PreventiveCare #MentalWellness #HealthyLifestyle

September is Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. Let's talk about that. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills. It's the most common cause of dementia, affecting millions of people worldwide. Symptoms and Stages of Alzheimer's: Early Stage - -Mild memory loss -Difficulty remembering recent events -Trouble with complex tasks such as managing finances Middle Stage - -Worsening memory loss and confusion -Problems with speech and understanding language -Changes in mood and behavior -Difficulty performing daily tasks Late Stage - -Severe memory loss -Difficulty communicating -Loss of physical abilities -Requires full-time care How is Alzheimer's Different from Normal Aging? While some memory lapses are normal as we age, Alzheimer's is much more severe. Here is a key differences Normal aging involves occasional forgetfulness like misplacing keys or forgetting a name. Alzheimer's Disease involves progressive memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with daily tasks. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms that seem beyond typical aging, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis can lead to better management and quality of life. FSP supports raising awareness and supporting those affected by Alzheimer's. Share your experiences or questions in the comments below. #AlzheimersDisease #MentalHealth #AgingGracefully #Neuropsychology #HealthAwareness #EndAlz ??

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about suicide prevention and mental health support. Here are a few ways you can get involved: 1. Learn the warning signs of suicide?and how to support someone who may be struggling. Recognizing the signs and reaching out can make a big difference. 2. Share the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number?on your social media profiles. 988 provides free, confidential support 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis. 3. Use the hashtags #suicidepreventionmonth, #SPM24, #BeThe1To?to connect with others promoting suicide prevention and spread the message of hope. 4. Post graphics, messages, or videos?to educate your network about suicide prevention and share resources. 5. Wear purple and turquoise (the colors of suicide prevention awareness) or use the purple and turquoise ribbon as your profile picture to show your support These graphics are from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). They can be downloaded and shared. #NAMI #mentalhealth

Have you ever wondered about the similarities and differences between Autism Spectrum Disorder and Asperger's Syndrome??? If so, you're in the right place. Similarities: - Social Challenges - Both involve difficulties with social interaction and communication. - Repetitive Behaviors - Both include restricted and repetitive behaviors or interests. - Early Diagnosis - Both are usually diagnosed in childhood. - Impact on Functioning - Both can significantly affect daily functioning and relationships. Differences: - Language Development - ASD may involve significant language delays or lack of language development. This is not the case in Asperger's. ?- Cognitive Abilities - People with ASD can have anything from an intellectual disability to above average intelligence. Asperger's usually involves average to above average intellect. - Severity of Symptoms - ASD symptoms can range from mild to severe. Asperger's generally involves milder symptoms. - Age of Diagnosis - ASD is often diagnosed in early childhood while Asperger's is usually diagnosed later on (sometimes not until adolescence or adulthood). - Self-Care Skills - ASD may involve significant challenges with self-care and adaptive skills. People with Asperger's are generally less impaired in this regard. Important Note: Since 2013, Asperger's syndrome is no longer a separate diagnosis. Instead, individuals who would have previously received an Asperger's diagnosis are now considered to have ASD. The term "Asperger's" is still sometimes used informally to describe individuals on the autism spectrum who have average or above-average intelligence and no language delays, but it's no longer an official diagnostic category. #AutismAwareness #MentalHealth #Neuropsychology #ASD #AspergersSyndrome

What’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to Autism Spectrum Disorder? Myth: People with ASD don't want friends. Truth:?Many people with ASD desire friendships but may struggle with social skills. Support can help them learn to interact and maintain relationships. Myth: ASD is caused by vaccines. Truth:?No. Just no. Extensive scientific studies have shown no link between vaccines and ASD. ASD is largely genetic with environmental factors possibly playing a role during early development. Myth: People with ASD can't feel empathy. Truth:?Many people with ASD feel deeply for others but might express it differently. Difficulty reading others’ emotions is often mistaken for a lack of empathy. Myth: ASD can be cured. Truth:?ASD is a lifelong condition. It's not something that needs to be "cured." With the right resources, people with ASD can learn skills to work through personal challenges and live fulfilling lives. Myth: All people with ASD have special talents or abilities. Truth:?While some people with ASD have exceptional skills in certain areas, this isn't true for everyone. Myth: ASD only affects children. Truth:?ASD impacts people throughout their lives. The way that ASD manifests in adulthood might look different than it did in childhood. Myth: People with ASD can't understand emotions. Truth:?Many people with ASD understand and experience a full range of emotions. The difficulty tends to involve expressing their own emotions or reading others' emotional cues. Myth: Bad parenting causes ASD. Truth:?This is another blatant falsehood. ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition with genetic factors. You can’t cause ASD by parenting a child in a certain way. Myth: Everyone with ASD is the same. Truth:?Not even close. The reason why it’s called Autism Spectrum Disorder is because each person with ASD has their own strengths, challenges, and personality. Have you heard any myths that didn't make this list? Tell me about them!