Orchid's Night Gallery
[Our gallery consists of Several items that slightly change weekly
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Affordable Housing Heroes
Permanent Supportive Housing |
Next 9 News -- June 26, 2024
Denver Shares Progress in Moving Homeless out of Motels |
Val's Take: Denver got some more Housing Vouchers and there seems to be an appreciation of Case Management that I hadn't heard before from the Mayor's Office. I think we on many levels are getting a more realistic view of the Scope of the Problem and what is necessary to Solve it.
Val's Note: HUD's Continuum of Care Program --- The issue with HUD's program as well as State of Colorado efforts --- they are great as far as they go --- but we have a significant difficulty in meeting the need and bringing Housing and Services to Scale.
Additionally, the video references people with certain convictions that will not be able to use the vouchers. I'm not necessarily saying those provisions should be changed --- but we must have housing or placements for the full, complicated range of people with disabilities needing housing and services.
Val's Note: HUD's Continuum of Care Program --- The issue with HUD's program as well as State of Colorado efforts --- they are great as far as they go --- but we have a significant difficulty in meeting the need and bringing Housing and Services to Scale.
Additionally, the video references people with certain convictions that will not be able to use the vouchers. I'm not necessarily saying those provisions should be changed --- but we must have housing or placements for the full, complicated range of people with disabilities needing housing and services.
University of California at San Francisco / Olivia Teter
Nipping Neurodevelopmental Disorders in the Bud
Nipping Neurodevelopmental Disorders in the Bud
Val's Take: There's a lot going on with Neuro-Developmental Disorders --- Idiosyncratic Pruning of Synapses is part of it. Most people with Neuro-Developmental and/or Psychiatric Disorders have "Hyper-Connected Brains."
Further, even if the "Pruning of Synapses" is addressed --- and that sounds pretty scary --- are we still left with the problem of Dysfunctional Mitochondria, Dysregulation of the Microbiome, the Immune System and the Endocrine System and Premature Aging from Maternal Immune Activation.
Further, even if the "Pruning of Synapses" is addressed --- and that sounds pretty scary --- are we still left with the problem of Dysfunctional Mitochondria, Dysregulation of the Microbiome, the Immune System and the Endocrine System and Premature Aging from Maternal Immune Activation.
vor Noah on Depression, ADHD & Ketamine Therapy
Val's Take: I'm posting this because I love Trevor Noah and also because Noah seems to perceive at the bottom of many mental health problems is a neuro-developmental disorder --- in his case (and many others) "ADHD."
That is a BIG INSIGHT and I think it is the logical corollary of a neuro-developmental / psychiatric continuum in which epigenetics is a big player.
On the other hand, we're missing a lot of people because they don't fit neatly into the ADHD or Autism camp --- until that Stage 4 Crisis in which we're now in MAJOR MENTAL ILLNESS.
When you start realizing that Maternal Immune Activation is idiosyncratically dysregulating multiple systems of the body including the mitochondria, the microbiome, the immune system, central nervous system and the endocrine system --- there are many places to look for biomarkers other than the brain itself.
That is a BIG INSIGHT and I think it is the logical corollary of a neuro-developmental / psychiatric continuum in which epigenetics is a big player.
On the other hand, we're missing a lot of people because they don't fit neatly into the ADHD or Autism camp --- until that Stage 4 Crisis in which we're now in MAJOR MENTAL ILLNESS.
When you start realizing that Maternal Immune Activation is idiosyncratically dysregulating multiple systems of the body including the mitochondria, the microbiome, the immune system, central nervous system and the endocrine system --- there are many places to look for biomarkers other than the brain itself.
Professor Kaj Blennow
Biomarkers in traumatic brain injury and acute neural damage
Biomarkers in traumatic brain injury and acute neural damage
Teacher of Philosophy
Kuhn: Crisis and the Emergence of Scientific Theories
Kuhn: Crisis and the Emergence of Scientific Theories
Val's Take: So to me there is the large Mental Health Crisis affecting approximately 1/4 of the population to greatly varying degrees, there is the Chronically Homeless Crisis, and the Cognitive Disability Crisis in Criminal Justice.
All of these CRISES are in one way or another being addressed by the Mental Health Profession.
It's becoming more and more apparent that our paradigms are grossly insufficient to adequately address a complicated array of neuro-developmental and psychiatric disorders that may be related to one another as well as other disorders and diseases and those all may be related to Mitochondrial Dysfunction.
All of these CRISES are in one way or another being addressed by the Mental Health Profession.
It's becoming more and more apparent that our paradigms are grossly insufficient to adequately address a complicated array of neuro-developmental and psychiatric disorders that may be related to one another as well as other disorders and diseases and those all may be related to Mitochondrial Dysfunction.
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R.E.M.
Losing My Religion |
Lauren Daigle
Losing My Religion |
American Authors
Deep Water
Deep Water
Val's Take: I think the experience of "losing" or redefining one's religion is fairly common.
My own experience and observations have called into question the intellectual underpinnings of the Criminal Law. Ironically, I think some Medieval thinkers might be more intellectually honest than we are -- if they had the information we have.
My own experience and observations have called into question the intellectual underpinnings of the Criminal Law. Ironically, I think some Medieval thinkers might be more intellectually honest than we are -- if they had the information we have.
The Pretenders
Mystery Achievement
Mystery Achievement
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UCLA Health
Dr. Chris Palmer Is Mitochondria Dysfunction the Cause of Autism (2023) |
Brain Foundation
Dr. R. Naviaux Autism Metabolomics, Exposomics & Purinergic Stress Response (2020) |
Catieosaurus
ADHD Relationships: Communication
ADHD Relationships: Communication
Val's Take: Neuro-Divergent people often come with "special gifts," that is generally off-set by a difficulty in doing a number "routine" things that ---- neuro-typical people have no difficulty with.
So one's own difficulty is often labeled "UNREASONABLE." This is a great source of STRESS in both personal and work lives.
Beyond that, the difficulty can be taken quite "PERSONALLY" leading to hurt feelings --- and just because you are neuro-diverse doesn't mean you can't have unreasonable expectations for yourself or your partner.
There's often room for improvement, but it needs to be realistic.
So one's own difficulty is often labeled "UNREASONABLE." This is a great source of STRESS in both personal and work lives.
Beyond that, the difficulty can be taken quite "PERSONALLY" leading to hurt feelings --- and just because you are neuro-diverse doesn't mean you can't have unreasonable expectations for yourself or your partner.
There's often room for improvement, but it needs to be realistic.
Medical Centric
Mitochondrial Diseases: Everything You Need to Know
Mitochondrial Diseases: Everything You Need to Know
Val's Take: Our understandings are expanding to include a wide range of diseases and disorders that involve Mitochondrial Dysfunction.
This is important for neuro-developmental and psychiatric disorders which are often treated separately and not necessarily effectively.
This is important for neuro-developmental and psychiatric disorders which are often treated separately and not necessarily effectively.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital -- WBLifeSciences
Bioessays: Mitochondria in Complex Psychiatric Disorders (2017)
Bioessays: Mitochondria in Complex Psychiatric Disorders (2017)
Dr. Carolyn Harris (Australia)
Metabolic Health is Mental Health
(Learnings from Epilepsy)
Metabolic Health is Mental Health
(Learnings from Epilepsy)
Diary of a CEO
Dr. Chris Palmer on ADHD and Autism
Dr. Chris Palmer on ADHD and Autism
Val's Take: I do think the Metabolic Psychiatry folks understand that we are facing serious GENERATIONAL ISSUES.
Further, Dr. Palmer seems to recognize that struggling with your weight is often both an effect and a cause.
Diet is more than calories ---- Calorie Counters were a big thing in the 1970s and they didn't solve our health problems, even as people like my Dad lost weight on them. He ultimately died of Parkinson's and Lewy Body Dementia.
Concepts such as the Exposome and Inflammasome are important to tease out the many contributors.
Smoking increases the rate of ADHD by 3 times and can go to the third generation -- maybe more. Additionally, auto-immune disorders are a source of maternal immune activation.
Will dietary modification fix eating micro-plastics that seem ubiquitous? These are tough issues and we need to address them.
Further, Dr. Palmer seems to recognize that struggling with your weight is often both an effect and a cause.
Diet is more than calories ---- Calorie Counters were a big thing in the 1970s and they didn't solve our health problems, even as people like my Dad lost weight on them. He ultimately died of Parkinson's and Lewy Body Dementia.
Concepts such as the Exposome and Inflammasome are important to tease out the many contributors.
Smoking increases the rate of ADHD by 3 times and can go to the third generation -- maybe more. Additionally, auto-immune disorders are a source of maternal immune activation.
Will dietary modification fix eating micro-plastics that seem ubiquitous? These are tough issues and we need to address them.
Smarthistory
Jacob Lawrence
Ambulance Call (1948)
Jacob Lawrence
Ambulance Call (1948)
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TEDxMcGill -Viveca Lee-
Eating disorders: a mental illness, not a lifestyle choice |
Dr Rangan Chatterjee inteviewing Dr. Chris Palmer
"Mental Health Experts Were Wrong!" - Scary Link Between Lifestyle & Mental Illness |
Dr. Thomas Insel, Former Director of the National Institute of Mental Health
More Extraordinary Than Anything We Can Imagine
More Extraordinary Than Anything We Can Imagine
Val's Take: I am a big fan of Metabolic Psychiatry --- but one of the things I'm not a big fan of is couching this in the language of "LIFESTYLE CHOICES."
That is CODE for a lot of things in this society including:
If we are perfecting nutritional treatments ---- I'm all for it.
BUT doctors live in this society too -- they are rarely held accountable and are not really interested in holding themselves accountable (and I'm not interested in that either)--- I'm interested in getting better treatments and being HONEST about how fraught this is for:
That is CODE for a lot of things in this society including:
- Justification for Punishment
If we are perfecting nutritional treatments ---- I'm all for it.
BUT doctors live in this society too -- they are rarely held accountable and are not really interested in holding themselves accountable (and I'm not interested in that either)--- I'm interested in getting better treatments and being HONEST about how fraught this is for:
- individuals
- families,
- providers,
- researchers
- and the community
Metabolic Mind
Martin Picard, Ph.D
Columbia University
Mitochondrial Psychobiology Lab
Mitochondria in Physical & Mental Health
Martin Picard, Ph.D
Columbia University
Mitochondrial Psychobiology Lab
Mitochondria in Physical & Mental Health
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9 News
Denver sweeps homeless encampment; first time in months city not offering other housing options |
Raincityhousing.org
Choice: The First Step Indoors - Housing First, Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) |
Val's Take: Colorado does a fair amount of supportive housing and assertive community treatment --- but it is not brought to scale --- that's a problem and it's a legal problem.
The US Dept. of Justice has said that States are responsible for bringing existing models to scale. Delaware Findings Letter.
The US Dept. of Justice has said that States are responsible for bringing existing models to scale. Delaware Findings Letter.
Metabolic Mind
When Healing with Medical Keto Leads to Criticism-with Lauren from Living Well With Schizophrenia
When Healing with Medical Keto Leads to Criticism-with Lauren from Living Well With Schizophrenia
Val's Take: I have definitely been skeptical of "diet" cures for developmental issues.
Further, many of us have been given loads of diet advice that didn't work or have family members who lost the weight but became very unhealthy.
For people who struggled with their weight, "FAT" was a dirty word.
I think the Metabolic Mind folks as well as the folks at Harvard and Stanford have been able to connect this with the underlying biology and mitochondrial dysfunction not only in psychiatric disorders but other chronic disorders.
Further, many of those other chronic disorders have psychiatric symptoms.
Medical Keto is not a cure-all but it seems to be a big step up and a marked PARADIGM SHIFT.
Further, many of us have been given loads of diet advice that didn't work or have family members who lost the weight but became very unhealthy.
For people who struggled with their weight, "FAT" was a dirty word.
I think the Metabolic Mind folks as well as the folks at Harvard and Stanford have been able to connect this with the underlying biology and mitochondrial dysfunction not only in psychiatric disorders but other chronic disorders.
Further, many of those other chronic disorders have psychiatric symptoms.
Medical Keto is not a cure-all but it seems to be a big step up and a marked PARADIGM SHIFT.
5 News
Temple Grandin
Temple Grandin
Val's Take: I like so many others love Temple Grandin --- what I love about her is how honest she is and how she recognizes that we are all different kinds of thinkers.
By and large I don't think in pictures --- I think in concepts --- although I am much more of a visual thinker than I was when I started out.
Accepting people for who they are and being able to recognize their talents and what they can bring to the society is important on many levels.
It is also important for reducing chronic stress.
By and large I don't think in pictures --- I think in concepts --- although I am much more of a visual thinker than I was when I started out.
Accepting people for who they are and being able to recognize their talents and what they can bring to the society is important on many levels.
It is also important for reducing chronic stress.
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Lines 1-18 of the Canterbury Tales in Middle English
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Ted-Ed
Canterbury Tales |
Val's Take: "Whan that Aprille with his shoores soote" --- I had an English professor who was a Chaucer expert, British and did a magnificent job of reciting Chaucer in the Middle English.
Not only is it April --- but we are living in a time in which we could use our own version of " Canterbury Tales" to expose the hypocrisy of most of us.
Not only is it April --- but we are living in a time in which we could use our own version of " Canterbury Tales" to expose the hypocrisy of most of us.
Metabolic Mind
New Residential Program for Metabolic Psychiatry
New Residential Program for Metabolic Psychiatry
'Val's Take: Metabolic Mind, Harvard, Stanford, other academic institutions and some families are pushing Keto hard --- if you are paying attention they are everywhere.
There does seem to be a big jump in understanding mitochondria dysfunction and problems getting ATP in psychiatric disorders. THIS IS HUGE.
Should Residential Placements in Colorado consider Metabolic Psychiatry --- yes and there is ground work to lay --but we are in a frickin' Mental Health Crisis -- we need people to figure this out and move on it.
CAVEAT: Keto is not a cure-all, but it appears to be able to "help" a significant percentage of patients, although not all.
Mitochondrial DNA copy number is associated with psychosis severity and anti-psychotic treatment.
There does seem to be a big jump in understanding mitochondria dysfunction and problems getting ATP in psychiatric disorders. THIS IS HUGE.
Should Residential Placements in Colorado consider Metabolic Psychiatry --- yes and there is ground work to lay --but we are in a frickin' Mental Health Crisis -- we need people to figure this out and move on it.
CAVEAT: Keto is not a cure-all, but it appears to be able to "help" a significant percentage of patients, although not all.
Mitochondrial DNA copy number is associated with psychosis severity and anti-psychotic treatment.
- Mitochondrial pathology has been implicated in the pathogenesis of psychotic disorders. A few studies have proposed reduced leukocyte mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder type I, compared to healthy controls.
Antoine Giraud
Perinatal inflammation exposure and developmental outcomes after neonatal stroke
Perinatal inflammation exposure and developmental outcomes after neonatal stroke
Val's Note: Results of IQ Scores of children with perinatal inflammation exposure were actually higher than that of "normal" children.
I think this is getting to something fundamental in the complicated picture that people with neuro-developmental inflammation present and hinting at why many "gifted" individuals are getting a LATE DIAGNOSIS as adults.
I think this is getting to something fundamental in the complicated picture that people with neuro-developmental inflammation present and hinting at why many "gifted" individuals are getting a LATE DIAGNOSIS as adults.
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Original String Band/ Snatam Kaur
Long Time Sun
Long Time Sun
"Long Time Sun" originated with the Incredible String Band of the British underground of the mid-1960s.
Interestingly, "Long Time Sun" was adopted by the Sikh movement.
Interestingly, "Long Time Sun" was adopted by the Sikh movement.
Metabolic Mind
Metabolic Therapies for Psychiatry: The State of the Evidence
Metabolic Therapies for Psychiatry: The State of the Evidence
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National Institutes of Health
Epigenomics of Lupus |
AstraZeneca
Epigenomics and Cancer |
All things epigenomics podcast
Using Epigenomics to predict Mental Illnesses
Using Epigenomics to predict Mental Illnesses
9 News Next
Denver doesn't count dying as a 'negative outcome' of homelessness initiative
Denver doesn't count dying as a 'negative outcome' of homelessness initiative
Val's Take: I think the Johnston Administration has been both so inspiring and naive when it comes to homelessness. I don't know that I got to the inspiring part, but I definitely have been naive about the challenge and worked for people who were very naive about the challenges for some people with serious psychiatric issues and living in the community.
If you're not just labeling everyone with problematic issues with an "Anti-Social Personality Disorder' --- and willing to tackle some tough medical issues and recognize that the Mental Health Profession is "in process" of fundamental paradigm shifts --- we might actually be able to do more to address homelessness.
If we think this is just about "getting people back on their feet" with little appreciation of the complicated developmental, physical and mental issues they are facing ---- we are going to fail.
If you're not just labeling everyone with problematic issues with an "Anti-Social Personality Disorder' --- and willing to tackle some tough medical issues and recognize that the Mental Health Profession is "in process" of fundamental paradigm shifts --- we might actually be able to do more to address homelessness.
If we think this is just about "getting people back on their feet" with little appreciation of the complicated developmental, physical and mental issues they are facing ---- we are going to fail.
Open Box Science
Lindsey Hays Ph.D
John Hopkins University
Prenatal immune stress blunts microglia reactivity, impairing neurocircuitry
Lindsey Hays Ph.D
John Hopkins University
Prenatal immune stress blunts microglia reactivity, impairing neurocircuitry
John Kruse, MD, Ph.D
Is ADHD a Mitochondrial Disease?
Is ADHD a Mitochondrial Disease?
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Stevie Wonder/Playing for Change
Higher Ground
Higher Ground
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UC San Diego
Biomarkers for Suicidal Thoughts |
Ted-Ed
Igor Stravinsky & Vaslav Nijinsky push the envelope with "The Rite of Spring"
Igor Stravinsky & Vaslav Nijinsky push the envelope with "The Rite of Spring"
ADDITUDE Magazine
ADHD Gene Research: Epigenetics Explained by David Anderson, Ph.D.
ADHD Gene Research: Epigenetics Explained by David Anderson, Ph.D.
Val's Take: I think for those who have been following the research --- it seems unlikely that current DSM categories will ultimately survive ----BUT we're on a kind of multi-generational time frame in revising our understandings.
Unfortunately, there are people with "ADHD" in the Juvenile and Adult Criminal Justice Systems --NOW. "ADHD" is heavily represented in Criminal Justice --- and often gets an additional diagnosis of "Conduct Disorder" or "Anti-Social Personality Disorder."
There is an enormous amount of UNCONSCIOUS BIAS in all of this, and if we adopt a PUBLIC HEALTH APPROACH to Criminal Justice some of the worst aspects of this could potentially be remedied.
Unfortunately, there are people with "ADHD" in the Juvenile and Adult Criminal Justice Systems --NOW. "ADHD" is heavily represented in Criminal Justice --- and often gets an additional diagnosis of "Conduct Disorder" or "Anti-Social Personality Disorder."
There is an enormous amount of UNCONSCIOUS BIAS in all of this, and if we adopt a PUBLIC HEALTH APPROACH to Criminal Justice some of the worst aspects of this could potentially be remedied.
Neuroscience News
The Double-Edged Sword of Genius: The Hidden Vulnerabilities of High IQ
The Double-Edged Sword of Genius: The Hidden Vulnerabilities of High IQ
Val's Take: High IQ has been seen and promoted as such an UNQUALIFIED GOOD --- BUT it's not.
It's a very complicated MIXED BAG and it is NOT just involving the Brain.
Gifted People are Neuro-Diverse and to me that generally means MATERNAL IMMUNE ACTIVATION during pregnancy.
It's a very complicated MIXED BAG and it is NOT just involving the Brain.
Gifted People are Neuro-Diverse and to me that generally means MATERNAL IMMUNE ACTIVATION during pregnancy.
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Stevie Wonder
Superstition |
Rick Beato
What Makes This Song Great |
Val's Take: "Superstition --- Writings on the Wall. . . Believe in things you don't understand."
I'm talkin' about the Mental Health Profession and "Anti-Social Personality Disorder" ---
I am always for safety and I'm not for sacrificing that --- but paradigms are changing and the algebraic implications of an outdated current practice are not pretty.
I'm talkin' about the Mental Health Profession and "Anti-Social Personality Disorder" ---
- the current generation of mental health professionals may not have the intellectual fire power or courage to sufficiently address an inadequate diagnostic manual and research that is raising serious reasonable doubt about our current understandings and treatments ---
- but I think that may be changing as we're starting year 11 after the National Institute of Mental Health first claimed the DSM 5 lacked validity, and new paradigms do seem to be emerging.
I am always for safety and I'm not for sacrificing that --- but paradigms are changing and the algebraic implications of an outdated current practice are not pretty.
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Metabolic Mind
Mitochondria & Inflammation in Serious Mental Illness - Ana Andreazza, PhD |
Mitochondria and Energy Deficit in Mood Disorders - Michael Berk, PhD
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Val's Take: Understanding the ENERGY ISSUES of NEURO-DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS and PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS is HUGE.
There are ENERGY DEFICITS that are making it hard for people to function.
This has so many implications for TREATMENTS --- Yes, and also ACCOMMODATIONS and WORK-AROUNDS.
BETTER UNDERSTANDINGS also hold the possibility of GREATLY IMPROVING INTER-PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS across the board and REDUCING CHRONIC STRESS LEVELS.
A lot of the CONFLICTS that people on the NEURO-DEVELOPMENTAL/PSYCHIATRIC CONTINUUM face on a DAILY BASIS involve not understanding their ENERGY ISSUES, PEOPLE AROUND THEM NOT UNDERSTANDING THEIR ENERGY ISSUES, and even WELL-MEANING MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS not understanding these issues.
We seem to be moving in the direction of better UNDERSTANDINGS and TREATMENTS.
There are ENERGY DEFICITS that are making it hard for people to function.
This has so many implications for TREATMENTS --- Yes, and also ACCOMMODATIONS and WORK-AROUNDS.
BETTER UNDERSTANDINGS also hold the possibility of GREATLY IMPROVING INTER-PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS across the board and REDUCING CHRONIC STRESS LEVELS.
A lot of the CONFLICTS that people on the NEURO-DEVELOPMENTAL/PSYCHIATRIC CONTINUUM face on a DAILY BASIS involve not understanding their ENERGY ISSUES, PEOPLE AROUND THEM NOT UNDERSTANDING THEIR ENERGY ISSUES, and even WELL-MEANING MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS not understanding these issues.
We seem to be moving in the direction of better UNDERSTANDINGS and TREATMENTS.
Val's Take: Twice Exceptionality, ADHD, Autism and Dyslexia are not necessarily identical; although there can be a fair amount of BLURRING.
But EMOTIONAL REGULATION issues tend to run across the Neuro-Diversity Spectrum --- which when all things are considered is likely MORE THAN 20% of the Population.
I think there are probably a lot of reasons for Emotional Dysregulation, but I think "Hyper-Connected Brains" lead to overwhelming influxes of information and can exhaust our ENERGY RESERVES pretty quickly.
Further, there is still a lot of "MIGHT MAKES RIGHT" in the World.
In the education and employment areas, there can be teachers, administrators, supervisors who are "EMOTIONALLY DYSREGULATED" --- this isn't just an issue of kids struggling in school or for the underling disgruntled employee.
Hierarchy really keeps us from openly discussing these issues that are far from uncommon.
My point is not to get us to SCAPEGOAT teachers, administrators or supervisors --- but to get to a MORE HONEST CONVERSATION that potentially could help a lot people on various sides of the issues so we can feel more UNDERSTOOD and IMPROVE OUR SYSTEMS.
But EMOTIONAL REGULATION issues tend to run across the Neuro-Diversity Spectrum --- which when all things are considered is likely MORE THAN 20% of the Population.
I think there are probably a lot of reasons for Emotional Dysregulation, but I think "Hyper-Connected Brains" lead to overwhelming influxes of information and can exhaust our ENERGY RESERVES pretty quickly.
Further, there is still a lot of "MIGHT MAKES RIGHT" in the World.
In the education and employment areas, there can be teachers, administrators, supervisors who are "EMOTIONALLY DYSREGULATED" --- this isn't just an issue of kids struggling in school or for the underling disgruntled employee.
Hierarchy really keeps us from openly discussing these issues that are far from uncommon.
My point is not to get us to SCAPEGOAT teachers, administrators or supervisors --- but to get to a MORE HONEST CONVERSATION that potentially could help a lot people on various sides of the issues so we can feel more UNDERSTOOD and IMPROVE OUR SYSTEMS.
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Julie Skolnick, M.A., J.D.
Emotional Regulation & the Twice Exceptional Profile Val's Take: I don't know of any "STRAIGHT GIFTED" people who don't have problems with EMOTIONAL REGULATION --- maybe they exist, but I don't know them.
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ADDITUDE Magazine
ADHD & Emotional Dysregulation |
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Autism from the Inside
Asperger's, Energy and Emotional Dysregulation |
Dyslexia Bytes
Dyslexia & Emotions |
Al Jazeera
School to Prison Pipeline
School to Prison Pipeline
But as I go back and I "recollect" . . .
This video is 7 years old and I think one of the things we're learning is that breaking the School to Prison Pipeline is more complicated than just saying "MAKE IT SO."
It requires WRAP-AROUND services and options at the higher end of the Continuum of Care that even Middle Class families are finding hard to access.
- How many teenage boys do you know that use the word "recollect"?
- Our narrator tells us that he spent his teenage years in Juvenile Hall.
- One of the things that happens during criminal hearings or trials is that the Officer may be asked if the police report would refresh his recollection.
- I've known a 50-something homeless Jailhouse Lawyer missing several teeth with serious mental illness--- and wondered, "Where did you get that vocabulary and those writing skills?"
- There is often a lot going on intellectually even as TRAUMA and ILL Health are part of the mix.
This video is 7 years old and I think one of the things we're learning is that breaking the School to Prison Pipeline is more complicated than just saying "MAKE IT SO."
It requires WRAP-AROUND services and options at the higher end of the Continuum of Care that even Middle Class families are finding hard to access.
Sara Bareilles
Brave
Brave
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A cappella cover of the Beatles' Blackbird
Enrico Imbalzano (Italy), Pete Avendano (Philippines): Julien Neel (France)
& the Story Behind the Song with Paul McCartney
Enrico Imbalzano (Italy), Pete Avendano (Philippines): Julien Neel (France)
& the Story Behind the Song with Paul McCartney
Val's Note: Many LGBTQ+ people are part of the Neuro-Diverse Community as are their haters.
I grew up in Oklahoma, I went to school in Oklahoma. As a High School Newspaper Editor, I wrote about the challenges of a longtime school friend who was a male baton twirler.
We are wired to make split-second In-Group and Out-Group determinations --- in many cases it may help us, but in many other cases --- it is killing us.
I grew up in Oklahoma, I went to school in Oklahoma. As a High School Newspaper Editor, I wrote about the challenges of a longtime school friend who was a male baton twirler.
We are wired to make split-second In-Group and Out-Group determinations --- in many cases it may help us, but in many other cases --- it is killing us.
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Here's Why With Kevin Ortega-Rojas
Oklahoma Teenager Nex Benedict ATTACKED In School, No One Helped |
The Brain with David Eagleman (PBS)
Massacre at Srebrencia |
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Is there a link between gender diversity and neurodiversity?
- Increasingly, clinicians and researchers are seeing a correlation between gender diversity and neurodiversity among adolescents and young adults.
www.uservoice.org › wp-content › uploads“NEURO…WHAT?” - User Voice
If there was recognition and support for these conditions then the link between neurodiversity and crime could be broken. But these people are too often ignored - until we punish them for offending.
If there was recognition and support for these conditions then the link between neurodiversity and crime could be broken. But these people are too often ignored - until we punish them for offending.
www.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk › cjji › wp-content
Neurodiversity in the criminal justice system: a review of ...
Neurodiversity in the criminal justice system: a review of ...
- Neurodiversity in the criminal justice system: A review of evidence. 4. Chief Inspectors’ introduction. We were delighted that HM Inspectorate of Prisons and HM Inspectorate of Probation were...
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MICAL -- The Film
Dyslexia & Mental Health 4 Things that Lead to a Dyslexic Kid's Breaking Point DyslexiaConnect
Dyslexia & Behavior Issues |
DyslexiaConnect
Dyslexia & Fatigue Vox
Why Dyslexia is Misunderstood |
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Metabolic Mind
Metabolic Psychiatry: Metabolism & Mental Health |
University of California Television (UCTV)
Prenatal Inflammation Shapes Postnatal Immune Function by Reprogramming Fetal Hematopoiesis |
Val's Take: Psychiatric Disorders are more and more viewed as part of a Neuro-Developmental Continuum and "SYSTEMIC DISORDERS" --- that include the Brain, but also the Immune System, the Metabolism, the Microbiome, the Endocrine System, etc.
Things like good eating, exercise and sleep are still important and actually probably more important --- but when we don't appreciate the "DEVELOPMENTAL" ASPECTS of Neuro-Developmental SYSTEMIC DISORDERS --- we tend to blame the patient --- when what is really going on is that we're IN THE PROCESS OF FIGURING THIS OUT --- and it's a lot more complicated than anybody thought --- we still don't have the brain totally figured out and this involves more than the brain.
If we're trying to address this with "MOTIVATIONAL INTERVIEWING" or with SUBJECTIVE DIAGNOSTIC "SYMPTOM CLUSTERS" --- no wonder we're not resolving our mental health crisis.
Things like good eating, exercise and sleep are still important and actually probably more important --- but when we don't appreciate the "DEVELOPMENTAL" ASPECTS of Neuro-Developmental SYSTEMIC DISORDERS --- we tend to blame the patient --- when what is really going on is that we're IN THE PROCESS OF FIGURING THIS OUT --- and it's a lot more complicated than anybody thought --- we still don't have the brain totally figured out and this involves more than the brain.
If we're trying to address this with "MOTIVATIONAL INTERVIEWING" or with SUBJECTIVE DIAGNOSTIC "SYMPTOM CLUSTERS" --- no wonder we're not resolving our mental health crisis.
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Former Director of the National Institute of Mental Health
More Extraordinary Than Anything We Can Image (2014) I think people including me thought we knew a lot more about the "Brain" than we do.
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Sci Show
The 4 Greatest Mysteries in Physics (2022) When we talk about whether or not there is something beyond the natural world or "supernatural" --- that really presupposes that we've got the "natural world" nailed down --- we know a lot --- but there is a lot we don't know --- and I would submit there's a lot we don't know --- we don't know.
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So there are some big debates that hang over our human concerns:
What I would want to propose is:
- Free Will vs. Determinism
- Biology vs. Environment
- Mind/Body Dualism versus an Integrated Mind & Body
- Natural Explanations for Experience and Supernatural Explanations for Experience
- "Fear" as the driving force in Biological Systems
What I would want to propose is:
- We don't know it all
- With regard to Free Will vs. Determinism
- Biology vs. Environment
- I think the National Institutes of Health understand this is "DYNAMIC" in which Environment impacts Biology and Biology impacts Environment
- When we talk about "soft concerns" about Environment they're not really that soft and some HARD BIOMARKERS are being discovered.
- Mind/Body Dualism versus an Integrated Mind & Body --- I think Cartesian Mind Body Dualism has largely been rejected to be replaced with an even more complicated "ECOSYSTEM" including the Microbiome.
- In the video below on Death, one of the doctors maintains there are 2 possibilities with regard to consciousness -- Monism and Dualism with dualism being sort of more supernatural.
- I think that is likely to be not quite right. Further, because the more we know --- the more we realize we don't know --- there are always things outside our sensory perception --- and we're constantly improving our tools to better understand that.
- One of the Big Things in Biology is re-introducing "FEAR" into Biological Systems --- to re-create what you had before.
- I would just say with regard to Human Beings --- when you introduce FEAR --- you get pretty horrific results ---- Israel/Gaza, Ukraine/Russia and a long, long ugly and traumatizing list of human atrocities.
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Paul Micallef --- Autism from the Inside
Do You Need A Second Brain? |
Clifton StrengthsFinder
Input |
Val's Take: I think a lot of Neuro-Diverse people are taking in a lot of information (sometimes traditionally academic, but often not) ---- and at some point find as Leonardo da Vinci did ---- HEY, ALL OF THIS IS CONNECTED --- it's NOT just random bits of irrelevant information.
On the other hand, I have limited bandwidth and so does everybody else.
So many of my insights are IDIOSYNCRATIC to my experience and I've gone to some length to get that out and there is a lot connected to that.
With regard to the LAW & HEALTH PRACTICE:
The CONSEQUENCES of FAILING TO HAVE BIOMARKERS for Neuro-Developental and Psychiatric Disorders, and having a SCIENTIFICALLY INVALID DSM are potentially and all too often in fact CATASTROPHIC.
WE NEED TO BE TALKING ABOUT THIS A WHOLE LOT MORE and at least trying to understand the policy implications.
I know I feel like I'm a VOICE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS --- but not only that it seems that the National Institute of Mental Health and Researchers around the World --- are saying "Hey Guys and Gals --- this isn't exactly what we thought."
THAT MATTERS.
On the other hand, I have limited bandwidth and so does everybody else.
So many of my insights are IDIOSYNCRATIC to my experience and I've gone to some length to get that out and there is a lot connected to that.
With regard to the LAW & HEALTH PRACTICE:
The CONSEQUENCES of FAILING TO HAVE BIOMARKERS for Neuro-Developental and Psychiatric Disorders, and having a SCIENTIFICALLY INVALID DSM are potentially and all too often in fact CATASTROPHIC.
WE NEED TO BE TALKING ABOUT THIS A WHOLE LOT MORE and at least trying to understand the policy implications.
I know I feel like I'm a VOICE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS --- but not only that it seems that the National Institute of Mental Health and Researchers around the World --- are saying "Hey Guys and Gals --- this isn't exactly what we thought."
THAT MATTERS.
Medical Dialogues
Hidden Mental Health Symptoms in People with Long Term Autoimmune Diseases
Hidden Mental Health Symptoms in People with Long Term Autoimmune Diseases
Exposure to maternal immune activation is a risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders, psychosis, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic diseases, and human immune disorders.
Medical Express: Study finds 'startling' levels of hidden mental health symptoms among people living with long-term autoimmune diseases (July 2023)
Detroit Mass Choir
The Storm Is Passing Over
The Storm Is Passing Over
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Arije-Aike de Haas
Powerful Feelings of Dyslexics |
Autistic AF
Why Autistic Masking Hurts? |
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Embracing Intensity
Thrice Exceptional: Gifted, ADHD & Black |
The Hollywood Reporter
Will Ferrell on Navigating His Best Friend's Transition |
Val's Take: Neuro-divergent people tend to experience intense emotions --- but that can look very different and it's important to recognize that a lot of conflicts are not necessarily between neuro-divergent people and neuro-typicals.
A lot of those conflicts characterized by INTENSE EMOTIONS involve neuro-divergent people who are neuro-divergent in different ways or all too similar ways.
While any particular neuro-diversity may not be common, neuro-diversity in general is very common.
A lot of those conflicts characterized by INTENSE EMOTIONS involve neuro-divergent people who are neuro-divergent in different ways or all too similar ways.
While any particular neuro-diversity may not be common, neuro-diversity in general is very common.
Joy Oladokun
Somebody Like Me
Somebody Like Me
Charley Crockett
Killers of the Flower Moon
Killers of the Flower Moon
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Her Remarkable History
The Accident That Turned Henry VIII Into A Brain Damaged Tyrant |
60 Minutes
Neurosurgeon Pioneers Alzheimer's, Addiction Treatments using Ultra-Sound |
Martin Scorsese On "Silence"
MSNBC
Family of Martin Luther King, Jr. Announces Youth Service Initiative in Partnership with the NFL
Family of Martin Luther King, Jr. Announces Youth Service Initiative in Partnership with the NFL
BBC World Service
Selma Blair: MS Took My Career Down
Selma Blair: MS Took My Career Down
Val's Take: MS often does have psychiatric components. Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis --- State of the Art.
Maternal autoimmune disease is associated with increased risk of ADHD in offspring, adding evidence that adverse maternal immune function during pregnancy may alter fetal neurodevelopment. Children of affected mothers may benefit from additional follow-up and support for developmental issues.
- Additionally, Bipolar Disorder is sometimes referred to as MS Lite.
- Further, there is a High Lifetime Prevalence of Bipolar Disorder in MS.
- One of the biggest predictors of ADHD is having a Mom with an autoimmune disease
- www.psychiatrictimes.com › view › childhood-adhd-perinatal-autoimmune-disorders
Maternal autoimmune disease is associated with increased risk of ADHD in offspring, adding evidence that adverse maternal immune function during pregnancy may alter fetal neurodevelopment. Children of affected mothers may benefit from additional follow-up and support for developmental issues.
10,000 Maniacs with Natalie Merchant
Like the Weather
Like the Weather
Val's Note: This is a song from the late 80s --- that I just discovered in the last year or two.
It's an upbeat song about being sad.
I play a lot of music on this website because I think these music videos can be accessible outlets for INTENSE EMOTIONS and provide creative outlets for A LOT OF SENSORY INFORMATION.
When it comes to musicians or arts or even spiritual leaders ---- I think there is a certain PRINCIPLE OF LEAST EFFORT --- you're not doing this if you don't need to.
Making space and time for music and art and spiritual pursuits -- may often not be enough --- BUT they often help.
It's an upbeat song about being sad.
I play a lot of music on this website because I think these music videos can be accessible outlets for INTENSE EMOTIONS and provide creative outlets for A LOT OF SENSORY INFORMATION.
When it comes to musicians or arts or even spiritual leaders ---- I think there is a certain PRINCIPLE OF LEAST EFFORT --- you're not doing this if you don't need to.
Making space and time for music and art and spiritual pursuits -- may often not be enough --- BUT they often help.
American Authors
Deep Water
Deep Water
Colter Wall
Sleeping on the Blacktop
Sleeping on the Blacktop
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John Hopkins Rheumatology Dept.
Lessons from "Long Haul Lyme" and "Long Haul Covid" |
KHOU 11 --- Houston
Severe Mental Illness and Covid 19 |
Val's Take/Conjecture: So a few things ---
One of the things Dr. Aucott from John Hopkins talks about are symptoms of:
Especially with Neuro-Developmental Issues, Psychiatric Issues, Substance Issues and the Psychiatric Components of "Physical Health Issues" ---- I think one often sees a kind of AFFECTIVE PAIN that can seem OUT OF PROPORTION even if there is some FACTUAL BASIS for the concern.
Dr. Aucott cautions against not believing the patient --- this has been compounded in the Criminal Justice System by recognizing only a fairly narrow range of biological explanations for behavior --- and sometimes incentivizing lying.
Further, for those without obvious MOBILITY ISSUES --- the fatigue, vague cognitive issues and out of proportion emotions and actions (criminal or not) --- don't always seem reasonable to the society --- which pushes people to the FRINGES OF SOCIETY.
BIOMARKERS could help individuals, families and the society as a whole in better addressing the many ramifications of "PREMATURE BIOLOGICAL AGING."
- It's becoming more and more recognized that Psychiatric Disorders may involve "premature biological aging" that may "impair the immune system."
- I think this could be the result of a number of things including MATERNAL IMMUNE ACTIVATION
One of the things Dr. Aucott from John Hopkins talks about are symptoms of:
- Fatigue
- Cognitive Issues, and
- Pain
Especially with Neuro-Developmental Issues, Psychiatric Issues, Substance Issues and the Psychiatric Components of "Physical Health Issues" ---- I think one often sees a kind of AFFECTIVE PAIN that can seem OUT OF PROPORTION even if there is some FACTUAL BASIS for the concern.
- For example, Mathew Perry feeling like he was having a seizure when he didn't get the audience response he had hoped for.
- Further, the Criminal Law is really designed to address OUT OF PROPORTION ACTIONS as a result of OUT OF PROPORTION INTENT.
Dr. Aucott cautions against not believing the patient --- this has been compounded in the Criminal Justice System by recognizing only a fairly narrow range of biological explanations for behavior --- and sometimes incentivizing lying.
Further, for those without obvious MOBILITY ISSUES --- the fatigue, vague cognitive issues and out of proportion emotions and actions (criminal or not) --- don't always seem reasonable to the society --- which pushes people to the FRINGES OF SOCIETY.
BIOMARKERS could help individuals, families and the society as a whole in better addressing the many ramifications of "PREMATURE BIOLOGICAL AGING."
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PBS NewsHour
Chatty Benches in Britain |
FreeThink
Friendship Benches in Zimbabwe |
Dr. Ross Greene
Kids Do Well If They Can
Kids Do Well If They Can
Val's Take: Dr. Greene is probably unwittingly echoing famed attorney Clarence Darrow from over a hundred years ago --- "In one sense, we're all equally good and equally bad, we all do the best we can under the circumstances."
Going from someone will do well if they "WANNA" to someone will do well if they "CAN" --- is A LOT HARDER.
I think when Dr. Greene says --- IT'S A LOT HARDER --- he's talking about the TIME and ENERGY necessary to really analyze the situation and problem-solve.
In addition to this, I think Neuroscientist David Eagleman would say it is A LOT HARDER because we are HARD-WIRED to make SPLIT-SECOND DECISIONS and divide ourselves into IN GROUPS/OUT GROUPS and certainly when it comes to our own safety, the safety of our families and our communities.
THE LAW --- slows that down a bit ---- BUT when we're talking about long-standing, complicated and idiosyncratic human behaviors that billion dollar research institutions such as the National Institute of Mental Health have been working on for 75 years ---- and making enormous progress (as well as errors)--- but NOT DONE analyzing the situation ---
See more videos of Lives In the Balance & Dr. Ross Greene on YouTube
Going from someone will do well if they "WANNA" to someone will do well if they "CAN" --- is A LOT HARDER.
I think when Dr. Greene says --- IT'S A LOT HARDER --- he's talking about the TIME and ENERGY necessary to really analyze the situation and problem-solve.
In addition to this, I think Neuroscientist David Eagleman would say it is A LOT HARDER because we are HARD-WIRED to make SPLIT-SECOND DECISIONS and divide ourselves into IN GROUPS/OUT GROUPS and certainly when it comes to our own safety, the safety of our families and our communities.
THE LAW --- slows that down a bit ---- BUT when we're talking about long-standing, complicated and idiosyncratic human behaviors that billion dollar research institutions such as the National Institute of Mental Health have been working on for 75 years ---- and making enormous progress (as well as errors)--- but NOT DONE analyzing the situation ---
- We're called on to:
- Provide for that safety
- Bring folks into the problem-solving process
- And recognize this is the WORK OF GENERATIONS ----
See more videos of Lives In the Balance & Dr. Ross Greene on YouTube
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Osibisa and Wiyaala cover
Woyaya
Woyaya
Arije-Aike de Haas
Dyslexia & Mental Health --- 3 Studies You Should Know
Dyslexia & Mental Health --- 3 Studies You Should Know
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Dr. Jessica Eccles
Hyper-Mobility & Anxiety
Hyper-Mobility & Neuro-Diversity
Hyper-Mobility & Anxiety
Hyper-Mobility & Neuro-Diversity
HealthyGamerGG
Quiet Quitting? Should You Do It?
Quiet Quitting? Should You Do It?
Val's Note: One of the things I really like about this video is that it's talking about treating people as "HUMAN BEINGS" in the workplace.
For Neuro-Diverse people with idiosyncratic energy and sensory issues --- it really helps if WE KNOW what our needs are and we can seek out or create work environments that are going to work for us.
A lot of neuro-diverse people got skewed perceptions of themselves growing up depending on which label they got --- were they "GIFTED" --- did they have "ADHD," "AUTISM," "DYSLEXIA" --- etc.
For a lot of neuro-diverse people who were basically led to believe they were "LESS THAN" --- they are going to find out they do have considerable strengths.
For neuro-diverse people who were basically led to believe they were "MORE THAN" --- they are going to find out they have significant weaknesses --- and that can be very painful if you're using PERFECTIONISM to make your way in the world.
For Neuro-Diverse people with idiosyncratic energy and sensory issues --- it really helps if WE KNOW what our needs are and we can seek out or create work environments that are going to work for us.
A lot of neuro-diverse people got skewed perceptions of themselves growing up depending on which label they got --- were they "GIFTED" --- did they have "ADHD," "AUTISM," "DYSLEXIA" --- etc.
For a lot of neuro-diverse people who were basically led to believe they were "LESS THAN" --- they are going to find out they do have considerable strengths.
For neuro-diverse people who were basically led to believe they were "MORE THAN" --- they are going to find out they have significant weaknesses --- and that can be very painful if you're using PERFECTIONISM to make your way in the world.
Eknath Easwaran
Slowing Down Our Thoughts
Slowing Down Our Thoughts
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Moleculera Labs
Neuroimmune Aspects of Autism Spectrum Disorders (Oct. 2023) |
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Metabolic Mind
Michael Berk, PhD --- Mitochondria & Energy Deficit in Mood Disorders
Michael Berk, PhD --- Mitochondria & Energy Deficit in Mood Disorders
Niall Horan
Meltdown
Meltdown
Advances In Migraine Sciences
Lessons Learned from Biomarker Discoveries in Psychiatry | Prof. Michael E. Benros | ICAMS 2022
Lessons Learned from Biomarker Discoveries in Psychiatry | Prof. Michael E. Benros | ICAMS 2022
The University of Sydney's Brain and Mind Centre
Understanding Immune System related Psychotic and Mood Disorders
Understanding Immune System related Psychotic and Mood Disorders
Val's Take: So this video from the University of Sidney in Australia is viewing "immune issues" in psychotic and mood disorders in relation to a young person who doesn't respond to typical treatment.
I would submit that much of the current research of mental and brain disorders is establishing "SOME KIND" of Immune Component for most mental and brain disorders --- but they are NOT ALL THE SAME.
The PROFESSOR/DOCTOR in the video discusses the need for the Medical Profession to OPENLY ACKNOWLEDGE ---- UNCERTAINTY in MEDICINE.
What are the ramifications of that "UNCERTAINTY" in the CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM, especially as it relates to BURDEN OF PROOF?
I would submit that much of the current research of mental and brain disorders is establishing "SOME KIND" of Immune Component for most mental and brain disorders --- but they are NOT ALL THE SAME.
The PROFESSOR/DOCTOR in the video discusses the need for the Medical Profession to OPENLY ACKNOWLEDGE ---- UNCERTAINTY in MEDICINE.
What are the ramifications of that "UNCERTAINTY" in the CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM, especially as it relates to BURDEN OF PROOF?
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UK Trauma Council
Epigenetics & Mental Health |
Science Select
Hyper Brain, Hyper Body - The Trouble with High IQ |
De Caro & Kaplen, LLP
TBI in the Homeless Population
TBI in the Homeless Population
Val's Take: I've advocated for a Public Health Approach to Criminal Justice and I would say that is also needed with Homelessness.
Of course, that is kind of happening in Denver and Colorado generally, and other places around the US and the WORLD.
The problem is the Health Care and Supportive Employment response is grossly inadequate to the NEED.
DATA Collection is a Civil Rights Issue and collecting AGGREGATE DATA with Non-Identifying Information beyond the POINT IN TIME COUNT could be very helpful to the planning process --- It could also better explain why people are in the need of this ASSISTANCE and SUPPORT.
If we think this is just about helping FOLKS GET BACK ON THEIR FEET --- of course it is --- but many homeless and incarcerated people are facing some of the most complicated HEALTH ISSUES out there.
Of course, that is kind of happening in Denver and Colorado generally, and other places around the US and the WORLD.
The problem is the Health Care and Supportive Employment response is grossly inadequate to the NEED.
DATA Collection is a Civil Rights Issue and collecting AGGREGATE DATA with Non-Identifying Information beyond the POINT IN TIME COUNT could be very helpful to the planning process --- It could also better explain why people are in the need of this ASSISTANCE and SUPPORT.
If we think this is just about helping FOLKS GET BACK ON THEIR FEET --- of course it is --- but many homeless and incarcerated people are facing some of the most complicated HEALTH ISSUES out there.
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AbleLight
Homeless & Alone with Autism |
Stephanie Bethany
Autism & Life Expectancy |
Val's Take/Conjecture: We need to realize how many Neuro-Diverse People are HOMELESS and the Society is just not working for them and often they don't know why and neither does the Society.
THAT IS CHANGING.
"SHELTERS" can be a very hard place for some Neuro-Diverse people to function due to SENSORY & OVER-STIMULATION ISSUES that can lead to a MELTDOWN.
Stephanie Bethany talks about some HARD THINGS involving "Autism" including LIFE EXPECTANCY, MORTALITY and SUICIDE.
Interestingly, SUICIDE RATES are HIGH among AUTISTIC PEOPLE with Average or Above Average IQ.
That "INVISIBLE DIFFERENCE or DISABILITY" is not only hard to see or understand for the Society -- It's hard for the PERSON as well.
The DSM Categories MISS A LOT OF PEOPLE --- and we're often DIAGNOSING many of these NEURO-DIVERSE ISSUES after a CRISIS or MULTIPLE CRISES, involving BURNOUTS and BREAKDOWNS.
And in the case of MELTDOWN --- we often don't even care.
In a lot of ways this isn't that surprising --- It's taken a minute to go back in the CHAIN OF CAUSALITY to understand what may be behind these challenges.
THAT IS CHANGING.
"SHELTERS" can be a very hard place for some Neuro-Diverse people to function due to SENSORY & OVER-STIMULATION ISSUES that can lead to a MELTDOWN.
Stephanie Bethany talks about some HARD THINGS involving "Autism" including LIFE EXPECTANCY, MORTALITY and SUICIDE.
Interestingly, SUICIDE RATES are HIGH among AUTISTIC PEOPLE with Average or Above Average IQ.
That "INVISIBLE DIFFERENCE or DISABILITY" is not only hard to see or understand for the Society -- It's hard for the PERSON as well.
The DSM Categories MISS A LOT OF PEOPLE --- and we're often DIAGNOSING many of these NEURO-DIVERSE ISSUES after a CRISIS or MULTIPLE CRISES, involving BURNOUTS and BREAKDOWNS.
And in the case of MELTDOWN --- we often don't even care.
In a lot of ways this isn't that surprising --- It's taken a minute to go back in the CHAIN OF CAUSALITY to understand what may be behind these challenges.
How to ADHD -- Jessica McCabe
Home Edition: Battling Executive Functioning Challenges
Home Edition: Battling Executive Functioning Challenges
Val's Take: I think for a lot of Neuro-Diverse People --- BRIGHT LINE NEURO-TYPICAL WAYS of doing things can be hard if not impossible for us.
Taking into account the "TOTALITY OF THE CIRCUMSTANCES" (a more EQUITABLE APPROACH) --- Home Chores, Work Chores , Personal Relationships, Relaxation --- is absolutely necessary to construct a life in which you don't constantly feel like your being pushed OUT OF BOUNDS or HOMEOSTASIS.
That is a lot about SELF-KNOWLEDGE --- if we have an idea that SMART PEOPLE DON'T HAVE EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING CHALLENGES ---
A lot of our conflicts are with other NEURO-DIVERSE PEOPLE who are coming at this in a different respect --- it often comes down to who has the most power.
Nobody likes that --- BUT SPLITTING THE BABY DOWN THE MIDDLE --- is often not a wise idea either.
This is really requiring a lot of fairly HEAVY LIFTING to come up with VIABLE THIRD ALTERNATIVES.
Now I don't think that is as true as it was 30 years ago, and I don't think it will be as hard in 2053 as it is 2023.
I think there are a lot of Neuro-Diverse Trail-Blazers who are doing that HEAVY LIFTING.
Taking into account the "TOTALITY OF THE CIRCUMSTANCES" (a more EQUITABLE APPROACH) --- Home Chores, Work Chores , Personal Relationships, Relaxation --- is absolutely necessary to construct a life in which you don't constantly feel like your being pushed OUT OF BOUNDS or HOMEOSTASIS.
That is a lot about SELF-KNOWLEDGE --- if we have an idea that SMART PEOPLE DON'T HAVE EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING CHALLENGES ---
- We're going to make it very hard on ourselves, and
- Probably those around us
A lot of our conflicts are with other NEURO-DIVERSE PEOPLE who are coming at this in a different respect --- it often comes down to who has the most power.
Nobody likes that --- BUT SPLITTING THE BABY DOWN THE MIDDLE --- is often not a wise idea either.
This is really requiring a lot of fairly HEAVY LIFTING to come up with VIABLE THIRD ALTERNATIVES.
Now I don't think that is as true as it was 30 years ago, and I don't think it will be as hard in 2053 as it is 2023.
I think there are a lot of Neuro-Diverse Trail-Blazers who are doing that HEAVY LIFTING.
George Ezra
Shotgun
Shotgun
Andrea Libutti, MD
Is My Child Autistic or Gifted?
Is My Child Autistic or Gifted?
Val's Take: I'm posting this because there is a sizeable contingent of "GIFTED KIDS" now ADULTS who were often "MIDDLE CLASS" --- who are getting that LATE DIAGNOSIS.
"GIFTEDNESS" is part of Neuro-Diversity and Neuro-Diversity CATEGORIES are BLURRED ---- There are STRENGTHS but it's NOT A FREE LUNCH --- People are often paying a HIGH PRICE --- in terms of ENERGY, EMOTIONAL REGULATION and PHYSICAL REGULATION.
[That "Maternal Immune Activation" --- Dysregulated Multiple Systems of the Body --- not just the Central Nervous System]
Further, there's another contingent of "GIFTED" folks that tends to run ROUGH-SHOD in this Society with few constraints --- the Bill Clintons, Donald Trumps and Elon Musks of the World --- THAT'S NOT A GOOD THING.
I'm a BIG PROPONENT of STRENGTH-BASED SYSTEMS (probably 80% of our time should be spent on STRENGTHS) --- but we need to at least be AWARE of some of our challenges (others are quick to let us know --- if we haven't economically or legally prohibited it) --- that doesn't have to be a bad thing if we recognize that EVERYONE has STRENGTHS & CHALLENGES.
"GIFTEDNESS" is part of Neuro-Diversity and Neuro-Diversity CATEGORIES are BLURRED ---- There are STRENGTHS but it's NOT A FREE LUNCH --- People are often paying a HIGH PRICE --- in terms of ENERGY, EMOTIONAL REGULATION and PHYSICAL REGULATION.
[That "Maternal Immune Activation" --- Dysregulated Multiple Systems of the Body --- not just the Central Nervous System]
Further, there's another contingent of "GIFTED" folks that tends to run ROUGH-SHOD in this Society with few constraints --- the Bill Clintons, Donald Trumps and Elon Musks of the World --- THAT'S NOT A GOOD THING.
I'm a BIG PROPONENT of STRENGTH-BASED SYSTEMS (probably 80% of our time should be spent on STRENGTHS) --- but we need to at least be AWARE of some of our challenges (others are quick to let us know --- if we haven't economically or legally prohibited it) --- that doesn't have to be a bad thing if we recognize that EVERYONE has STRENGTHS & CHALLENGES.
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UCTV
(University of California Television) Pharmacotherapy for Anxiety and Stress-Related Behavior Dysregulation Neurodevelopmental Disorders (2019) |
The Health Foundation (UK)
Shared Decision Making to Improve Work of CAMHS |
Val's Take: So the point of this posting is to start re-training our focus to Neuro-Developmental Issues which are very common in the Criminal Justice System and Homelessness and which I think are often PRIMARY to later SMI (Serious Mental Illness).
This is a long video --- most people are probably not going to watch it in its entirety.
I've also included a much shorter video on "Shared Decision-Making" from the UK. I think this also needs to be PAIRED with INTEGRATED PHYSICAL, DEVELOPMENTAL & MENTAL HEALTH CARE.
This is a long video --- most people are probably not going to watch it in its entirety.
I've also included a much shorter video on "Shared Decision-Making" from the UK. I think this also needs to be PAIRED with INTEGRATED PHYSICAL, DEVELOPMENTAL & MENTAL HEALTH CARE.
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Director Martin Scorsese
Killers of the Flower Moon Trailer |
Emory Healthcare
Intergenerational Trauma |
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PBS --- The Brain & David Eagleman
In Groups & Out Groups A single word label is enough to change your brain's pre-conscious response to someone pain. Val's Take: It's easy to spot this when you're on the receiving end --- it's much harder to recognize one's own pre-conscious responses. |
Firing Line with William F. Buckley, Jr.
Mortimer Adler Good Teachers are Learning with their Students |
Val's Take: To me understanding the powerful effects of In-Groups and Out-Groups is one of the GREAT IDEAS that is likely to transform SOCIETY, especially when paired with the BIOLOGICAL BASIS of BEHAVIOR.
That Biological Basis of Behavior is NOT SEPARATE or in OPPOSITION to SOCIAL and/or ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES --- it is just to say those influences impact the underlying BIOLOGY as well.
Further, I think the CHALLENGE for the 21st CENTURY is --- not to try and find another OUT-GROUP ---- but to as responsibly as possible bring EVERYONE INTO THE SAME DIVERSE TRIBE.
SAFETY is the BIG ISSUE --- but there is a lot of COMMONALITY OF INTEREST if we can get out of some of the POWERFUL IN-GROUPS and OUT-GROUPS of the ADVERSARY SYSTEM.
"ETHICS" is a moving target based on a largely expanding KNOWLEDGE BASE.
We never have all the answers, the more our SYSTEMS can deal with that "ETHICALLY" --- the better --- That is one of many reasons I'm a proponent of a PUBLIC HEALTH APPROACH TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE and many justice systems around the US and the World are probably beyond the first steps on that path.
I would certainly like to see it go more quickly --- it is challenging given the ENORMOUS AMOUNT OF INFORMATION we need to CONTINUALLY INTEGRATE ACROSS MULTIPLE DISCIPLINES.
That Biological Basis of Behavior is NOT SEPARATE or in OPPOSITION to SOCIAL and/or ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES --- it is just to say those influences impact the underlying BIOLOGY as well.
Further, I think the CHALLENGE for the 21st CENTURY is --- not to try and find another OUT-GROUP ---- but to as responsibly as possible bring EVERYONE INTO THE SAME DIVERSE TRIBE.
SAFETY is the BIG ISSUE --- but there is a lot of COMMONALITY OF INTEREST if we can get out of some of the POWERFUL IN-GROUPS and OUT-GROUPS of the ADVERSARY SYSTEM.
"ETHICS" is a moving target based on a largely expanding KNOWLEDGE BASE.
We never have all the answers, the more our SYSTEMS can deal with that "ETHICALLY" --- the better --- That is one of many reasons I'm a proponent of a PUBLIC HEALTH APPROACH TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE and many justice systems around the US and the World are probably beyond the first steps on that path.
I would certainly like to see it go more quickly --- it is challenging given the ENORMOUS AMOUNT OF INFORMATION we need to CONTINUALLY INTEGRATE ACROSS MULTIPLE DISCIPLINES.
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Intelligence and Mental Health Issues --- related to "OVER-EXCITABLE BRAINS"
I think "Over-Excitabilities" is a carefully chosen word -- because the "GIFTED COMMUNITY" going back to Dabrowski identified "OVER-EXCITABILITIES" in "Gifted" Children. |
Bipolar linked to Above Average Ability in the Humanities.
To a lesser degree "Below" Average Ability in the Humanities. The best place to be was "AVERAGE." |
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The beautiful Marina --- is a "HAPPY LONER" because being around people is "TOO MUCH, TOO MUCH."
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James Chan is the stereotypical spatial genius with autism.
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When Karly Fleischmann looks at a face she sees a Thousand images of a face.
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Over-Excitabilities and Asynchronous Development
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Kings College London -- Dr. Benjamin Baig
ADHD & Asthma
ADHD & Asthma
ADDITUDE Magazine Thomas E. Brown, Ph.D
ADHD & Autism: The Missed Diagnosis in Smart Kids & Adults
ADHD & Autism: The Missed Diagnosis in Smart Kids & Adults
PBS NewsHour
Remembering Judy Heumann's Lasting Contribution to Disability Rights
Remembering Judy Heumann's Lasting Contribution to Disability Rights
American Bar Association Civil Rights & Social Justice Section:
Statement on the Passing of Judith Heumann
Statement on the Passing of Judith Heumann
9 News Next
Adams County Jail -- Inmate Experiencing Psychotic Episode, Prone Restraint and Death
Adams County Jail -- Inmate Experiencing Psychotic Episode, Prone Restraint and Death
Val's Take: These cases are often poised as the Jail and Law Enforcement vs. the Individual or the Individual's Family.
Some enterprising attorney on either the Plaintiff or Defendant's side needs to bring the State in as additional Defendant.
These cases are very much the logical result of the State's failure to make a COMPREHENSIVE, EFFECTIVELY WORKING PLAN for People with Disabilities --- including mental illness as required under the Supreme Court's 1999 Olmstead Decision to avoid liability for "UNNECESSARY INSTITUTIONALIZATION" of People with Disabilities under TITLE II of the Americans with DISABILITIES ACT (ADA).
All Institutions are not created equal --- AND a therapeutic secure placement is not perfect but it's a lot better than a jail or prison.
Further, "INSTITUTIONALIZATION" is not the "YES" or "NO" question we often think --- it is very much a matter of DEGREES and HORROR.
This society is resorting to the WORST FORMS OF "INSTITUTIONALIZATION" because there is little sense of the LOGICAL CONSEQUENCES of FAILURE TO PROVIDE appropriate PLACEMENTS, HOUSING & SERVICES or ADDRESS LEGITIMATE SAFETY ISSUES for people with Average to Above-Average IQ and Neuro-Developmental Differences and/or Psychiatric Disorders and/or Brain Injury and/or Substance Issues that are often related to one or more of the above.
Further, we need to be doing planning for the LONG-TERM for the LIFE-SPAN.
THE RESULTS OF FAILURE TO DO THAT PLANNING ARE CRAZY.
AND from a LEGAL STANDPOINT -- STATES have had over 20 YEARS to do it.
Some enterprising attorney on either the Plaintiff or Defendant's side needs to bring the State in as additional Defendant.
These cases are very much the logical result of the State's failure to make a COMPREHENSIVE, EFFECTIVELY WORKING PLAN for People with Disabilities --- including mental illness as required under the Supreme Court's 1999 Olmstead Decision to avoid liability for "UNNECESSARY INSTITUTIONALIZATION" of People with Disabilities under TITLE II of the Americans with DISABILITIES ACT (ADA).
All Institutions are not created equal --- AND a therapeutic secure placement is not perfect but it's a lot better than a jail or prison.
Further, "INSTITUTIONALIZATION" is not the "YES" or "NO" question we often think --- it is very much a matter of DEGREES and HORROR.
This society is resorting to the WORST FORMS OF "INSTITUTIONALIZATION" because there is little sense of the LOGICAL CONSEQUENCES of FAILURE TO PROVIDE appropriate PLACEMENTS, HOUSING & SERVICES or ADDRESS LEGITIMATE SAFETY ISSUES for people with Average to Above-Average IQ and Neuro-Developmental Differences and/or Psychiatric Disorders and/or Brain Injury and/or Substance Issues that are often related to one or more of the above.
Further, we need to be doing planning for the LONG-TERM for the LIFE-SPAN.
THE RESULTS OF FAILURE TO DO THAT PLANNING ARE CRAZY.
AND from a LEGAL STANDPOINT -- STATES have had over 20 YEARS to do it.
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Understood
ADHD & Dyslexia: Work Smarter, Not Harder |
Dr. Brandi Maynard
Helping Gifted Kids Cope with Sensory Overload Autism from the Inside
Why So Tired? How Sensory Processing Affects Executive Functioning |
Val's Take: When it comes to Neuro-Diversity (ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Giftedness, etc.) --- TRYING HARDER USUALLY DOESN'T WORK.
This is where some "THERAPY" can make things WORSE.
"Dyslexia" has become easier to IDENTIFY.
BUT SENSORY PROCESSING DIFFERENCES are often NOT WELL IDENTIFIED and they are associated with many NEURO-DEVELOPMENTAL DIFFERENCES such as ADHD, AUTISM & GIFTEDNESS and even DYSLEXIA.
Those SENSORY PROCESSING DIFFERENCES often have a TIME COST --- so while the person may actually be processing MORE INFORMATION --- that is often coming at an ENERGY AND TIME COST.
That can be CONFUSING to EVERYONE: the person, the family, teachers, employers and friends.
This is where some "THERAPY" can make things WORSE.
"Dyslexia" has become easier to IDENTIFY.
BUT SENSORY PROCESSING DIFFERENCES are often NOT WELL IDENTIFIED and they are associated with many NEURO-DEVELOPMENTAL DIFFERENCES such as ADHD, AUTISM & GIFTEDNESS and even DYSLEXIA.
Those SENSORY PROCESSING DIFFERENCES often have a TIME COST --- so while the person may actually be processing MORE INFORMATION --- that is often coming at an ENERGY AND TIME COST.
That can be CONFUSING to EVERYONE: the person, the family, teachers, employers and friends.
