Treatment Interventions
摘要
Neurodevelopmental disorders have traditionally been thought of as childhood illnesses. Only in the past decade or so have we seen a shift in this perception with newer research data in adults, especially women. Several medications, as well as psychotherapies, have been studied as potential treatment options for chronic neurocognitive deficits and emotional instability in children affected with NDD. However, research data on adults remains limited. In this chapter, I will discuss the latest available research on possible treatment interventions for adults with commonly presenting NDD, such as ADHD and ASD. More specifically, I will focus on the specific needs of adult women, especially during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Based on the available evidence base, I will comment on the compatibility of ADHD and psychiatric medications in pregnancy and lactation. In terms of psychotherapy, I will cover skills-based interventions, as well as attachment and trauma-focused therapies modified to fit the needs of neurodiverse individuals. My goal is also to highlight common barriers to seeking psychiatric care for mothers with NDD, clinical challenges during the postpartum transition, including medication safety during pregnancy and lactation, changes in family dynamics, difficulties meeting basic needs of nutrition, hydration, hygiene, and sleep for mothers caring for babies and/or young children. In addition to presenting the latest research on these issues, I will share clinical experiences from my work with this vulnerable population.