Research shows that our ability to manage thoughts, emotions, and behavior, known as executive functioning, can be strengthened through simple mindfulness practices. Mindfulness, a practice rooted in ancient traditions and adapted for modern psychology and education, can help strengthen cognitive skills. By cultivating present-moment awareness and nonjudgmental acceptance of thoughts and emotions, mindfulness can improve … read more
What if improving your executive functioning can start with taking better care of yourself? Executive functioning skills such as cognitive flexibility, self-monitoring, and planning are important for starting and maintaining healthy habits. Daily routines that include sleep, nutrition, mindfulness, movement, and social support can strengthen cognitive functioning, emotional regulation, and goal-directed behavior. In this article, … read more
Being a teen is hard enough. For neurodivergent teens, the weight of feeling “different” can intensify stress, isolation, and self-doubt. Have you ever heard a student say, “No one understands me,” or a teen wonder why they cannot seem to fit in, no matter how hard they try? These moments highlight the emotional toll of … read more
Have you ever felt exhausted, foggy, overstimulated, or overwhelmed, but struggled to identify exactly why? Burnout is more than just mental fatigue; it often speaks through the body in subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways. These physical signs and symptoms are your body’s way of sounding the alarm. This article explores burnout, its physical manifestations, and why … read more
Can your favorite social media app actually make it harder to focus, plan, and stay organized? Social media can be helpful but might overload your executive functioning if used excessively. Learning how it affects your thinking, emotions, and self-control can help you make more informed choices online. This guide explores how social media influences executive … read more
Positive affirmations—simple, intentional statements about self-worth, emotional regulation, and motivation—are everywhere in our environment. Scroll through social media. Walk through department store aisles. Flip through a magazine and you’re bound to see slogans like, “You’re worth it.” and “Do what you love.” Research shows regularly repeating positive affirmations can help you think differently, talk to … read more
Finding a therapist who understands and supports your neurodivergence can be challenging. The right therapist can support neurodivergent individuals in building coping skills, improve emotional regulation skills, and navigate life’s challenges with confidence. Unfortunately, many neurodivergent individuals find it challenging to connect with a therapist who truly “gets it”—someone who sees their strengths, understands their … read more
Did you know that the average person can describe or distinguish up to 27 distinct emotions? For neurodivergent teens and young adults, navigating that emotional landscape can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces. Enter the feelings chart: a simple yet powerful tool designed to make recognizing and expressing emotions more accessible. … read more
If you are neurodivergent and everyday tasks suddenly feel heavier, louder, and harder than they used to, you might be experiencing neurodivergent burnout rather than a lack of motivation or discipline. Neurodivergent burnout is a deep state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that happens when your nervous system has been working overtime for too … read more
Whether you’re a student taking a test or a young adult navigating independent living tasks like paying bills, grocery shopping, or applying for jobs, stress is an unavoidable part of day-to-day living. High-stress situations can make it incredibly hard for learners to express their needs, even when they desperately want support. For neurodivergent learners and … read more