autism features

In 2016, the UK government launched a groundbreaking drive to reduce the use of psychotropic drugs for people with autism and learning disabilities. But recent figures show that while prescribing rates for antipsychotics have fallen since the campaign’s launch, antidepressants, hypnotics, and stimulants have all risen.

On 18/07/19, we facilitated a #LDTchat on neurodiversity. Catch up on what was discussed here.

An interview with Dr Phoebe Caldwell, an expert in Intensive Interaction.

Having an autistic spectrum disorder, learning disability, or mental health problem should not prohibit someone from enjoying cultural events such as theatre. A playhouse in Nottingham is using theatre to facilitate discussion and tackle stigma.

Oliver McGowan died after being given antipsychotic medicine against his and his family's wishes. His mother speaks exclusively to LDT. 

Recent research shows that therapeutic horse riding has many benefits for autistic children: from a reduction in hyperactivity, to an improvement in word fluency. 

Explores whether CBT can be adapted and used effectively for people with learning disabilities. 

Aquatic therapy goes beyond decreasing stress - it is showing results in developing speech.

Imagine seeing and tasting a favourite song as well as being drawn to its familiar melody. This is how those with synesthesia — a condition where the senses are joined — can experience the world. Darren Devine reports.

An appeal for diagnoses to be made more constructively has been published.