When psychologist Thomas Brown started seeing students, he suspected they might be suffering from ADHD. But it carried a stigma, and parents resisted the diagnosis—and medication.

A recent national survey reveals that one in five high school students has either engaged in a romantic relationship with an AI or knows someone who has. This finding highlights the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the lives of young people, raising important questions about emotional connections and the implications for social interactions in schools. As AI continues to evolve, understanding its impact on relationships and community trust in educational environments becomes increasingly crucial.

The ongoing debate about whether to split the autism spectrum is gaining traction, particularly among families of individuals with severe autism. They feel that the broadening of the diagnosis has marginalized their experiences. With renewed attention on the disorder, advocates like Jodie Singer's family are seizing the opportunity to voice their concerns and push for recognition of their unique challenges. This discussion is crucial as it highlights the need for tailored support and understanding for those with severe autism.

Freshers' flu is making the rounds among students, with many sharing their experiences of persistent coughing and other symptoms. This seasonal illness often affects newcomers to university, highlighting the importance of self-care and community support during this time. Understanding how to manage and recover from freshers' flu can help students maintain their health and enjoy their university experience.

Spending just 20 minutes in nature can significantly improve your health by lowering blood pressure, heart rate, and stress levels. This simple yet effective practice highlights the importance of connecting with the natural world, especially in our fast-paced lives. Taking time to enjoy nature not only benefits your physical health but also enhances your mental well-being, making it a vital habit for everyone.

This year's Nobel Prizes celebrate the importance of slow science, highlighting achievements in Physiology or Medicine, Physics, and Chemistry that stem from decades of fundamental research. Richard Robson, one of the Chemistry laureates, exemplifies this with work that began in the 1980s. This recognition not only honors past efforts but also emphasizes the value of patience and persistence in scientific discovery, reminding us that groundbreaking advancements often take time to materialize.

Psychologist Thomas Brown played a pivotal role in changing the perception of ADHD, helping to reduce the stigma surrounding the disorder. Initially, many parents were hesitant to accept the diagnosis for their children, but as awareness grew, Brown's insights helped shape public and professional understanding of ADHD. This shift is significant as it encourages more students to receive the support they need, ultimately leading to better educational and personal outcomes.

Eve Irvine recently hosted Grégoire Borst, a professor at Université Paris Descartes, who discussed the profound impact of reading on cognitive development and societal engagement. He emphasized that reading goes beyond mere enjoyment or information retention; it serves as a form of mental training that enhances critical thinking, empathy, and cognitive resilience. This conversation highlights the importance of fostering a reading culture, as it not only enriches individual minds but also strengthens communities by promoting civic-mindedness.

The Times is launching a new series to highlight the impact of policy changes by the Trump administration on scientific research. They are seeking stories from scientists whose work has been cut, shedding light on the broader implications for innovation and knowledge in the scientific community. This matters because it underscores the challenges faced by researchers and the potential loss of valuable contributions to society.

A North Dakota judge has upheld the state's ban on gender-affirming care for children, a decision that has sparked significant debate. This ruling is crucial as it impacts the rights and healthcare options available to transgender youth, raising concerns among advocates about the potential harm to vulnerable populations.