PowerPoint Course: Conditions Affecting the Nervous System, Autism, and ADHD

 

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Slide 1 – Title Slide

Title: Conditions Affecting the Nervous System: Autism & ADHD
Subtitle: Understanding Neurodivergence, Emotional Dysregulation, and Mental Health
Image/Visual Suggestion: Brain illustration or nervous system diagram

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Slide 2 – Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

1. Describe autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ADHD.
2. Explain how nervous system dysregulation affects emotions.
3. Recognize common co-occurring mental health challenges.
4. Identify behavioral signs and symptoms.
5. Explore treatment, management, and self-regulation strategies.

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Slide 3 – What Are Neurodevelopmental Conditions?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):

• Lifelong condition affecting social communication, behavior, and sensory processing.

ADHD:

• Differences in focus, impulse control, and emotional regulation.
• Linked to dopamine regulation differences in the brain.

Visual: Two side-by-side icons representing ASD and ADHD

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Slide 4 – Nervous System Dysregulation

Definition:

• Nervous system becomes stuck in fight-or-flight mode, especially in autistic or ADHD individuals.

Effects:

• Sensory overload (light, sound, touch)
• Chronic pain or tension
• Sleep difficulties

Visual Suggestion: Simple diagram of nervous system “overactive” vs “calm” states

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Slide 5 – Co-Occurring Emotional and Mental Health Challenges

Anxiety:

• Very common; includes generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety.

Depression:

• Often starts early due to environmental or biological factors.

Anger & Emotional Dysregulation:

• ADHD: low frustration tolerance, quick mood swings
• Autism: intense tantrums or aggression, often triggered by sensory overwhelm

Brain Inflammation:

• May contribute to mood disorders and impact therapy effectiveness

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Slide 6 – Common Behaviors and Symptoms

Sensory Overload: Stress or meltdowns triggered by noise, lights, or textures
Executive Dysfunction: Difficulty planning, organizing, remembering tasks
Social Difficulties: Stress in social situations leading to anxiety
Visual Suggestion: Icons for senses, calendar/tasks, and social interactions

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Slide 7 – Treatment & Management Approaches

Therapy:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) adapted for neurodivergent individuals
• Focus on anxiety, depression, and anger management

Self-Regulation Techniques:

• Deep breathing, yoga, meditation, mindfulness

Support & Education:

• Recognizing triggers, understanding personal nervous system responses

Medical Management:

• ADHD medications or treatment for co-occurring conditions

Visual Suggestion: Icon set of therapy, yoga, education, and medication

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Slide 8 – Key Takeaways

• Autism and ADHD are neurodevelopmental conditions that can affect emotions and behavior.
• Nervous system dysregulation may cause anxiety, anger, or sensory overwhelm.
• Early recognition and self-regulation strategies improve quality of life.
• Therapy, education, support, and medical management all play a role.

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Slide 9 – Resources & Further Learning

Websites/Organizations:

• Autism Speaks – https://www.autismspeaks.org
• ADHD Aware – https://adhdaware.org.uk
• The Brain Charity – https://www.thebraincharity.org.uk

Visual Suggestion: Logos of organizations or accessible links

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Slide 10 – Reflection / Interactive Slide

Questions for Learners:

1. What are three signs of nervous system dysregulation?
2. Name one self-regulation technique you could use.
3. How can understanding ADHD or autism help reduce anxiety?

Optional Activity: Role-play or discussion based on scenarios

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Slide 11 – Course Summary

• Reviewed ASD, ADHD, and nervous system dysregulation
• Explored co-occurring mental health challenges
• Identified behavioral symptoms
• Examined treatment, self-regulation, and support approaches

Closing Visual: Brain and heart illustration for “mind and emotions”