Latest news with #DecodingAutism
Time of India
2 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Overthinking: The Silent Killer
An author of the book 'Decoding Autism' and a learning disability expert working in the field of mental health from past 20 years. A regular TV personality for a talk show on career counselling and mental health by name Aap Aur Hum. Achieved tremendous success in the field of learning disabilities. The first dyslexic child in History of CBSE has been his student. Time and again his work has been acknowledged by various leading Newspapers and magazines. Recently, he was awarded by Rotary Club for his work in field learning disabilities. Holds regular seminar and awareness campaign all over India for his mission of inclusive India. He is also the founder and director of Adhyayan Inclusive Learning Centre which deals with teaching and helping children with special needs (CWSN). He has been successfully helping students with Dyslexia,Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia,Dyspraxia and Autism in building their academic and social skills along with developing their strong emotional quotient. LESS ... MORE In today's fast-paced, hyperconnected world, there's a hidden enemy stealing time, energy, and peace of mind. It's not burnout or stress — it's overthinking. Often brushed off as 'just being cautious,' overthinking quietly tightens its grip, draining your mental bandwidth, clouding judgment, and derailing dreams. In India, where cultural expectations, family pressure, and social comparison are everyday realities, the silent storm of overthinking becomes even more intense. And yet, most of us don't even realize how deeply it affects our lives — until it's too late. What Exactly Is Overthinking — and Why Do We All Do It? Overthinking is when your mind refuses to switch off. You replay past conversations. You stress about choices you haven't made. You imagine every worst-case scenario until you're mentally exhausted — and still no closer to a solution. It's not reflection. It's rumination. It's like being trapped in a mental traffic jam where thoughts go in circles, but nothing moves forward. Example A student preparing for an exam might think: 'What if I fail? What will my parents say? What if I let everyone down?' Instead of studying, they spiral. That's overthinking in action. The Loop of Overthinking: How It Traps You Overthinking usually follows a predictable and dangerous cycle: Trigger – What ifs & Should haves – Indecision – Self- doubt – Delay – Mental fatigue – Back to trigger. Real-Life Example: Riya(name changed), a 28-year-old from Delhi, dreams of opening a café. For months, she's stuck in a loop: 'What if no one comes? What will people say? What if I fail?' While she hesitates, another café opens in the same location — and thrives. Riya is left with regret and an unfulfilled dream. What's Fueling the Overthinking Epidemic in India? Several deep-rooted societal and psychological factors make Indians particularly vulnerable: Fear of Failure – Competitive education and job markets create constant pressure. Societal Expectations – Family, caste, and community opinions weigh heavily on personal choices. Perfectionism – Many of us are raised to avoid mistakes at all costs. Information Overload – News, reels, WhatsApp forwards — there's always something to compare yourself to. Low Confidence – Past failures or overprotective upbringings can crush decisiveness. Lack of Decision-Making Practice – Especially in childhood, where choices were often made for us. How Overthinking Wrecks Your Life (Quietly but Surely) Overthinking doesn't come with sirens. It's slow, quiet, and damaging — like a virus running in the background. Reduced Efficiency – Thinking replaces doing. Low Productivity – Tasks remain unfinished. Memory Issues – Foggy brain, poor retention. Poor Decisions – Or no decisions at all. Procrastination – Fear fuels avoidance. Stalled Goals – Action is replaced with anxiety. The Mental Health Fallout: Why It's More Than Just a 'Bad Habit' Overthinking is a gateway to bigger issues — and the data proves it. Filter the Noise – Limit social media, news, and online rabbit holes. One Step at a Time – Break large tasks into manageable chunks. Talk It Out – Share your worries with someone who listens — friend, family, or therapist. Get Moving – A brisk walk or workout helps declutter the mind. Accept Imperfection – Let go of the myth of the 'perfect' decision. Self-Check: Are You Overthinking? Ask yourself: Do I replay conversations or events in my head often? Do I spend more time thinking than actually doing? Am I mentally tired even when I haven't done much physically? Do I delay decisions, even when I know the facts? Do I worry more about others' opinions than my own instincts? If you answered 'yes' to three or more, you might be caught in an overthinking loop. Final Thoughts: You're Not Alone — and You're Not Stuck Overthinking doesn't kill people — it kills potential. It delays dreams, muffles confidence, and replaces momentum with fear. But here's the truth: you don't need to have it all figured out to move forward. The mind finds clarity in motion, not in endless thought. So take the leap, start small, and trust that every step will lead you somewhere better than standing still. Sources: National Mental Health Survey of India, NIMHANS (2016) The Lancet Psychiatry (2019): 'The burden of mental disorders across India' ICMR Mental Health Report (2017) NCRB Annual Suicide Statistics, Govt. of India (2022) Indian Journal of Psychiatry (2013): Suicide in India Review Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Disclaimer Views expressed above are the author's own.
Time of India
09-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
The Gut-Brain Connection: Enhancing Gastrointestinal Health in Children with Autism
An author of the book 'Decoding Autism' and a learning disability expert working in the field of mental health from past 20 years. A regular TV personality for a talk show on career counselling and mental health by name Aap Aur Hum. Achieved tremendous success in the field of learning disabilities. The first dyslexic child in History of CBSE has been his student. Time and again his work has been acknowledged by various leading Newspapers and magazines. Recently, he was awarded by Rotary Club for his work in field learning disabilities. Holds regular seminar and awareness campaign all over India for his mission of inclusive India. He is also the founder and director of Adhyayan Inclusive Learning Centre which deals with teaching and helping children with special needs (CWSN). He has been successfully helping students with Dyslexia,Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia,Dyspraxia and Autism in building their academic and social skills along with developing their strong emotional quotient. LESS ... MORE Emerging research increasingly highlights the crucial role of gut health in shaping behavioral and cognitive patterns in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The complex interaction between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain—commonly known as the gut-brain axis—has gained attention as a key area in understanding and supporting children with ASD. Understanding the Gut-Brain Axis in Autism The gut-brain axis refers to the bidirectional communication system between the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. This system involves neural, hormonal, and immune signaling pathways, and the gut microbiome—comprising trillions of microorganisms—plays a central role in this interaction. Children with ASD often experience gastrointestinal (GI) issues such as constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. These symptoms are increasingly understood not as isolated physical complaints but as interconnected with behavioral and neurological traits. Studies have reported differences in the gut microbiome composition between individuals with ASD and neurotypical individuals, suggesting that an imbalanced gut environment might influence developmental outcomes. Research-Backed Insights on Gut Health and Autism Recent scientific investigations support a connection between gut microbiota and neurological function in children with autism. For example, a study published in Nature Communications found that children with ASD exhibited differences in the metabolism of tryptophan—a key amino acid affecting brain chemistry. Notably, the study reported reduced levels of kynurenate, a metabolite with neuroprotective functions, and linked these metabolic shifts to changes in brain activity related to emotion and sensory processing (Sharon et al., 2024). In another notable study from Arizona State University, researchers explored the effects of Microbiota Transfer Therapy (MTT)—a procedure where beneficial bacteria are introduced into the gut microbiome. Results showed improvements in both GI symptoms and core autism behaviors, with some benefits sustained for up to two years post-treatment (Kang et al., 2019). These findings collectively underscore the potential of gut-focused interventions in improving quality of life for children with ASD. Dietary Interventions: Practical Tips from Your Kitchen Diet can significantly impact gut health, and consequently, behavioral outcomes in children with autism. Below are some practical dietary strategies to consider: 1. Include Probiotics and Prebiotics Probiotics, found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi, help introduce beneficial bacteria to the gut. Prebiotics, present in fiber-rich foods such as bananas, garlic, and onions, act as fuel for these beneficial microbes. When combined, they support a more balanced gut environment. 2. Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acids Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids—like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts—have anti-inflammatory properties and are linked to improved brain function. Some studies suggest supplementation may contribute to enhanced focus and reduced hyperactivity in children with ASD. 3. Ensure Nutritional Sufficiency Children with ASD may be at risk for deficiencies in key nutrients such as vitamin D, magnesium, and B vitamins. Periodic nutritional assessments and doctor-recommended supplements can help fill these gaps and support physical and cognitive health. 4. Explore Therapeutic Diets with Caution Specialized diets such as the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD) and Gut and Psychology Syndrome (GAPS) diet have been proposed to improve gut health. However, these diets are highly restrictive and should only be adopted under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional to ensure they meet the child's nutritional needs. Foods to Avoid: Planning for Social Events and Dining Out Navigating food choices outside the home can be challenging but manageable with some preparation. Here's a breakdown of what to avoid and what to opt for: Avoid: Highly Processed Foods: These often contain artificial additives that may influence behavior. Sugary Snacks and Beverages: These can contribute to energy fluctuations and irritability. Gluten and Casein: Some children may benefit from eliminating these proteins found in wheat and dairy, though scientific support is mixed. Consume: Whole Foods: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Gluten-Free/Dairy-Free Alternatives: Try products like almond milk or gluten-free bread. Homemade Snacks: Simple options like cut fruits, mixed nuts, or rice crackers are great for outings. Having safe, prepared options can ease stress during social occasions and ensure consistent dietary adherence. Empowering Parents and Caregivers The role of caregivers is critical in supporting dietary and lifestyle changes. Working with healthcare professionals such as pediatricians and dietitians allows for the development of personalized interventions based on the child's needs. Keeping a food and symptom journal can help track GI or behavioral improvements and adjust the approach over time. Creating a supportive home environment that emphasizes balanced meals, physical activity, and emotional well-being can further enhance the effectiveness of dietary strategies. Accessing community support groups and educational resources can also provide encouragement and insight. Conclusion Gut health is increasingly recognized as a key factor in the management of autism spectrum disorder. Through informed dietary changes, supported by ongoing research and clinical guidance, families can take meaningful steps toward improving both gastrointestinal and behavioral outcomes for children with ASD. Collaboration with healthcare providers ensures that these approaches are safe, effective, and customized to the individual—ultimately promoting a better quality of life and developmental progress. Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Disclaimer Views expressed above are the author's own.
