Bendy Brains: Hypermobility, Anxiety, and Neurodivergence with Dr. Jessica Eccles

In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes Dr. Jessica Eccles, a prominent consultant psychiatrist and researcher, to discuss her personal and professional experiences with hypermobility syndromes. Dr. Eccles shares insights from her extensive research on the links between hypermobility, anxiety, neurodevelopmental conditions, and chronic health issues such as fibromyalgia and ME/CFS. She explains how differences in brain structure and function, along with abnormal autonomic nervous system responses, can affect those with hypermobility. Dr. Eccles also introduces a novel treatment approach, the ADAPT therapy, designed to reduce anxiety in hypermobile individuals. The conversation highlights the importance of proper diagnosis, medical education, and innovative therapeutic strategies for managing these complex conditions.

00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks

00:35 Meet Dr. Jessica Echols

01:34 Dr. Echols' Personal Journey with Hypermobility

04:00 Discovering the Link Between Hypermobility and Anxiety

08:50 Exploring Brain Differences in Hypermobile Individuals

11:00 The Role of the Involuntary Nervous System

17:02 Novel Treatments and Future Research

21:05 Connections Between Hypermobility and Neurodivergence

35:45 Challenges and Future Directions in Medical Education

39:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts