Ep 23: Wired for Healing: ADHD, Autism, and the Science of Resilience with Dr. Robert Melillo

Host: Melie Williams
Guest: Dr. Robert Melillo, clinician, professor, brain researcher, and bestselling author of Disconnected Kids

If you’ve ever wondered how neurological conditions like ADHD or autism affect how we handle stress, relationships, or life transitions like divorce — this episode is for you. I’m joined by Dr. Robert Melillo, a leading expert in brain development and functional neurology, for a fascinating, deeply practical conversation about what’s really going on beneath the surface during moments of emotional overwhelm.

We explore the connection between early brain development and adult mental health, how movement impacts the brain, and why some kids seem to struggle more than others in chaotic or unstable environments — like during a divorce. Dr. Melillo also shares insight into why certain kids (and adults) are both gifted and challenged in surprising ways, and how understanding the brain can help us respond with more compassion and clarity.

Whether you're parenting a neurodiverse child or trying to better understand yourself or someone you love, this episode offers both science and support for the journey.

Key Takeaways:

• The brain is the command center for emotions, relationships, and reactions — understanding it changes everything.

• Up to 90% of mental health struggles originate in childhood, often tied to developmental delays or environmental stressors.

• There’s a fine line between genius and imbalance — many gifted individuals also experience significant challenges.

• A child’s right brain plays a major role in social skills and emotional regulation — and is especially vulnerable during times of instability.

• Strengths in one area of the brain often come with trade-offs — and recognizing that can shift how we support growth.

• Physical movement is one of the most powerful ways to stimulate healthy brain development.

• Neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to change) is real — and it’s never too late to create new patterns.

• Divorce can create significant instability, especially for kids with ADHD or autism — but understanding how their brains work can help.

• Awareness of brain function is one of the most empowering tools we have when navigating parenting, relationships, and recovery.

This is one of those episodes that helps make sense of why things feel so hard sometimes — and what you can do about it.

Check out Dr. Melillo’s book and work here: https://www.drrobertmelillo.com/didf/