What Even Is Neurodiversity?

If you’ve ever felt like you don’t always fit in, like you’re somewhat different from the status quo, or have felt a bit lonely even in a room full of people, you’re not the only one.

In recent years, there’s been a growing push to embrace our differences, yet for those who are what’s considered neurodivergent, like myself, it’s not always as easy as that. 

From the classroom to the office, society is largely modeled around neurotypicals - meaning “typical” or the norm, which isn’t great for neurodivergence. Boo.

So, what is neurodivergence?

Before you have a red hot crack, it is not the final movie in the Divergent series or the final instalment in the dystopian novel series written by Veronica Roth.

Neurodivergence is the term for when someone's brain processes, learns or behaves differently from what is considered "typical". It can include Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), dyslexia and dyspraxia - just to name a few!

Though in the past it was often seen as a weakness, or a ‘defect’, it’s now seen as a completely valid variation on how individual people perceive and interact with the world in their own way. There’s no right or wrong way, just your way! 🌈

Mental health

Though neurodivergence is typically genetic or biological, it can also include people who suffer from sporadic or ongoing mental health issues  - like OCD, anxiety, and depression. As the world tends to be set up for neurotypicals, it can be tricky to navigate certain aspects of life - from the way in which we learn to time management to making friends. As a result, the education system, as well as the workplace, can create challenges - they are, after all, moulded around neurotypicals. 

I was diagnosed with ADHD and it wasn’t recognised until long after I'd left high school - this had an impact on my concentration, focus, the way I learn and the way I interact with people around me, and even my sense of self.  

I used to often think I was lazy, stupid and incapable of doing things ‘the right way’. This in turn led to mental health downward spiral of self-doubt - but once I had my diagnosis, I was able to figure out a way to learn, grow and interact with others in my own way and not feel bad about it! In fact, I’m flourishing. 

The acceptance of being you

Although being neurodivergent comes with a different set of challenges for each person, it also comes with a bunch of benefits. 

Oftentimes due to seeing the world differently, I experience intense emotions, have a curiosity that others might not experience, as well as being full of creativity, empathy, and child-like wonder. I connect with people easily, make them laugh and my impulsivity means I'll usually say what’s on peoples’ minds but they might be too afraid to say! Seeing the world differently is not a bad thing, it makes us human. It makes us interesting and it makes the world a richer place.

The future for neurodivergents

As society shifts its understanding of how the brain operates, the way we treat those who are neurodivergent will also change. In recent years, there is a lot of work that has been done to stop treating autism as an illness that must be cured. 

We have to embrace who we are, figure out our own path, live life our way - and not feel guilty about being a 'lil different. You’re you, and that’s pretty awesome!

*If you feel like you need some support, or want to chat about this kinda thing, reach out to a professional like your GP.