What Does It Mean To Be Neurodivergent?

Neurodivergence is nothing new. However, you’ve probably heard the term more often over the last decade or so. This is largely due to the fact that doctors and researchers are developing a better understanding of what it actually means to be neurodivergent. Many are becoming better educated to support their neurodivergent clients or are neurodivergent themselves (hello, it’s US!).

As a result, more people are getting the diagnoses they deserve, so they can best understand themselves, their support needs, and how to navigate a world that is not always neurodivergent friendly. The more people understand about being neurodivergent, the less weight any stigmas will hold. 

Simply put, being neurodivergent means that your brain works differently than what is considered “typical” in textbooks. However, it also acknowledges that differences in human cognition are normal. Being neurodivergent doesn’t somehow make you “less;” it makes you, you. Your brain works outside, on top of, below and to the left, in outer space of “the box”, however, you’d like to put it, but your neurodiversity makes you unique and that is radical.

Common diagnoses Within the Neurodivergent realm

Any diagnosed condition caused by different processing methods could cause you to be considered neurodivergent. However, there are a few conditions that are more often associated with neurodivergence, these include ADHD and autism. 

If you’ve ever heard of either of these conditions on “a spectrum”, that’s because neurodivergence can impact people differently. Although that is also a common misconception because people are not linear. Neurodivergence actually looks more like waves in a circle, with strengths and weaknesses in certain areas. This can sometimes make it hard to properly diagnose and understand.

Signs of Being Neurodivergent

Again, because there’s a wide array strengths and needs within the population, there are a variety of signs that might suggest someone is neurodivergent. However, some of the common indicators include: 

• Communication and social interaction needs

• Organizational needs

• Hyperfocusing or lack of focus

• Sensory information processing needs

Neurodivergent people might also like to complete specific behaviors or routines daily, or immerse themselves in very specific hobbies or activities. It’s also not uncommon for people with any kind of neurodivergence to need communication supports or have felt the need to mask for many years. This can lead to stress, anxiety, and burn out.

Getting a Formal Diagnosis

If any of the experiences above sound familiar, consider talking to your doctor about getting an evaluation for what you’re feeling and experiencing. Often, neurodivergent signs show up in children at an early age and more kids are getting diagnosed today than in generations past; which is creating a generation of children and teens who learn to advocate early for the supports they would like. But, age doesn’t matter. No matter how long you or your child have been exhibiting these signs, it’s never too late to get diagnosed.

A diagnosis is the first step toward self realization, finding your community, and knowing what you need in your daily life to support your goals and dreams.

Once you have a clearer picture, you can create a world around you that is supportive of your needs.

What Are the Next Steps?

After receiving a neurodivergent diagnosis, don’t be afraid to open up about it. Share the information with family members and friends. If your child has been diagnosed, talk to them about it before opening up to others. 

Talking about neurodivergence continues to help with breaking the stigma. People can make adjustments based on the needs of you or your child.

Additionally, don’t hesitate to get help and support. There are medications for certain conditions, like ADHD, but, therapy is often the best way to support a neurodivergent mind. A therapist can help you (or your child) come up with a strategies to support your neurodivergent experience and lead a healthy, happy life. Reach out to learn more about neurodiversity affirming therapy.