Neurodivergence (ADHD, ASD, Executive Functioning Disorders, etc.)

Definition of Neurodivergence

Neurodivergent is not a medical term; rather, it’s a way to describe a person’s brain without using words like “normal” or “abnormal.” It’s important to refrain from using such terms because there is not a singular definition for how a normal brain works. Neurodivergent individuals are people who have differing mental or neurological functions from what is considered typical. This means they have different strengths and challenges than people whose brains don’t have those differences. I am one of these individuals.

The source of these conditions may be a product of Genetics, Trauma at birth, Infectious diseases, Immune disorders, Nutritional factors or Physical trauma. However, a person does not have to be diagnosed with a medical condition to be considered neurodivergent. While some people who are neurodivergent do have a medical condition that falls under that umbrella, there are times when a diagnosis has not been identified. Since many of those conditions share symptoms but present differently, there is usually a working diagnosis.

Recognizing Symptoms

Because so many neurodivergent conditions share symptoms, it’s common for individuals to have more than one condition. Symptoms may be present when a person has difficulties with organization, memory, concentration, time, direction, perception, sequencing, or listening. Therefore, it is important to have a process that includes three learning styles: auditory, visual, and kinesthetic.

Associated Conditions

At this point, you may be wondering, “What is considered a neurodivergent condition?” Some of the conditions include Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Bipolar disorder (BP), Anxiety disorder, Depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Personality Disorders, Tourette syndrome and other Neurodivergent conditions.

Overlapping and co-occurring conditions

Neurodivergent conditions can overlap and co-occur. For example, many people with ADHD or autism also have unusual sensory experiences and sensitivities. In addition, it’s not uncommon for people with ADHD to also be dyslexic, and many autistic people meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD.

Neurodiverse conditions can also occur alongside mental health issues, such as anxiety disorders and mood disorders.

When conditions overlap, the challenges you face may feel more numerous. Even receiving an accurate diagnosis and self-care plan can become more complicated. Challenges faced if you’re neurodivergent. Many neurodivergent people get the sense that society isn’t designed for them. Everything from social interactions to classroom structure to workplace environments can leave you feeling uncomfortable, isolated, and underrepresented.

Social challenges

If you’re neurodivergent, social stigma may seem to be an ever-present obstacle. Neurodivergent thinking and behavior often go against what society expects or deems as “good.” For example, some societies place a high value on being extroverted and focused. However, some people with autism may not be sociable, and people with ADHD can be distractible. Other people may try to define you by your deficits rather than your strengths.

Interpersonal interactions can also be daunting for neurodivergent people. You might feel isolated or lonely if others don’t share your hyper-fixation with a subject. Or you may feel anxious or frustrated when sensory sensitivities make it difficult to follow a conversation. You might even leave a social situation believing you would’ve been better off just staying home.

Educational challenges

Certain aspects of your condition might make it difficult to learn in a traditional classroom environment. Classmates chattering or bright lights can make it hard to focus on the lesson. The lesson itself may be presented in a way that’s difficult for you to understand. For example, written materials won’t be as useful if you are dyslexic. And teachers may not understand your needs or be willing to accommodate you. Seeing your peers progress through lessons while you struggle can be a frustrating experience.

Workplace challenges

Neurodivergent people tend to experience higher unemployment rates than their neurotypical counterparts. This could partially be due to employers often placing a high value on certain skills like communication, which might be a weak spot for someone with autism, ADHD, or Tourette syndrome. In fact, issues can crop up as early as the interview process. You may have an impressive knowledge of the field, for example, but have difficulty understanding the interviewer’s nonverbal cues.

Mental health considerations

Neurodivergent people are more likely to experience mental health challenges than neurotypicals. Some of this may be the result of trying to “mask” or camouflage your neurodivergent traits to better fit in. To some degree, this approach might be helpful. You may have been able to mask your way through an interview or other high-stakes social situation. But there’s some evidence that suppressing aspects of your identity can come with mental health consequences. Trying to hide your natural traits can be stressful and exhausting, and it’s lonely to think that no one seems to know the “real you.” All of this can lead to issues like anxiety, depression, or even suicidal ideation.

Some of the anxiety and depression may also be performance-based. If you have condition like dysgraphia, you may feel shame about your weaknesses. Or if you have ADHD, you may feel anxious about how difficult it is to succeed in a traditional classroom setting.

Despite the many challenges, it is possible to overcome hurdles, tap into your strengths, and thrive as a neurodivergent person.

Testing Accommodations

Neurodivergent individuals also tend to have issues related to learning, development, socialization and academic performance. Proper evaluations may identify cognitive challenges related to attention, concentration, and executive functioning that can impact reading rate, comprehension, and levels of distractibility. Neuropsychological and academic testing clarify the core causes of the academic issues demonstrated. Once appropriately diagnosed by a mental health professional, the client can provide the information to any work places, academic settings, and professional testing agencies for appropriate testing accommodations as per the Americans Disabilities Act.

Glossary of key terms:

• Neurodivergent - a person or group of people differing in mental or neurological function from what is considered 'typical' or 'normal'
• Neurotypical - a person or group of people with similar mental or neurological function to what is considered typical or 'normal'
• Neurodiverse - a group of people with wide ranging mental or neurological functions, including neurodivergent and neurotypical people.
• Reasonable Adjustments - changes an employer makes to remove barriers related to someone's disability or impairment
• Sensory Processing - how we receive, experience, interpret and react to (or ignore) information coming from our senses
• Executive Functioning - skills that you might use to manage everyday tasks - for example like, managing a calendar, problem solving and adapting to new situations