What is Neurodiversity?
In general, we define neurodiversity or neurodivergency as a way of thinking that “diverges” from the “typical,” and diagnoses like Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) typically fall into this category. However, in my experience working with people, neurodivergency is much broader than a diagnosis and is much more common than we think because we don’t have a great working definition for what “neurotypical” is except for what societal norms name it as.
Experiencing neurodivergency could be anywhere from a traditional “diagnosis” to having characteristics that make it harder for you to process information, feel “normal,” or regulate your emotions. It could also look like having strong sensory aversions or becoming much more easily “burnt out” than your friends and family. Clumsiness or always losing your keys because you can’t remember where you put them could also be signs of neurodiversity. That all being said, there are also some great advantages to being neurodivergent, which vary from person to person. These could include exceptional creativity, abilities to sense and pick up on emotions quickly, or an uncanny ability to remember details on a subject you’re really interested in.
So all of this being said, how does this tie into therapy? Well, feeling “different” can often bring along with it a sense of feeling not good enough or like you don’t fit in. In reality, these “symptoms” have little to do with you and more to do with how our society expects someone to behave. Sitting still, organizing and prioritizing “to do” lists, and remaining present in the midst of busy background noises are things we as a society praise but ultimately end up making those of us who don’t “operate” this way feel like outcasts or “other.” Part of therapy then becomes exploring what unique elements of neurodiversity apply to us, advocating for and normalizing our differences, finding ways that work for YOU, and celebrating the skills and beauty of your own neurodiverse self.
All in all, if any of this sounds like something that resonate with you, I would love to help you process and explore more, so please feel free to reach out with questions, for resources, or to book an appointment. Additionally, here are a few ways to get started on your own, but know that there are so many more resources than just these! And if you’ve got some resources you love, please feel free to share!
ADHD:
Driven to Distraction by Hallowell and Ratey
Chadd.org
ASD:
Explorative, fun quiz: https://rdos.net/eng/Aspie-quiz.php
App for when someone experiencing autistic shutdown/nonverbal symptoms: https://www.upworthy.com/an-autistic-man-made-an-app-to-help-people-help-him-during-panic-attacks
ASD in Women: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/women-autism-spectrum-disorder/202104/10-primary-signs-autism-in-women