Neurodiversity

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Neurodiversity is a term used to describe a variation in normal human evolution which means some people think different to others.

Neurodiverse conditions include autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia, tourette syndrome and complex tic disorders, to name a few. Often conditions may overlap and an individual may have more than one neurodiverse condition.

Being neurodiverse means the person has different strengths and struggles from people whose brains develop or work more typically.

Neurodiverse individuals often face challenges that neurotypical people don’t. This may include challenges in the form of reading and writing, social interaction and communication, coordination and motor skills and learning disabilities.

Neurodivergence can also bring exceptional skills in some areas and often the ability to hyper focus, this can be described as a ‘super power’.

Most people are neurotypical, meaning that the brain functions and processes information in the way society expects. Therefore Neurodiverse individuals have to live in a world that is not kind for them. Not only could they face a lack of understanding at work, but also in their personal lives. As a result, they may feel unfulfilled with their lives and develop negative thoughts - or even depression.

It is estimated that around one in seven people (more than 15 per cent of people in the UK) are neurodivergent, meaning that the brain functions, learns and processes information differently.

According to the British Dyslexia Association, the number of individuals with dyslexia in the UK is around 10%, with 4% of population at the severe end of the dyslexia continuum.

The Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities reports that people with learning disabilities are more likely than the general population to experience depression as well. Many neurodivergent people have co-occurring mental health diagnoses like depression or anxiety.

However neurodiversity can be a strength and should be celebrated.

Neurodiversity brings different perspectives and opinions about problems and challenges at hand. Diversity in any sense should be seen as a strength.

Thinking differently helps with problem solving and innovation.

Therefore we need to support, nurture and celebrate neurodiverse individuals.

Please also recognise when someone maybe struggling with their mental health and support them. Be patient and be kind.