There are signs and symptoms which may be indicators of neurodivergence. As neurodivergence includes a wide variety of conditions, the signs and symptoms could vary greatly.
If you find yourself having difficulty with communication, socializing, or focusing on certain tasks, you may be neurodivergent. Neurodivergent people often experience struggles with acquiring new skills, memory recall and navigation, among other things.
Struggles with unwanted/intrusive thoughts, oversensitivity and/or a decreased ability to self-regulate emotions and behaviors – may be present in people who are neurodivergent.
If you are experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, it would be beneficial to explore and discuss them further with a qualified healthcare professional, such at a psychologist or psychiatrist. Professional help can be used to obtain a more definitive answer as to whether or not you may be neurodivergent.
What qualifies you to be neurodivergent?
Neurodivergence, which is defined as the state of having a brain that functions, learns, and processes information in ways that diverge significantly from the majority of the population, encompasses a broad range of neurological conditions and characteristics that can vary significantly between individuals.
Generally speaking, someone may be considered to be neurodivergent if they have been diagnosed with a neurological or psychological condition and/or exhibit certain behaviors associated with these conditions that are significantly different from the norm.
Such conditions can include autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Tourette Syndrome, and others. It is important to note that not everyone who is neurodivergent will have the same type or level of symptoms or behaviors.
Additionally, some people may qualify as being neurodivergent even if they have not been formally diagnosed with a condition.
How do you know if you’re neurodivergent?
It can be difficult to tell if you, or someone you know, is neurodivergent because there is no definitive test, and symptoms can range widely among those considered to be neurodivergent. However, there are some common signs to look out for if you think you or someone you know might be neurodivergent.
If you feel that you or someone you know might be neurodivergent, it is important to consider any unique challenges they may be facing that are caused by a difference in the way they think, feel or process information.
These may include difficulty with concentration, multitasking, communication, sensory processing, executive functioning, understanding social cues and more.
Additional indicators of neurodiversity are the presence of atypical cognitive traits and behaviors, such as high levels of creativity and non-conformity, individualized learning styles, intense interests or passions, anxiety, difficulty adjusting to changes, and difficulty with traditional school settings.
It is important to remember that each individual can display different signs of neurodiversity, and what is considered “typical” can vary from person to person. Therefore, if you are concerned that you or someone you know is neurodivergent, seeking professional help is essential in order to get a proper assessment and to begin treatment, if needed.
Additionally, talking to professionals and support groups who are familiar with neurodiversity may be a beneficial first step in discovering if someone is neurodivergent.
Does anxiety count as being neurodivergent?
Yes, anxiety is considered to be a type of neurodivergence. Neurodivergence is defined as a condition in which there are differences in the structure or function of a person’s brain. These types of differences can affect a person’s behavior, emotions and overall way of life.
Anxiety is considered a mental health disorder, which means that certain areas of the person’s brain and how they are connected are thought to be the cause of the anxiety. According to the American Psychiatric Association, anxiety is explained as a feeling of fear, distress, or uneasiness in response to something with an uncertain outcome.
Anxiety can also interfere with daily life and people can often feel overwhelmed by their thoughts or situations. As such, anxiety can be considered a form of neurodivergence. For diagnosis, treatment, and management of anxiety, it is best to consult a mental health professional.
Is anxiety and depression considered neurodivergent?
Yes, anxiety and depression are both considered neurodivergent. Neurodivergence is an umbrella term for a variety of neurological conditions and mental health disorders that impact the brain’s functioning.
This includes conditions such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Tourette Syndrome, and bipolar disorder. While anxiety and depression are not typically categorized as neurodivergent conditions on their own, they can be diagnosed and treated as part of a neurodivergence.
Anxiety and depression can both lead to significant changes in an individual’s thoughts, emotions, and behavior, and can have a serious impact on their quality of life. Many people with neurodivergence struggle with anxiety and depression, and understanding and managing these conditions is an important part of living with a neurodivergence.
What are neurodivergent traits in adults?
Neurodivergence is a broad term that is used to describe neurological conditions, such as autism, Dyspraxia, ADHD, Dyslexia and Tourette Syndrome. Neurodivergent individuals have distinct traits and ways of thinking, feeling and behaving, which can be seen in adults as well as children.
Characteristics of neurodivergence in adults may include difficulty engaging in social situations or difficulty regulating emotions; difficulty concentrating on tasks or difficulty with executive functioning skills; being rigid and structured in outlook or being overly detail-oriented; heightened awareness of environmental stimuli or impulsive behaviors.
In addition, adults may face multiple barriers related to their neurodiversity such as stigma and discrimination, insecurity in their identity, lack of accessible services and support, lack of knowledge about their condition, difficulty in finding and maintaining meaningful employment, and difficulty in forming and maintaining relationships.
As such, it is important to recognize and celebrate this diversity in our society and to create a shared understanding of neurodivergent traits, feelings and behaviors in order to foster inclusion and acceptance.
What mental illnesses are neurodivergent?
Neurodivergent individuals are often affected by one or more mental illnesses, which can range from mild to severe in intensity and duration. Neurodivergent mental illnesses include Autism Spectrum Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Tourette syndrome, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dyspraxia, Nonverbal Learning Disabilities (NVLD), learning disabilities, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, conduct disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and other related mental disorders.
Each mental illness experienced by a neurodivergent individual can affect their ability to function in independent daily life. For example, Autism Spectrum Disorders can cause difficulty regulating emotions and social communication, while Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder can cause difficulty with hyperactivity, impulsivity and attention.
Anxiety disorders can cause someone to become overwhelmed and easily triggered in certain situations. Bipolar disorder can cause extreme mood swings and impair a person’s judgement. Schizophrenia causes disordered thinking and can manifest in delusions, hallucinations and catatonia.
Treating neurodivergent mental illnesses typically involves a combination of therapies, medications and lifestyle changes. Depending on the symptoms and severity, treatment plans may include psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, support groups, lifestyle changes such as exercise, eating a nutritious diet, and learning stress-management techniques in addition to taking certain medications.
Treatment plans should be tailored to an individual’s needs and should involve the person’s participation in all aspects of the plan. It is important for neurodivergent individuals to be supported by a healthcare team of clinicians, doctors and close family or friends in order to receive the most effective treatment and care.
What are examples of neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is a term that is commonly used to refer to the broad spectrum of neurological conditions and variations in brain functioning- including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Tourette Syndrome, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and more.
Each individual experiences neurodiversity differently, though generally neurodiversity is understood as a mix of strengths, challenges and differential ways of thinking, learning and processing information.
Neurodiversity involves more than just disabilities and it also encompasses conditions that are considered to be normative variations in brain functioning.
Given the wide range of neurological conditions and variations in processing, here are some examples of neurodiversity:
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): ASD is a developmental disorder that impacts communication, behavior, and social skills. People with autism spectrum disorder experience difficulty understanding nonverbal communication, engaging in social interactions and understanding social cues.
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): People with ADHD have difficulty with focusing, paying attention and controlling impulses and often display inattentive, hyperactive and impulsive behavior.
• Dyslexia: Dyslexia is a learning disorder characterized by difficulty understanding written language. The difficulty may manifest as difficulty reading, difficulty spelling, difficulty with understanding new concepts and difficulty with writing.
People with dyslexia may experience difficulty with decoding written words, reversing words and numbers, manipulating sounds and understanding the meaning of what they read.
• Dyscalculia: Dyscalculia is a learning disorder characterized by difficulty with understanding math. Those with dyscalculia may experience difficulty with counting, memorizing math facts, recalling sequences, performing basic math functions, and understanding higher-level math concepts.
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD): OCD is an anxiety disorder characterized by repetitive behaviors and thoughts. People with OCD may experience an intense urge to complete certain tasks, such as washing hands or checking multiple times, to the point of interfering with their daily activities.
• Tourette Syndrome: Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary motor and vocal tics. Motor tics involve repetitive or sudden movements and vocal tics involve making sounds, such as coughing, throat-clearing or snorting.
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: PTSD is an anxiety disorder that is triggered by a traumatic event, such as war, natural disasters or living through a loss. People with PTSD experience symptoms such as intrusive thoughts and memories, nightmares, flashbacks, difficulty sleeping, difficulty focusing, and hyper-arousal.
• Auditory Processing Disorder: Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is a type of learning disability where people have difficulty understanding verbal information. This can manifest in difficulty with decoding and understanding speech, difficulties in following directions, and problems with localizing and recognizing sounds.
Neurodiversity encompasses a range of unique neurological differences and strengths, and is a concept that celebrates each individual’s neurological makeup. Neurodiversity should be celebrated and embraced in order to create an inclusive society that values and recognizes the benefits of neurodiversity.
Can you get tested for neurodivergent?
Yes, neurodivergent conditions can be diagnosed through a variety of tests and assessments. Depending on the neurodivergent condition, a clinician may use a combination of tests, including neurological and psychological assessment, standardized questionnaires, and cognitive functioning tests to screen for neurodivergent conditions.
These tests are designed to evaluate an individual’s behavior, executive functioning, learning and thinking processes, and communication skills. Such assessments may lead to screening for conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyscalculia, and other related conditions.
Testing can also identify markers for functioning in real-world settings, such as communication needs and task-oriented abilities. Finally, such testing can assist in developing a tailored therapeutic plan to support the individual’s mental and physical health.
Is being neurodivergent rare?
Being neurodivergent is not particularly rare, as it is estimated that around 1 in every 5 people have at least some form of neurological difference. Neurodivergence is commonly seen as a spectrum, and due to its wide range of expressions, can be difficult to accurately measure.
It is highly likely that a significant majority of the population has some level of neurodivergence, ranging from mild to more severe forms.
Neurodivergence can present itself in various ways, depending on the type and severity of the condition, so it can be hard to pinpoint an exact figure of those that are neurodivergent. Considering that there is no single definition or measurement of neurodivergence, the exact rarity of this condition is hard to measure.
Is neurodivergent a form of autism?
Yes, neurodivergent is a term used to describe differences in how people think and learn — differences that can be typical of people on the autism spectrum. Neurodivergence is typically used to describe people who have autism, but also includes people with dyslexia, dyspraxia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and other conditions.
Neurodivergence is typically seen as a positive term because it helps to reduce stigma and encourages people to see the strengths and unique qualities that come with each individual’s differences. Neurodivergence can encompass a wide range of traits, including social difficulties, sensory sensitivity, difficulty with executive functioning and communication, repetitive behaviors, narrow interests, and other challenges.
Some people who have autism may not identify as neurodivergent, however, as the terms are not applied universally. Neurodivergent people are often thought to have untapped potential and talents that come with their differences and could benefit from specialized support and understanding.
Is neurodivergent a mental disability?
No, neurodivergent is not a mental disability. Neurodivergence is an umbrella term that describes difficulty with social, communication, and behavior that does not meet the traditional standards of a neurotypical person.
It includes conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and other neurological conditions that can affect how a person interacts with their environment and how they look at the world. While it is often associated with mental health issues, it is not itself a mental disability, but instead a way of seeing the world differently.
Many times, the difficulties a person experiences due to neurodivergence can be managed if they are given the proper tools and support. Neurodivergence should not be seen as a disability or a condition to be cured, but instead as a unique way in which a person experiences and perceives the world.
How do I know if I’m on the spectrum?
If you think you may be on the spectrum, it is a good idea to seek out a mental health professional or doctor to discuss your concerns. In order to diagnose ASD, a professional will typically consider factors such as the individual’s medical history and family history, behavioural observations, as well as psychological evaluations.
The professional may also observe the individual’s response to various questions, tasks and activities. It is also helpful to determine if there are other social and developmental conditions present in addition to ASD.
If a professional does determine that you are on the spectrum, they will likely be able to develop a personalized plan to help you make positive strides in the areas of communication, relationships, and daily living skills.
Do you have to be diagnosed as neurodivergent?
No, you do not have to be diagnosed as neurodivergent in order to be considered neurodivergent. Neurodivergence is an umbrella term used to describe a wide range of brain processes and behaviors that involve different thinking styles, learning styles, and communication styles.
While some individuals may choose to be formally diagnosed with conditions such as autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, or sensory processing disorder to understand the impact their neurodivergence has on their life, others may simply identify with neurodiversity or neurodivergence as a way of better understanding their neurology and their experience in the world.
Ultimately, an individual does not have to have a diagnosis to validly identify as neurodivergent.
Am I Neurodiverse or neurodivergent?
The terms “neurodiverse” and “neurodivergent” describe people who have neurological conditions that vary from the “neurotypical” brain. Neurodiversity refers to the diversity of brains and nervous systems that each individual has and how they process information and experience the world.
Neurodivergence is a form of neurodiversity that involves more pronounced differences in the way someone thinks and processes information. Neurodiversity is an umbrella term that encompasses a range of conditions, such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette Syndrome, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
To determine whether or not you may be neurodiverse or neurodivergent, it is important to first understand yourself and your unique brain. Consider if you have difficulty with tasks that come easily to most people, or if you experience life differently from the majority of people in a way that has caused challenges for you.
If this is the case, it is possible that you may be neurodivergent.
If you are interested in exploring your uniqueness, it is important to seek a mental health professional such as a psychologist or a psychiatrist who specializes in neurodiversity. They can help you identify your individual needs and provide you with the tools and strategies to help you thrive.
It is also important to remember that there is no single definition of neurodiversity, and it is essential to recognize that neurological differences are natural and normal, and should be embraced and celebrated.
