One of my values as a therapist and a human is to honor and respect the individuality and uniqueness of each and every person. I’m also aware of how much easier it is to notice and celebrate uniqueness that is comfortable and familiar to me than otherwise. As a result, I’ve been on something of a mission over the past year or so to explore and educate myself about the depth and breadth of human neurodiversity. My first and biggest takeaway? I knew a whole lot less than I thought I did.

My son recently worked on a presentation about nuclear energy (4th graders do alot more these days than they used to!) and part of his presentation includes a vocabulary list so I’ll take his lead and start there.

According to Google,

Neurodiversity (noun): the range of differences in individual brain function and behavioral traits, regarded as part of normal variation in the human population (used especially in the context of autistic spectrum disorders).

Neurodivergent (adjective): differing in mental or neurological function from what is considered typical or normal (frequently used with reference to autistic spectrum disorders); not neurotypical.

You’ll note that both definitions referenced Autism but don’t let that suggestive wording result in boundaries that don’t truly exist. Some examples of neurodivergent conditions that fall under the umbrella of neurodiversity also include ADHD, dyslexia, introversion/extroversion, and bipolar disorder, among others. People with these diagnoses may have atypical ways of processing information or interacting with the world around them, but these differences are not inherently "good" or "bad". Rather, they simply represent different ways of being and are normal and valuable parts of humanity.

It's important to note that neurodiversity is not the same thing as a disorder. While certain conditions may present challenges or require high level accommodations, this does not mean that neurodivergent individuals are inherently flawed or broken. Rather, it is societal norms and expectations that can create barriers to success for individuals with atypical brain function.

Unfortunately, many people view neurodivergence through a deficit-based lens, focusing only on the challenges and limitations associated with these conditions. Academic institutions, workplaces, even service industries generally aren’t equipped to handle the unique needs neurodiverse persons may have. None of these settings typically accommodate for neurodivergence in a way that allows people whose brains work atypically to be successful. This doesn’t mean that accommodations don’t exist or that structures can’t change, but that first, there has to be awareness and second, there has to be an appetite to shake things up and endure the discomfort that change can elicit. The situation as it is currently generally places the onus upon neurodivergent persons to somehow force themselves to fit their square pegs into the world’s round holes, harm to self be damned. This can lead to feelings of shame, self-doubt, and isolation for individuals who are neurodivergent, as well as perpetuate harmful stereotypes and discrimination.

However, by embracing the concept of neurodiversity, we can begin to shift our focus to the strengths and unique perspectives that neurodivergent individuals bring to the table. For example, individuals with autism may have exceptional attention to detail or problem-solving skills, while those with ADHD may excel at being creative and coming up with “out of the box” solutions.

By recognizing and celebrating neurodiversity, we can create a more inclusive and accepting society that values the contributions of all individuals, regardless of their neurotype. This means embracing neurodiversity in the workplace, in schools, and in our communities as a whole.

If you are neurodivergent or love someone who is, it's important to remember that your differences are not weaknesses, but rather strengths that should be celebrated. And if you are struggling to embrace your neurodivergent identity, therapy can be a helpful tool for processing difficult emotions and nurturing self-affirmation. You are not alone - there is a community of people out there who celebrate neurodiversity and all the innovative and creative perspectives and talents it brings to the table. You are unique, you are valuable, and you have so much to offer the world.

For more information about our practice, don’t hesitate to contact us, we can help.