What does Neurodivergent mean?
Neurodivergence isn’t a single condition, it’s an umbrella term covering a range of neurotypes. Often it’s used to describe Autism or ADHD but it can also include dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette’s and sometimes mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or trauma-related conditions like PTSD.
In essence it’s a term used to describe anyone whose brain is wired differently to what is commonly considered the majority or “Neurotypical.”
Does being neurodivergent mean you’re broken?
No, absolutely not!
It’s just a way of describing different ways that different brains work.
Think of it like musical instruments, they all make beautiful music but sound very different, but they’re all needed to play a symphony because when they come together they make something beautiful. This equally true for people and your wonderful brain deserves to take its place in the symphony of the human experience too.
Strengths
For many finding their neuro-identity helps them to understand their challenges, celebrate their strengths and connect with people who share similar experiences.
Knowing your neurotype can help you to identify, understand and work with your challenges as well as your strengths. Some people choose to get a formal diagnosis, while others feel comfortable self-identifying. Both have their pros and cons and its important to do what feels right to you.
Challenges
Every neuro-type whether neurotypical or neurodivergent, experience strengths and challenges. The difference is that the world and systems we live in are often designed around neurotypical ways of thinking. This can create challenges for neurodivergent people, not because of their brains, but because the environment doesn’t always meet their needs. It’s a bit like asking a fish to live on land and a dog to live under water, they’re not set up for success in the wrong environment but put them in the right one and both can thrive.
How Counselling can help
Counselling is a place to be accepted as you are, not to be fixed or changed. It’s a space where your feelings and experiences are understood and validated. Counselling can help you understand yourself, develop self-compassion and awareness, learn to set healthy boundaries, manage anxiety, understand your sensory needs and break the burnout cycle.
If you’re a neurodivergent person or couple, or questioning your neuro-identity you’re very welcome to get in touch to book a free short call to discuss how I can help or book your first session.
I hope that wherever you are on your journey of self-discovery that you've found something useful to take away from this post today.