What Does Neurodivergent Mean?

The term "neurodivergent" describes people whose brains function and process information differently. It is a non-medical umbrella term that refers to the diversity in mental functioning within the human population. The neurodiversity movement embraces neurodiversity, acknowledging that the variations in human brain functions are completely natural and that there is no single "correct" way of thinking, learning, and fostering mental health. 

Continue reading to find out what neurodivergence means and what the common traits of neurodivergent people are.  

What does it mean to be neurodivergent? 

The term "neurodivergent" describes people whose thinking patterns, behavioral traits, and learning styles vary from what's considered "typical." This concept describes the many differences in the cognitive functioning of human beings and considers them all valid and equal. Because the brain develops and functions differently, neurodivergent individuals may face unique challenges and have special strengths. Neurodivergence is not a mental illness but may be associated with intellectual disabilities or developmental conditions.  

What does neurotypical mean? 

Neurotypical people are individuals whose brains function similarly to those of most of their peers. In other words, they think, learn, and behave in a manner that would be considered "normal" by the general population. 

Is neurodivergence a disability or mental illness? 

Neurodivergence does not equate to a learning disorder or weakness. This concept helps us realize that any differences in brain function aren't inherently wrong or problematic. In other words, being neurodivergent isn't necessarily a disability. 

However, it is crucial to acknowledge that many neurodivergent people can also have developmental disorders or chronic mental health illnesses that affect how they live. This may mean they require special accommodations at their workplace or school to help them function at their best. 

Why is the term "neurodivergent" used? 

Essentially, the term “neurodiversity” is used to help people who are neurodivergent realize that, while they have brain differences, they are not disabled or defective. This gives the neurodivergent community a brighter outlook and beckons them to have bigger ambitions and set higher goals for themselves. It also encourages them to think about ways they can harness their unique cognitive differences for their own advantage. For example, a person with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may struggle to focus on boring and repetitive tasks. But turning a mundane activity into a game might help them tune into their ability to hyperfocus, allowing them to zero in on the task until it is completed. 

Neurodivergent traits, characteristics, and signs 

The way neurodiversity presents itself in an individual depends on the neurological differences the person has. In general, these traits can either become challenges or strengths.  

Challenging traits and symptoms 

A neurodivergent person may notice that they struggle with some of the following symptoms:

• Learning disabilities that affect how they read, write, or perform calculations

• Difficulty with focus, memory, or self-control 

• A lack of social skills and difficulty reading body language

• Speech difficulties and trouble with social communication

• Difficulty controlling emotional responses

• Tendency to become overstimulated by their surroundings, like loud noises

• Repetitive behaviors and movements, like rocking in their seat or tapping their feet

Neurodivergent traits that are helpful and advantageous 

Because the brain works differently, neurodivergent individuals might possess unique strengths. These include the following: 

• Capability to think outside the box

• Creative imagination and great curiosity 

• Great attention to detail 

• High sense of empathy and compassion

• Ability to hyperfocus when motivated

• Excelling in specific areas of learning 

Of course, these traits are unique to each individual. Even people who have the same mental health condition will show signs and symptoms that differ from one person to another.

What conditions may a neurodivergent person have? 

There isn't an official medical list of the conditions considered neurodivergent. That said, many forms of neurodivergence are listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), a professional handbook that guides the diagnosis of mental health conditions. 

Some developmental disorders that may affect a neurodivergent individual include the following: 

• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) 

• Autism spectrum disorder

• Dysgraphia (difficulty with writing)

• Dyslexia (difficulty with reading)

• Dyscalculia (difficulty with math)

• Dysarthria (speech difficulties)

• Down syndrome 

• Certain mental health conditions, including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder 

• Synesthesia (described as the blending of the body's senses) 

• Tourette's syndrome

• Williams syndrome

Is neurodivergence genetic? 

Neurodiversity is typically associated with both genetic and environmental factors. Some cases of neurodiversity are heavily reliant on genetic factors. For example, ADHD is one condition that has a strong genetic link, and parents may pass down the genes for ADHD to their children. Autism spectrum disorder also tends to run in families. Autistic people generally inherit a higher risk of experiencing the condition. 

How will I know if I am neurodivergent? 

If you've noticed how you think or learn affects your daily activities, it's best not to do a self-diagnosis. Instead, seek the advice of a medical professional. They can help you assess and diagnose any existing neurological conditions. 

Your healthcare professional may ask you about the symptoms you experience. They might also talk to your family members or people who know you well to understand your neurodevelopmental conditions and developmental history comprehensively. Behavioral rating scales can help medical professionals recognize neurodivergent traits in order to diagnose and gauge the severity of various neurodivergent disorders. 

Is it possible to cure or treat neurodiversity? 

Neurodiversity is when someone's brain processes information differently and develops differently from their peers. Thus, it isn't possible to cure, prevent, or treat neurodiversity. 

However, many adults who consider themselves neurodivergent might have mental illnesses and other mental health conditions that can be treated with medications or therapy. For example, a person with ADHD might be recommended stimulant medications and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

If a medical diagnosis has been made, you can seek treatment to manage or reduce your symptoms. This is especially important if the condition affects your career, education, relationships, or daily activities. Getting the right support and treatment for this developmental disorder is often life-changing and empowers you to unlock your greatest potential and achieve your goals in life.