Neurodivergence isn’t something new. However, neurodivergent individuals are finally getting noticed, thanks to more research being published about what it means to be neurodivergent and how it can affect a person’s life.
While neurodivergence is often associated with autism or being on the spectrum, that isn’t always the case.
Being neurodivergent simply means that your brain works differently than what is considered typical. It doesn’t mean there is anything wrong with you. It just means that you process things differently.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the signs of neurodivergence, as well as the differences between being neurotypical and neurodivergent.
What Does It Mean to Be Neurodivergent?
When the differences in your brain affect how it actually works, you’re considered neurodivergent. Again, that doesn’t mean anything is wrong with you. In fact, many neurodivergent people excel in very specific areas. You might have an incredible memory, or you might be extremely good at math.
However, it’s also not uncommon for neurodivergent individuals to face certain challenges. You might deal with specific medical disorders or learning disabilities. You might even have trouble with social situations.
Researchers have coined the term neurotypical as a way to showcase individuals who have brains that work differently, but not abnormally. It’s important to keep in mind that there is no “normal” brain definition.
Possible Neurodivergent Conditions
Often, neurodivergent people are diagnosed with specific conditions that can help to make more sense of the way their brain works. Some of the most common include autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or sensory processing disorder.
People with different neurodivergent conditions might showcase different symptoms. However, some of the common signs of being neurodivergent include:
- Problems with communication and social interactions
- Difficulty following directions
- Trouble staying organized
- Concentration issues
- Extreme interest in a particular subject
If any of these signs sound familiar, there’s a good chance your brain is processing things differently than what is considered neurotypical. Consider working with your doctor or a mental health professional to receive an official diagnosis or to look more deeply into what you could be dealing with.
How Does Being Neurodivergent Affect Your Life?
It would be wrong to suggest that every neurodivergent person struggles through life. Your brain might process certain things differently, but that doesn’t mean you can’t live a successful, normal, fulfilling life. You might need more time for certain things, or you might need to be reminded to stay focused. You might even face certain social challenges that seem to come naturally for others.
But, for the most part, there’s no reason why you can’t work on combatting the negative issues while focusing on your strengths.
It can often be easier for a neurotypical person to keep an organized workstation and feel comfortable making new friends or talking to co-workers. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t achieve the same level of success if you’re neurodivergent.
What Can You Do?
If you’ve suspected that you have neurodivergent tendencies, the best thing you can do is get an official diagnosis. While there isn’t a medical test that can determine if you’re neurotypical or not, working with a doctor or mental health professional can help you make that determination.
When you work with a mental health specialist, you’ll also learn how to harness your strengths and overcome your challenges. You’ve likely been dealing with the struggles of neurodivergence since childhood. Being able to give those challenges a name while learning how to make them work for you can be empowering and freeing.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you feel like you might not be neurotypical. Don’t assume that you’re somehow incapable of things that a neurotypical person is, and don’t let any stigmas hold you back from getting the guidance and support you deserve.