Neurodiversity And Mental Health: Supporting The Neurodiverse

As a result, self-esteem among neurodivergent individuals is statistically lower than among the general population, which can be further exacerbated by higher rates of comorbid mental health conditions among this population. Read on to find out more about neurodivergence, why it’s sometimes associated with self-esteem issues, and what neurodivergent people can do to boost their own levels.

The term “neurodivergent” was coined by Australian sociologist Judy Singer in 1998. It’s simply intended to describe people whose brains work differently than what is considered a “standard,” or normal brain—which can manifest as subtle differences or significant variations, since neurodivergence is a spectrum. Similarly, the word “neurodiversity” refers to the idea that people’s brains can work in a variety of ways. This can encompass those with autistic traits or who are on the autistic spectrum, those with neurodevelopmental differences, and those with learning differences or learning disabilities.

Singer pointed out that people with such brain differences are often unfairly marginalized. The only thing separating them from “neurotypical” people, she argued, is that neurodivergent individuals view, experience, and interact with the world in ways that are different from what is often considered to be “typical.” In other words, they can be considered neurological minorities. The neurodiversity paradigm suggests that those who are neurotypical may never be able to understand the experiences of those who are neurodivergent, such as those in the autism community and those with neurodevelopmental conditions.

The neurodiversity movement is a social justice movement, advocating for the rights and acceptance of all individuals—regardless of their neurology. It seeks to promote equality and challenge the idea that being “neurotypical” is the only way to be and instead embraces the diversity of brain functioning. Embracing neurodiversity and this movement can help to create an inclusive environment in which people whose brain works differently are valued and respected and where everyone—no matter what their “type” may be—can flourish and enjoy rewarding social relationships rather than experiencing social exclusion.

Autism Spectrum, ADHD, and common forms of neurodiversity

The term “neurodiversity” means there are many ways to be neurodivergent, and the level of neurodivergence often exists on a spectrum or scale. These human brain differences usually take the form of developmental disorders or other conditions. Some of the most common include:

Conditions involving neurodiversity, a word used to explain the unique ways people’s brains work

• Dyslexia, which manifests as difficulty reading as a result of problems identifying the sounds associated with letters and words
• Dyscalculia, which is similar to dyslexia, but for math and number-based information rather than letters and words  
• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which usually manifests as different ways of learning, interacting socially, paying attention, and moving, and may also be characterized by a narrow range of intense interests and repetitive behaviors
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which can manifest as trouble paying attention, hyperactivity, or a combination of both
• Dyspraxia, a developmental disorder that affects movement and coordination
• Tourette syndrome (sometimes called Tourette’s syndrome), a nervous system condition characterized by physical and vocal tics, or sudden, involuntary, repeated movements

Some individuals may even have more than one condition or mental illness, such as having ADHD and also autism spectrum disorder, social anxiety, eating disorders, or personality disorders. Each of these can affect an individual in different ways in terms of mood, learning abilities, attention, communication, socializing, and mental health, and it can sometimes be challenging to get a formal diagnosis for these conditions, which may lead some to self-identify as autistic people. 

The importance of embracing neurodiversity in mental health

For some autistic individuals and other neurodivergent people, the impact is minor and almost unnoticeable. For others, these conditions and disorders can cause great difficulties or hardships. Sometimes, these difficulties are largely based on stigma against people with autism, people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or other neurodiverse individuals, thus leading to them not being able to seek care or struggling with mental health issues. This underlines the importance of a neurodiversity movement, which you can explore on various social media platforms where many autistic adults and other neurodivergent individuals are spreading awareness. In addition, some businesses and colleges, such as Syracuse University, have started neurodiversity projects to better serve neurodivergent individuals and foster each individual’s ability to thrive. Harvard Business Review even published an article about the ways in which neurodiversity can be an advantage.

According to a study done by Deloitte, work teams that include neurodivergent professionals can be 30% more productive than those without them. Depending on the type and level, these individuals have also been shown to be more creative and better at problem-solving and understanding patterns than neurotypical people tend to be. Finally, their way of experiencing the world can simply bring diversity and a unique perspective to the table, which can be valuable in any setting. In other words, neurodivergent people have a lot to contribute. 

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

1. Study participants with autism reported “significantly lower” power and self-esteem than neurotypical individuals
2. Higher self-esteem was predicted in an autistic person by more “positive self-appraisals,” including an emphasis on more perceived benefits and lower levels of helplessness
3. Global self-esteem was “significantly and positively associated” with an individual’s perception of their own giftedness, emotional resilience, and power

In addition, neurodivergent people themselves can try the following tips to help increase their own self-esteem, and the loved ones in their lives can support them in these practices.

Shift your perspective

One article describes neurodiversity as “a competitive advantage,” discussing how neurodivergence can result in “higher-than-average abilities” and special skills in areas like pattern recognition, memory, or math along with uniquely creative approaches to tasks and problems. Focusing on the ways in which your neurodivergence can be beneficial to you and/or others may help you build self-esteem. 

Find community and role models

See a therapist who has experience with neurodiversity and mental health expertise