Neurodiversity

An exploration of how autism and ADHD may show up in everyday life

There are many ways to be human. Some of us move with vivid focus, deep sensitivity, or a strong need for structure. Some speak less but feel more. Others think in patterns, or experience energy and emotion in fast, intense waves.

Neurodiversity honours this variation. It describes the different ways our brains process, relate, and experience life. While every neurodivergent person is unique, common patterns often appear among autistic and ADHD individuals. These are not checklists or diagnoses, but ways to build recognition, understanding, and self-compassion.

Many people learn to “mask”—hiding stimming, sensory needs, or emotions to blend in or feel safe. Masking can protect, but it’s also draining, and over time may lead to anxiety or burnout. Sensory differences are also common: some experience the world as too loud, bright, or overwhelming; others seek more input—movement, pressure, repetition—to stay centred.

Social connection can be rewarding but also draining or confusing, especially in groups. Many prefer one-on-one or structured settings, value honesty and clarity, and may need recovery time after socialising. Thinking and communication styles can also differ—needing more time to respond, preferring writing or action over talk, feeling intensely but struggling to explain, or focusing deeply on a single topic.

For many, routines and predictability bring safety. Even small changes can feel disorienting, while repetition, scripting, or rituals provide comfort. Deep focus and passion often drive learning and creativity, though cycles of hyperfocus may be followed by exhaustion.

These differences are not flaws. They reflect a nervous system working hard to stay balanced in a complex world. Still, long-term masking or adapting can lead to neurodivergent burnout—exhaustion, sensitivity, shutdown, or loss of joy. Recovery takes time, rest, and the presence of people who truly understand.

Alongside challenges, neurodivergence also brings unique strengths: loyalty, creativity, humour, intuition, and fresh ways of seeing the world. At its heart, neurodiversity is a reminder that there is no single way to be human—and that difference deserves understanding and respect.

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Resources to Explore

If you’d like to learn more about neurodivergence, these external resources may be of interest:

• NeuroClastic – neuroclastic.com – Articles and insights from neurodivergent writers.AANE (Autism/Asperger Network) – aane.org – Support, education, and community for autistic people and their families.

• How to ADHD (YouTube) – youtube.com/@HowtoADHD – A practical and creative YouTube channel about ADHD.

• Dr. Devon Price – Author of Unmasking Autism