Neurodiversity
- The Grove Psychology Practice
- Apr 16
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 2
An exploration of how autism and ADHD may show up in everyday life
There are so many ways to be human.
Some of us move through the world with vivid focus, deep sensitivity, or a strong need for structure and meaning. Some of us speak less but feel more. Some think in pictures or patterns. Others feel like their energy or emotions arrive in waves—fast, intense, and hard to explain.
Neurodiversity is a word that honours this natural variation. It describes the different ways our brains process, relate, learn, and experience life.
While every neurodivergent person is unique, certain patterns often emerge—especially among those who identify as autistic, ADHDers, or both. This article explores some of those patterns. Not as a checklist or diagnosis, but as a way to support recognition, understanding, and self-compassion.
Hiding to Belong (Masking)
Many neurodivergent people learn to “mask” their differences—consciously or unconsciously—in order to blend in, meet expectations, or stay safe.
Masking can be protective, but it can also be draining. It might look like:
Hiding stimming, sensory needs, or emotions
Imitating social behaviours to avoid standing out
Over-preparing or over-performing in social settings
Avoiding asking for help, even when struggling
Over time, masking can lead to burnout, anxiety, or feeling like you’re never quite being your full self.
Sensory Sensitivity & Seeking
Some people experience the world as too bright, loud, itchy, or intense. Others seek more sensory input—movement, pressure, repetition—to feel calm and centred.
Sensory differences might show up as:
Strong aversions to sound, light, clothing textures, or smells
A need for movement, pressure, or specific sensory rituals
Overwhelm in crowds or busy spaces
Deep comfort in familiar sounds, textures, or visual patterns
These aren’t overreactions. They’re the nervous system’s way of communicating what it needs to stay regulated.
Social Energy & Connection
Being neurodivergent doesn’t mean lacking empathy or interest in others. But social interaction may feel:
Draining or confusing—especially in groups
Easier in structured or one-on-one settings
Shaped by a desire for honesty, clarity, or shared interests
Overwhelming when filled with small talk or unspoken rules
Some people love connection but need recovery time after. Others may avoid socialising due to past misattunement—not because they don’t care, but because it’s safer.
Different Ways of Thinking & Communicating
Neurodivergent people often process and express things differently. That might look like:
Needing time to think before responding
Communicating more easily through writing, art, or action
Feeling things intensely but struggling to explain them
Jumping between topics—or focusing deeply on one area
These communication styles aren’t less valid. They just ask for space, patience, and a willingness to listen in new ways.
Structure as Safety (Routines & Transitions)
For many neurodivergent people, routines offer clarity and grounding. Changes—even small ones—can be disorienting. You might notice:
A strong need to plan ahead or avoid surprises
Distress when routines are disrupted
Difficulty shifting between tasks or environments
Reliance on repetition, scripting, or rituals for comfort
This isn’t about being inflexible. It’s often about needing predictability in a world that can feel chaotic.
Deep Focus, Deep Meaning
Many neurodivergent people thrive when immersed in topics that spark passion or curiosity. This interest-led focus can show up as:
Intense fascination with specific areas (“special interests”)
Cycles of hyperfocus followed by mental or physical exhaustion
A strong need for meaning, purpose, or real engagement
This isn’t a lack of motivation. It’s a different relationship to energy and attention.
Burnout That Runs Deep
Neurodivergent burnout isn’t just about doing too much. It can come from years of masking, adapting, or being misunderstood.
You might experience:
Exhaustion, irritability, or increased shutdown
Loss of interest in things that once brought joy
Trouble managing daily demands or small changes
Emotional numbness or heightened sensitivity
Recovery takes time. It often includes rest, boundaries, sensory regulation, and connection with people who truly get it.
A Note on Identity
Neurodivergence isn’t just about challenges—it’s also about depth, creativity, and difference. Many autistic and ADHD people describe:
Fierce loyalty and emotional intensity
Unique ways of seeing patterns, fairness, or detail
Deep intuition or abstract thinking
Creativity, humour, or imaginative problem-solving
A strong desire for authenticity and meaning
Being neurodivergent may come with real challenges—but also real strengths. And being understood can make all the difference.
If this post resonates, you might like to explore more about:
There’s no one way to be neurodivergent—and no single path through the world. But support is available to help you or your child feel more understood, resourced, and seen.
Disclaimer
This page shares general reflections and resources related to neurodiversity. It’s not a substitute for personalised assessment, diagnosis, or therapeutic advice. Every neurodivergent experience is different. If you’re seeking clarity or support, a practitioner who works affirmatively with neurodiverse individuals can walk alongside you at your own pace.
Some links in this post lead to external resources that others have found helpful. These are shared for information only, and I can’t guarantee their content or approach will be the right fit for everyone. Trust your judgment, and take what’s useful.
Resources to Explore
NeuroClastic – neuroclastic.com
AANE (Autism/Asperger Network) – aane.org
How to ADHD (YouTube) – youtube.com/@HowtoADHD
Dr. Devon Price – Author of Unmasking Autism
