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Neurodiversity

Updated: Apr 16

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


Neurodiversity is a natural part of human variation. It describes the different ways our brains process, learn, relate, and experience the world. While every person is unique, some common patterns emerge in people with neurodivergent traits—including those who are autistic, ADHDers, or both.


This resource names a few of those patterns. Not as a checklist or definition, but as a way to support recognition, understanding, and self-compassion.


Masking or Camouflaging

Many neurodivergent people learn to “mask” their differences in order to blend in, stay safe, or meet expectations. This can look like:


  • Hiding stimming, sensory needs, or emotions

  • Imitating social behaviours to avoid standing out

  • Over-preparing or over-performing in social situations

  • Avoiding asking for help, even when overwhelmed


Masking can be protective—but also exhausting. Over time, it can contribute to anxiety, burnout, or feeling like you’re never quite being your full self.


Sensory Differences

Some people experience the world as too loud, bright, itchy, or intense. Others seek more sensory input to feel calm and grounded. Sensory differences might show up as:


  • Strong aversions to noise, clothing textures, or lighting

  • A need for movement, pressure, or specific sensory routines

  • Overwhelm in busy places or crowds

  • Deep comfort in certain sounds, textures, or visual patterns


These responses aren’t overreactions—they’re the nervous system communicating its needs.


Social Energy & Connection

Being neurodivergent doesn’t mean lacking empathy or interest in others. But social interactions might feel:


  • Draining or confusing, especially in large groups

  • Easier in structured or one-on-one settings

  • Shaped by a need for clarity, honesty, or shared interests

  • Overwhelming if filled with small talk or unspoken rules


Some people love connection but need recovery time after. Others may avoid socialising due to past hurt or misattunement—not because they don’t care.


Processing & Communication Styles

People process and express ideas in many different ways. You—or your child—might:


  • Need time to think before responding

  • Communicate more easily through writing, art, or action

  • Feel things intensely but struggle to explain them

  • Jump between topics or focus deeply on one area


These styles aren’t less valid—just different. What matters is creating space to be heard and understood.


Routine, Transition & Predictability

For some, routines create a sense of safety and clarity. Changes or transitions—even small ones—can be unsettling. You might notice:


  • A strong need to plan ahead or avoid surprises

  • Distress when routines are disrupted

  • Difficulty shifting focus between tasks or environments

  • Reliance on repetition, scripting, or rituals for comfort


This isn’t about inflexibility—it’s often about regulating uncertainty in a world that can feel unpredictable.


Interest-Led Thinking

Many neurodivergent people thrive when deeply engaged in areas of passion or curiosity. This might look like:


  • Intense focus on specific topics (aka “special interests”)

  • Difficulty engaging with things that feel irrelevant or boring

  • Cycles of hyperfocus followed by exhaustion

  • A strong need for meaningful or purposeful activity


This isn’t a lack of motivation—it’s a different relationship to energy and attention.


Burnout & Emotional Fatigue

Burnout isn’t just about doing too much—it can be the result of constantly navigating a world that misunderstands or overwhelms you. Signs may include:


  • Increased exhaustion, irritability, or shutdown

  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities

  • Trouble coping with small changes or everyday demands

  • Emotional sensitivity or numbness


Recovery often involves rest, boundaries, self-compassion, and connection to others who get it.


A Note on Identity

Neurodivergence isn’t just about difficulties—it’s also about richness. Many autistic and ADHD people describe:


  • Deep loyalty, creativity, or humour

  • Fierce attention to detail or fairness

  • Unique ways of seeing the world

  • Emotional intensity and intuitive knowing

  • A desire for authenticity and meaning


Resources to Explore

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