Neurodiversity is an umbrella term used to describe the variety of ways in which brains process information and the world around them. Below we look at this in more detail, explore some of the most common types of neurodiversity and how we can better support our neurodiverse society.
Written by Grant Longstaff. Published 13 November 2024.
What is neurodiversity?
The term neurodiversity was first used by Judy Singer, a sociologist, in 1997. Now, the term is used universally to acknowledge the vast number of ways which brains work. The term is commonly associated with conditions such as autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, neurodiversity covers many more neurological and developmental conditions, with an estimated one in seven people in the UK having some kind of neuro difference.
Types of neurodiversity
The NHS states neurodivergent conditions include the following:
- Autism/Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
- ADHD
- Variable Attention Stimulus Trait (VAST)
- Dyspraxia
- Dyslexia
- Dyscalculia
- Tourette’s Syndrome
- Stammering
- Dysgraphia
- Misophonia
- Cognitive functioning difficulties or executive dysfunction
This list isn’t exhaustive. As the NHS points out, there are many other conditions which could fall under the umbrella of neurodiversity. It’s also worth noting that neurodivergence is classed as a disability, though there are some neurodivergent people who don’t class themselves as disabled.
Autism
One of the most important things to remember when it comes to autism, medically known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is that it is a spectrum, meaning autism affects people in a number of different ways. Because of this the support required by autistic people varies greatly. Some people may need daily support, others may require little to no help.
ADHD
ADHD has two common behavioural symptoms. One is finding it difficult to focus and concentrate, the other is hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Many people with ADHD experience both symptoms, though not always. For example, some people may only experience inattentiveness, and this is known as attention deficit disorder (ADD).
Whilst we can’t explore every condition here, the NHS offers information and support on many of the conditions experienced by neurodiverse people and its database is a great starting point to gain more knowledge.
How can employers make people with neurodiversity more comfortable?
No one mind is the same as another, and what works for one neurodiverse individual might not work for another. There is so much nuance and complexity within neurodiversity, and again with each condition, that the first step should be to understand exactly how an individual is affected.
Employers shouldn’t presume what a neurodivergent employee needs. A conversation about someone’s neurodiversity should take place instead, which can help identify reasonable adjustments for a workplace or learning environment. Common adjustments might help accommodate sensory needs regarding sound or light, or include allowing extra breaks for movement, or altering a uniform.
Don’t be afraid to discuss your neurodiversity with an employer, they have an obligation to help make your working environment as comfortable as possible.
Challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals
There are a number of challenges which neurodiverse people face, but one of the most common is people misunderstanding a person’s neurodiversity and neurodiverse individuals having to challenge the stigma which comes with the term.
Judy Singer told The Guardian in 2023, that “as a word, ‘neurodiversity’ describes the whole of humanity. But the neurodiversity movement is a political movement for people who want their human rights.” Taking some time to educate yourself on neurodiversity – and asking neurodivergent individuals what accommodations you can make – is one of the best ways to help challenge perceptions and better understand neurodiversity.
Resources and support for neurodiversity
Whether you’re in a workplace, university, or community you deserve respect and the right to be treated fairly. There are many dedicated organisations and charities for the conditions experienced by neurodivergent people who can offer advice and support.
We offer a range of support for neurodiverse individuals, some of which we discussed with our previous neurodiverse students, asking how they navigate a neurodiverse lifestyle. Our neurodiverse staff have also discussed their experiences of neurodiversity in the workplace and we have a number of study tips for neurodiverse students which may be useful too.
If you’re neurodiverse and considering one of our courses you can find out more about our Disability and Inclusion Service (DIS) and how they can help you throughout your time with us.
