Do you ever wonder why you struggle with certain tasks that others seem to find second nature?

Do you feel overwhelmed by the small things most people brush aside?

If you answered yes, it could be possible you’re on the spectrum of neurodivergence.

This means your brain processes information in unique ways, which can result in both dysfunctional ‘neurodivergent symptoms,’ or ‘superpowers.’

It entirely depends on how willing you are to accept the beauty of how you function.

Taking the journey of understanding your diversity can help you unlock greater resourcefulness by celebrating strengths, which society traditionally labels as weaknesses

What is Neurodivergence?

Neurodivergence acknowledges the differing ways our brains function in relation to how we learn, focus and perceive the world, which viewed aspects of human variation – diversity.

It’s an idea that’s based on inclusivity with each person’s brain – rather than being considered “abnormal” – is viewed instead as possessing a unique set of attributes, which may pose challenges in certain environments, but could actually be seen as strengths if nurtured properly

This style of thinking, helps reframe abnormalities by acknowledging them as part of the natural range of human neural cognitive abilities, which can foster out of the box creativity, innovation and diverse perspectives.

Neurodivergent vs. Neurotypical

Neurotypical is a term often used to describe individuals who not only are able to think in a more linear fashion, but whose behaviours conform to societal norms and expectations.

Individuals with neurodivergent symptoms on the other hand, experience a wide spectrum of cognitive variations which include conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and more, leading to behavioural patterns, which challenge societal standards.

However, the idea of someone being entirely neurotypical is somewhat of a simplification, given how unique we are on an individual and physiological level as human beings.

Being neurotypical, as we currently define it in one sense, does enable individuals to perform certain tasks in an efficient manner. But that’s largely due to the fast-paced productivity-based culture that we live in rather than it being an objective truth.

We don’t always require linear objectivity.

Neurodivergent individuals excel at bringing in unique perspectives based on their more subjective approach to life, which contributes to the richness and diversity of our human experience just as much – perhaps even more so – than neurotypical thinking.

Let’s take a look at how we might reframe neurodivergents and neurotypicals:

Neurodivergent Advantage: Problem-Solving in a Work Environment

Neurotypical: In a work setting, a neurotypical individual may handle challenges using tried and tested methods and stick to only what they’re told works based on previous experience. They might not be as open to exploring solutions, potentially limiting their problem solving capacities, as well as limiting creativity and innovation in certain situations.

Neurodivergent (Pattern Recognition & Innovative Thinking): On the other hand, an individual with neurodivergent symptoms like someone, on the autism spectrum, for example, might excel at spotting patterns and discrepancies that others might miss. Their unique problem solving approach can result in solutions that break the mould, fostering greater progress.

Neurotypical Advantage: Adhering to Established Protocols in a Work Environment

Neurotypical: In work environments where there might need to be a strict adherence to protocol and procedure, a neurotypical person may find it much easier, given their ability to follow linear instructions without deviation.

These skills may be vital in fields such as healthcare, law or finance where consistency and compliance with regulations are crucial. Their commitment to following rules and standards can ensure safety, legal compliance and operational efficiency giving them an edge.

Neurodivergent (Challenges with Conventional Structure): In contrast, an individual with neurodivergent symptoms, for example someone with ADHD, might face challenges in similar roles.

Their inclination towards impulsivity and inattentiveness, coupled with a reluctance to follow procedure in certain cases could see them not being able to cope with the demands of the roles assigned to them.

This may lead to struggles in maintaining focus on tasks, potentially resulting in errors or non compliance issues that don’t make the best use of their free-thinking – and more subjective – capacities.

Neurological Underpinnings of ADHD

Attention deficits hyperactivity disorder is most often characterised by dopamine dysregulation, reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex as well as reduced blood flow and the basal ganglia to give a very broad overview.

Let’s take a closer look at what this means in real world terms:

Dopamine Dysregulation:

Dopamine dysregulation occurs when there is an Imbalance in the neurotransmitter of the same name that influences areas such as reward, motivation, and executive function.

In disorders like ADHD, this chemical imbalance mainly disrupts the prefrontal cortex and the striatum, resulting in issues such as difficulty paying attention, acting impulsively and other overfunctioning behaviours.

Because dopamine dysregulation affects the brain’s reward system, it can make it tough to stay motivated and concentrate during mundane and uninteresting ‘linear’ tasks that provide no novelty factor. As the brain is craving a dopamine hit, it will seek out quick fixes like social media scrolling, checking messages and other forms of procrastination to fulfil this need.

Real World Examples:

• Struggling with Routine Tasks: Struggling to complete mundane or repetitive tasks without losing focus.
• Task Switching: Frequently starting new tasks before finishing old ones due to lack of interest.
• Seeking Stimulation: Seeking high-stimulation activities or environments to remain engaged.
• Mood Variability: Experiencing mood swings associated with varying levels of motivation and reward.
• Goal Completion: Having a hard time following through with long-term goals due to fluctuating motivation.
• Impulsive Actions: Demonstrating impulsive behaviours in pursuit of immediate rewards.
• Inconsistent Performance: Difficulty maintaining consistent performance in work or school settings.

Reduced Activity in the Prefrontal Cortex:

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) plays a crucial role in managing cognitive functions like focus, planning, decision making and self control. Individuals with ADHD may show decreased activity in the PFC, which can result in difficulties in these areas.

Neuroimaging studies have revealed that individuals with ADHD often exhibit decreased blood flow and metabolic activity in the PFC especially when engaged in tasks that require attention and self-regulation.

This decreased activity might also result in challenges such as a lack of organisation, procrastination and difficulty completing set tasks, whether they be work-based or personal.

Real World Examples:

• Missed Deadlines: Forgetting important deadlines or failing to plan ahead for assignments and projects.
• Attention to Detail: Making careless mistakes in work or schoolwork due to lack of attention to detail.
• Task Organisation: Struggling with organising tasks, leading to cluttered workspaces and missed appointments.
• Procrastination: Procrastinating on tasks that require sustained mental effort or decision-making.
• Impulse Control: Exhibiting poor impulse control, such as making spontaneous purchases or decisions without considering consequences.
• Task Prioritisation: Experiencing difficulty in prioritising tasks, leading to inefficiency and delays.
• Social Adherence: Failing to adhere to social norms or rules due to poor judgement or decision-making.

Abnormalities in the Basal Ganglia:

The basal ganglia are a group of structures situated in the brain, which play important roles in various motor and non-motor functions. They are primarily responsible for controlling movements, learning styles, habitual behaviours as well as cognitive and emotional functions.

In the context of ADHD, neurodiversity in the basal ganglia can greatly affect the functioning of these neural circuits. Specifically the dopamine pathways, which play a role in the brain’s reward and motivation systems are closely linked to ADHD.

Hyperactivity in ADHD can also be related to the basal ganglia’s involvement in movement regulation. However, this is not limited to physical hyperactivity, but also affects cognitive processes contributing to feelings of restlessness and racing thoughts commonly experienced by individuals with ADHD.

Real World Examples:

• Restlessness: Exhibiting fidgety movements or an inability to stay still, especially in calm environments.
• Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, such as interrupting others mid-conversation or grabbing objects from people.
• Activity Transition: Struggling to switch from one activity to another or to stop an activity once started.
• Motor Coordination: Displaying inconsistent motor skills, such as being clumsy or uncoordinated.
• Focus on Gratification: Having a hard time focusing on tasks or activities that are not immediately gratifying.
• Energy Bursts: Showing sudden bursts of energy or activity without a clear purpose or direction.
• Routine Adaptation: Experiencing challenges in learning new routines or breaking old habits.

Signs of Neurodivergence in ADHD (Symptoms and Superpowers)

More people than ever before are coming to terms with their neurodivergence and living on the spectrum of ADHD. For some people, it can be a relief after years of struggling without knowing why. For others, it may feel like bearing the burden of a label of “inappropriateness.”

Let’s take a closer look at what the tendencies of ADHD look like both as both symptoms and superpowers:

Inattention Symptoms:

• Focus Challenges: Struggling to complete homework or projects due to a lack of focus.
• Misplacing Items: Frequently misplacing or losing personal items like keys or mobile phones.
• Detail Overlooking: Overlooking details in assignments, leading to errors.
• Daydreaming: Daydreaming during lectures, meetings, or conversations.
• Task Completion: Failing to follow through on instructions or finish tasks.
• Disorganised Space: Having a messy or disorganised work area.
• Forgetting Plans: Forgetting appointments, deadlines, or social plans.

Inattention Superpowers:

• Creative Thinking: Utilising moments of lack of focus to generate creative ideas and solutions.
• Adaptive Resourcefulness: Excellently adapting to situations by improvising with available resources when items are misplaced.
• Big-Picture Perspectives: Seeing beyond minor details to understand larger concepts or overall visions.
• Innovative Daydreaming: Harnessing daydreaming for creative problem-solving and innovative thinking.
• Flexible Task Management: Excelling in dynamic environments that require shifting from task to task.
• Creative Chaos: Thriving in and drawing inspiration from a disorganised space.
• Spontaneous Planning: Excelling in spontaneous situations and adapting to last-minute changes.

Hyperactivity Symptoms:

• Restlessness: Constantly tapping hands or feet, or squirming in your seat.
• Inability to Stay Seated: Getting up from a seat when expected to remain seated (e.g., in the classroom or workplace).
• Inappropriate Movement: Running or climbing in situations where it is inappropriate.
• Quiet Activity Challenges: Having difficulty engaging in activities quietly.
• Constant Motion: Being “on the go” or acting as if “driven by a motor.”
• Excessive Talking: Talking excessively without appropriate pauses or turns in conversation.
• Relaxation Difficulties: Difficulty engaging in leisure activities quietly or relaxing.

Hyperactivity Superpowers:

• Energetic Enthusiasm: Channelling restlessness into productive energy and enthusiasm.
• Active Engagement: Using the need for movement to engage actively in tasks and environments.
• Dynamic Adaptability: Excelling in active or fast-paced environments where movement is an asset.
• Passionate Participation: Bringing high energy and enthusiasm to quiet activities, enhancing group dynamics.
• Continuous Drive: Utilising the constant motion to stay driven and complete tasks with vigour.
• Expressive Communication: Using talkativeness to effectively communicate ideas and engage with others.
• Enduring Stamina: Maintaining high levels of energy, beneficial for extended activities or projects.

Impulsivity Symptoms:

• Interrupting: Interrupting conversations or speaking out of turn.
• Premature Responses: Blurting out answers before questions have been completed.
• Impatience: Having difficulty waiting for one’s turn in line or in games.
• Hasty Decisions: Making quick decisions without considering the long-term consequences.
• Risky Behaviour: Engaging in risky behaviours without considering potential harm.
• Intrusion: Intruding into others’ activities, conversations, or games.
• Disregard for Rules: Acting without regard for rules or social norms.

Impulsivity Superpowers:

• Bold Initiatives: Taking immediate action that can lead to innovative and bold outcomes.
• Spontaneous Insight: Offering immediate responses that provide fresh, spontaneous insights.
• Decisive Action: Making quick decisions that can lead to effective and timely problem-solving.
• Adventurous Spirit: Exploring new experiences and taking risks that can lead to significant rewards.
• Social Catalyst: Initiating conversations and activities that can enhance social dynamics.
• Boundary Pushing: Challenging norms and conventions to bring about change and new perspectives.
• Rule Reevaluation: Questioning and reevaluating rules or norms, leading to potential improvements or innovations.

Note: Another helpful model to look at is the 7 types of ADHD proposed by Dr Amen

Exploring Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition that primarily affects social interaction, communication and behaviour. And as the willingness to embrace neurodivergent symptoms as a part of one’s character increases, it’s becoming evident that Individuals may be living with certain characteristics of ASD without realising.

Brain Connectivity and Structure in ASD (Concise Version)

Individuals with ASD often experience disrupted connectivity within the brain, especially between the frontal cortex and other areas that are responsible for integrating and processing information which can have detrimental effects on social interactions.

Other notable differences include changes in the structure of the amygdala, which can affect reactions and motor function, as well as differences in hippocampus, which may influence memory and learning capacity.

Each of these facets of neurodivergence highlights the importance of a more person-centred approach in education, therapy and supported living, which take into account the unique qualities of each individual living with ASD as it pertains to their needs.

Cognitive and Behavioural Characteristics

Social Communication Challenges:

• Eye Contact: Struggling to maintain eye contact during conversations.
• Literal Interpretation: Misinterpreting sarcasm, jokes, or idioms, taking words very literally.
• Monotone Voice: Exhibiting a flat or monotone voice, lacking variation in tone that conveys different emotions.
• Emotion Recognition: Having difficulty recognizing or understanding other people’s emotions and expressions.
• One-Sided Conversations: Engaging in one-sided conversations, focusing on personal interests without noticing disinterest in others.
• Personal Space: Failing to observe personal space, standing too close or too far from others.
• Misinterpreting Gestures: Not using or misinterpreting gestures, like nodding or shaking the head.
• Friendship Challenges: Experiencing challenges in forming and maintaining friendships due to misunderstandings in social exchanges.

Repetitive Behaviours and Routines:

• Echolalia: Repeating the same words or phrases (echolalia) in conversations.
• Rigid Routines: Insisting on following specific routines and becoming distressed with any change, such as eating the same food daily.
• Ordering Objects: Arranging toys or objects in a precise order and becoming upset if the order is disrupted.
• Repetitive Movements: Engaging in repetitive movements, like rocking back and forth, hand-flapping, or spinning.
• Focused Interests: Showing an intense focus on specific, often unusual, interests or hobbies.
• Need for Confirmation: Requiring repetitive confirmation or asking the same questions repeatedly for reassurance.
• Preference for Familiarity: Demonstrating a strong preference for familiar environments and resisting new experiences or places.
• Routine Disruption Anxiety: Experiencing anxiety or meltdown when expected routines are interrupted or changed.

Sensory Sensitivities

Another common neurodivergent symptom set amongst those with ASD are sensory processing patterns, which can present in various ways. These are generally categorised as Hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness) or hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness) to sensory stimuli, such as touch, sound, light, taste, or smell.

While hypersensitivity or over responsiveness to sensory inputs could potentially be overwhelming in some instances of ASD, for those who are high-functioning, it could actually lead to a profound and heightened awareness of environmental details others may miss.

For example, those with heightened auditory sensitivities may have an exceptional ability to master one – or maybe several musical instruments – due to their capacity for perfect pitch, which is the ability to name any single note or element of harmony.

Likewise, those with neurodivergent symptoms that provide increased sensitivity to visual stimuli might thrive in careers that demand attention to detail and visual precision like graphic design, photography or editing.

However, those who are on the spectrum of hyposensitivity or ‘under responsiveness’ can also experience benefits from their expression of neurodiversity.

People with less sensitivity to sensory input may excel in fast-paced environments like emergency response, busy city settings or intense sports events. Their ability to stay composed and calm under these highly pressurised situations can be a huge asset.

For those involved in sport especially, their decreased sensitivity may result in a laser sharp focus and resilience in circumstances, which are incredibly high stakes. An example of this might be taking the final penalty in a football match to decide the outcome of a competition.

Real World Examples of ASD Sensory Sensitivities

Here are some examples of what both positive and negative experiences might look like in terms of the neurodivergence, which relates to sensory sensitivities in ASD:

Visual Sensitivities in ASD</h/6>

• Symptom: Discomfort or overwhelming feelings from bright or flickering lights and certain colour schemes.
• Superpower: Enhanced attention to detail and deeper appreciation of visual arts, patterns, and designs.

Auditory Sensitivities in ASD

• Symptom: Distress or anxiety triggered by loud, high-pitched, or unexpected noises.
• Superpower: Ability to detect and differentiate subtle sounds, potentially leading to musical talent or linguistic skills.

Tactile Sensitivities in ASD

• Symptom: Discomfort or aversion to certain materials, making physical contact or clothing choices challenging.
• Superpower: Heightened awareness of different textures, contributing to skills in areas requiring fine motor precision.

Olfactory Sensitivities in ASD

• Symptom: Overwhelm or nausea from strong perfumes, chemicals, or specific food odours.
• Superpower: Acute sense of smell, aiding in culinary skills or enjoyment of natural scents.

Gustatory Sensitivities in ASD

• Symptom: Restrictive eating habits or distress from intense or unfamiliar flavours.
• Superpower: Discerning palate, which can be advantageous in culinary arts or food-related professions.

Please note, that these are not definitive examples, as those with ASD may experience a wide variety of sensitivities, which are far too numerous to cover in complete detail, here.

How to Tell if I’m Neurodivergent

To truly understand your particular flavour of neurodivergence, it requires becoming innately aware of how you function in social interactions, your communication styles, sensory processing and learning styles.

This can be difficult, as the behaviours which might be deemed as neurodivergent may seem completely normal so you as they’re what you’ve always known.

Learning to recognise the signs of your own ‘shortcomings,’ or where you don’t quite fit in is the first step towards identifying your expression of divergence.

Am I Neurodivergent? (Common Questions)

If you feel you might be on the spectrum of neurodiversity, you might be surprised to learn that according to recent studies, approximately 15 to 20% of the population exhibit some form of neurodivergent symptoms.

If you feel like some of the pieces in this article might apply to you, here are a few preliminary questions you can ask yourself:

• Do I often feel like I don’t fit in or understand social cues?
• Do I have difficulty communicating my thoughts and feelings?
• Am I sensitive to loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures?
• Do I have trouble focusing or paying attention, even when I’m interested in something?
• Do I have repetitive behaviors or routines that I find comforting?
• Do I have difficulty understanding or following instructions?
• Do I have trouble managing my emotions or controlling my impulses?

If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, there is a potential you might be neurodivergent.

However, bear in mind, these are just a few entry point questions, not intended to serve as a diagnosis or assessment.

Self-Assessment Considerations (caution against self-diagnosis)

Whilst initial self-assessments can be a positive first step in opening up the doors of acceptance of your limitations and/or gifts, it does have its drawbacks. Relying solely on self-diagnosis based on anecdotal evidence and quick Google searches alone can sometimes result in potentially misleading assumptions about yourself.

Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

1. Medical Knowledge Gap: Without professional medical training, you may not possess the necessary knowledge to accurately interpret symptoms and their underlying causes.
2. Incomplete Information: Online resources and self-assessment tools provide limited information compared to a comprehensive medical evaluation.
3. Overestimation of Symptoms: Anxiety and stress can heighten the perception of symptoms, leading to an overestimation of the severity.
4. Confirmation Bias: The tendency to seek information that confirms existing beliefs can reinforce inaccurate self-diagnoses.
5. Misdiagnosis: Self-diagnosis can result in misinterpreting symptoms, potentially delaying or preventing appropriate medical care.
6. Incorrect Treatment: Based on a self-diagnosis, you may choose treatments or lifestyles choices that are ineffective or even harmful.
7. Progression of Conditions: Self-assessment may not detect serious or progressive medical conditions that require timely intervention.
8. Ignoring Underlying Causes: Focusing solely on symptoms through self-assessment might overlook underlying causes, leading to incomplete or ineffective management.
9. Lack of Professional Guidance: Healthcare professionals provide personalised guidance based on a thorough examination and medical history, which is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
10. Mental Health Concerns: Self-assessment can exacerbate anxiety and mental health issues, particularly when individuals fixate on potential illnesses.

If you’re interested in assessments for neurodivergence, including conditions like ASD, ADHD, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, and Dyslexia, you can access all the necessary services and information by using the links below.

A diagnosis isn’t a death sentence, it’s the first step on the road to empowerment.

• Assessment for ADHD/ADD
• Assessment for ASD
• Assessment for Dyslexia
• Assessment for Dysgraphia
• Assessment for Dyscalculia