If there’s one article I was eager to write for Wengood, it’s this one. I’m part of what’s called the “neuro-A” community, in other words, “neuroatypical” individuals. It might be a term you’ve heard before without really knowing what it means. So, what is neuroatypicality or neurodivergence? Is it an illness? A personality trait? A way of functioning? If you’re asking yourself these questions, you’re in the right place—I’m here to answer them.
It’s a term used to describe those of us who have a neurological functioning that differs from the norm. As mentioned in the introduction, it’s also referred to as neurodivergence. But regardless of the terminology, what does it actually mean 🤔?
The term “neurodivergence” means having unique ways of thinking, learning, communicating, managing emotions, or processing sensory input.
It’s not a neurological disease; it’s simply a different way of functioning, thinking, and perceiving the world. This includes, for example, autistic individuals, those with Attention Deficit Disorder with/without Hyperactivity (ADHD), people with DYS conditions (dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyschronia, etc.), individuals with high potential, and more.
📌 I personally relate to this because I have Attention Deficit Disorder (without hyperactivity) and hypersensitivity. However, there’s a wide range of atypical profiles that don’t necessarily fit into one box. |
If there’s such a wide range of profiles, are there any common traits among neurodivergent individuals? Yes, there are a few clues that might hint at neurodivergence, such as:
However, it’s important to remember that every neurodivergent person is unique. These characteristics are not universal and manifest differently in each individual.
📌 For example, I don’t consider myself to have unfiltered communication or logical thinking, unlike my brother, who is autistic. Well, maybe I’m a bit too naive and tend to believe everything I’m told, but I do know how to follow social norms. |
Why is it being discussed more and more? Because neurodivergence presents daily challenges. Psychiatrist David Gourion and psychologist Séverine Leduc explain that it’s not uncommon for neurodivergent individuals to struggle at school, in the workplace, or within their families due to their differing ways of functioning. Society isn’t adapted to neurodivergent individuals, which leads to many difficulties 🤕.
📌 For a long time, the working world caused me many problems, but I never realized it was because of my ADHD. I felt like I didn’t belong, which caused me a lot of anxiety… Yes, work and ADHD can sometimes be a tough combination! |
By talking about neurodivergence, we’re advocating for greater inclusion and understanding. Neurodivergent individuals already face many challenges, so it would be great if society adapted to us, rather than us having to do all the work on top of managing our unique ways of functioning 😓.
I’d like to end this article with some advice. Perhaps if you’re reading this, you feel different and are questioning your own way of functioning. Of course, it’s best to get a diagnosis from a psychologist and avoid self-diagnosis. However, here’s what I’d like to say if you feel you might be neurodivergent:
These tips might seem simple, but I wish I had known about this aspect of myself 20 years ago. It would have saved me a lot of trouble, and I hope it will save you some too 😉!
Editorial Note: A Precious Gift, Provided You Have the Right Support!Neurodivergence is a unique opportunity, full of challenges and discoveries. To navigate life peacefully as a neurodivergent individual, it’s essential to surround yourself with the right resources and people. A psychologist can be a valuable ally in helping you explore your uniqueness and turn your differences into true strengths. Don’t hesitate to take this step toward a more harmonious and fulfilling life. You deserve to feel good in your own skin and live up to your full potential. 🤗 Understand yourself, accept yourself, be happy... It starts here and now! |
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Lauren, Hart
"Writing is a beautiful means of expression that I cannot do without. It has allowed me to channel my hypersensitivity, plus I love writing about psychology and personal development. For me, self-understanding is the best way to move forward!"
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