About Neurodivergence

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"Neurodivergent" is a word used to describe brains that process, learn, and experience the world differently from what's considered typical (or "neurotypical"). It includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and many other neurological variations involving a variety of cognitive differences. Being neurodivergent isn't a disorder. Embracing neurodivergence is about challenging the idea of 'normal' and acknowledging and appreciating brain differences as a form of human diversity.

→ Learn more: “What It Really Means to Be Neurodivergent” (Blog post coming soon!)

Neurodiversity means that differences in minds and brains exist, and that there are many acceptable ways of thinking, feeling, communicating, and being. No two individuals are the same. The term ‘neurodivergent’ refers to brains that diverge from what is considered ‘typical’ according to standards outlined by society. The term ‘neurotypical’ refers to someone who is presumed to be developmentally typical.

Autism involves differences in social communication, sensory processing, and patterns of interest or routine. ADHD affects focus, attention, and regulation of energy or impulses. AuDHD is when both are present, leading to overlapping strengths and challenges, often a mix of high sensitivity and fast thinking.

→ Learn more: “Autism vs. ADHD vs. AuDHD: How They Overlap and Differ” (Blog post coming soon!)

Masking means hiding or minimizing natural traits to fit social expectations. It’s common among neurodivergent people, especially women and AFAB individuals. While it can help people feel accepted, long-term masking can have a negative impact on mental health and lead to exhaustion and burnout.

→ Learn more: “Masking Explained: Why So Many People Are Misdiagnosed” (Blog post coming soon!)

Traits in women, girls, and gender-diverse people are often subtler or internalized, often showing up as perfectionism, anxiety, and people-pleasing rather than obvious hyperactivity or social withdrawal. This contributes to underdiagnosis and late recognition.

→ Learn more: “Neurodivergent Women: The Hidden Signs” (Blog post coming soon!)

Traits are natural, enduring characteristics of how a person thinks, feels, and processes the world. Traits reflect neurology, not illness. Symptoms describe experiences that are causing distress or impairment and may signal that someone needs support. Personality is the unique blend of traits, values, and learned patterns that make each person who they are.

Trauma and neurodivergence can look similar on the surface (e.g., hypervigilance, shutdowns, social withdrawal), but they stem from different causes. Many neurodivergent people also experience trauma due to chronic misunderstanding or invalidation. Healing often involves both trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming approaches.

→ Learn more: “Is It Autism, ADHD, Trauma, or All Three?” (Blog post coming soon!)

Self-diagnosis can be valid and empowering, especially when formal assessment is inaccessible or biased. Many adults identify through research, deep reflection, and community validation before or instead of clinical testing. What matters most is self-understanding and informed support.

→ Learn more: “Is Self-Diagnosis Valid? Understanding Identity vs. Label” (Blog post coming soon!)

It’s normal to feel a mix of relief, confusion, grief, and clarity after a diagnosis. Give yourself time to process and explore what this new understanding means for you. Many people start by learning about their traits, connecting with others who share similar experiences, and noticing what environments, routines, and supports help them feel regulated and authentic. It can be helpful to think of a diagnosis as a framework that can guide self-compassion, accommodations, and a life that fits your brain rather than forcing your brain to fit your life.