Cork Views: Taking time to celebrate and to understand neurodiversity

What is all this talk about neurodiversity?

The term neurodivergent is an umbrella term that describes individuals whose brain functions, cognitive processes, and behaviours differ from what is typically considered neurotypical or the norm. While autism and ADHD are the most commonly associated conditions; dyslexia, dyspraxia, OCD, Tourette’s syndrome, borderline personality disorder, sensory processing disorder, and even the lasting effects of trauma all fall under this umbrella term.

Variation in nature is what makes the world a beautiful and interesting place. But different brains have different needs, and unfortunately, we live in a culture that often fails to accommodate or even understand this diversity, making life more challenging for those with differently wired bodies and brains.

The concept of neurodiversity was first introduced by sociologist Judy Singer in the 1990s and represents a shift in perspective, from viewing conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia as disorders that need fixing, to recognising them as natural variations in human cognition. Many neurodivergent individuals see their differences as part of who they are, rather than disabilities. However, while celebrating neurodivergent strengths, it’s also crucial to acknowledge that many require additional support, accommodations, and understanding to navigate a world that’s designed for neurotypicals. Sensory sensitivities, communication differences, and executive functioning challenges are very real, and the right accommodations and support make a huge difference.

Why are more people being diagnosed as neurodivergent?

It’s not that neurodivergence is becoming more common; rather, the definition and understanding of it has evolved, and it is finally being recognised. Many people who struggled in silence for years are now able to put a name to their experiences, and receive the validation and support they never had before. Additionally, our fast-paced, overstimulating, tech-heavy society, has made neurodivergent traits more noticeable, and sometimes more challenging. Expectations of constant communication, rigid scheduling, and overwhelming sensory environments have made it even harder for neurodivergent individuals to thrive without accommodations.

Why is it hard to be neurodivergent in a neurotypical world?

There are countless unwritten rules about how to behave, communicate, and function in society, rules that don’t always come naturally to neurodivergent individuals. This can result in a lot of internalised shame from not fitting into societal expectations and norms, and negatively impact mental health.

Some examples include:

Literacy expectations may disadvantage dyslexic individuals, limiting their opportunities.

Bright, noisy, crowded environments can be overwhelming for those with sensory sensitivities.

Rigid structures and organisation systems can feel impossible to navigate for people with executive functioning challenges.

Social expectations can be confusing and exhausting for those who process communication differently.

What seems ordinary to neurotypical individuals can be an all-consuming daily struggle for those who experience the world differently.

What is masking?

To fit in and belong, many neurodivergent people suppress their natural behaviours (either consciously or unconsciously). This is known as masking and is both mentally and physically exhausting. Chronic masking can lead to neurodivergent burnout, where individuals become completely drained from constantly trying to meet neurotypical expectations.

For those who are undiagnosed, masking can be even more distressing because they may not even realise they are doing it. They might wonder why everyday life feels so difficult for them when others seem to manage effortlessly, and can even result in anxiety and depression (rates of which are significantly higher in these populations).

In fact, many people only discover they are neurodivergent after seeking help for mental health challenges, finally understanding a lifetime of difficulties that had previously gone unexplained. While a late diagnosis can be validating, it can also bring grief over what could have been had they known sooner.

The lack of awareness about neurodivergence brings its own challenges. Once upon a time, dyslexia meant bad at school, ADHD meant troublemaker, and autism meant withdrawn. And while awareness has evolved, outdated stereotypes continue to persist, making self-advocacy difficult when people misunderstand or lack understanding of the very real struggles that come with these conditions. Furthermore, stigma and misinformation can create barriers to employment, education, and social inclusion.

Neurodivergent individuals often bring unique talents to the table: creativity and innovation, deep passion and hyperfocus, honest direct communication, detail-oriented thinking, problem-solving skills, and much more. Therefore, organisations, schools, and communities that both embrace and provide adequate support for neurodiversity, can benefit greatly from the diverse perspectives, creativity, and talents that these individuals bring.

Neurodiversity celebration week

Neurodiversity Celebration Week is about shifting perspectives, challenging stereotypes and moving toward a society that values and supports all kinds of minds.

Acknowledging neurodiversity is just the first step, taking action is the next. Take the time to truly learn about autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and/or other neurodivergent experiences. Recognise that just because someone is different, their needs are no less valid. Now ask yourself: how can your workplace, school, or social circle be more inclusive?

By fostering a more accepting world, we can create environments where neurodivergent individuals don’t just survive, but actually thrive.