Neurodiversity and mental problems.

[arunima]

Neurodiversity includes many so called disorders like Autism Spectrum Disorder( ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder( ADHD), Attention Deficit Disorder( ADD), Dyslexia, Dyspgraphia, Apraxia, Dyscalculia etc. These are often mistaken as mental disorders due to lack of awareness. These are not mental disorders but neurological ones. The neural wiring frame in these individuals are different and their brain functions differently. They are not intellectually disabled ( unless that is a co existing condition with either of these). The way they learn and express is different.
However, a lot of these children develop mental, emotional and behavioural issues. That's because of the inner needs not understood by outside world and not catered to them. Also, they keep struggling with day to day life, be judged and ridiculed for being different, made to fit in the mainstream world, bullied etc. These day to day struggles leads to various mental health problems. If provided with support, love and understanding, these people can lead a fulfilling life and achieve their potent.
Share your stories with any neurodiverse person you have come across, their challenges and the mental and emotional issues that they face.

 

[Brem]

Neurodiversity is a very broad term, as it refers to so many different things. I think in a way, we're all somewhat neurodivergent in that we all struggle with something like this. Essentially those who are neurodivergent, their brains work differently than others. I consider myself neurodivergent because of my social anxiety and the fact that I can't handle social interactions to some extent. I am constantly in my head because of that.

 

[Hazel]

I’ve had the chance to interact with a few neurodiverse people, mostly friends or acquaintances who are on the autism spectrum or have ADHD. One friend, for example, struggles with social interactions, crowded or noisy spaces can be overwhelming, and small talk often feels exhausting. Another has ADHD and experiences intense frustration when tasks seem simple to others but take them much longer to process or complete. Both deal with anxiety and stress in ways that aren’t always visible. I have seen how exhausting it can be to navigate a world that isn’t built for their processing styles, and how small accommodations, like clear instructions, structured routines, or quiet spaces, make a huge difference emotionally and mentally.