Exploring neurodiversity: definition, traits and understanding
Neurodiversity is a different way of experiencing the world, and understanding it can help you or someone you care about feel seen, supported and empowered.
Neurodiversity is the idea that differences in how people think, learn, process information and interact with the world are a normal and natural part of being human – not something that needs to be ‘fixed’ or ‘cured’. It recognises that every brain works differently, and these differences can bring unique strengths as well as challenges.
You might come across terms like ‘neurodivergent’, ‘neurotypical’ and ‘neurodiverse’ when reading about this topic. While these words are sometimes used interchangeably, they can mean different things depending on the context.
People often use these terms in different ways, and that’s OK. The most important thing is to use language that feels right for you and reflects how you see yourself.
What does it mean to be neurodivergent?
Being neurodivergent means your brain processes, learns or experiences the world in a way that’s different from what’s typically expected – and this can show up in many different ways in day-to-day life.
For some, it might mean being highly focused on certain topics or noticing patterns that others miss. Others may have a strong eye for detail, creative problem-solving skills or a deep sense of empathy. At the same time, there can be challenges – such as difficulties with organisation, sensory sensitivities (like being overwhelmed by noise or lights), or finding social situations more demanding. Sometimes, neurodivergent people may hide their true selves, either on purpose or without realising it, to fit in with others. This can, at times, affect their mental health and overall wellbeing.
It's important to remember that neurodivergence isn’t one single experience – it varies greatly from person-to-person. What’s a strength for one person might be a challenge for another. Everyone’s profile is different, and that’s what makes understanding and supporting neurodivergence so important.
Is neurodiversity a disability?
Whether or not neurodiversity is considered to be a disability often comes down to how someone views themselves, their experiences and the context they’re in.
Some people do identify as having a disability, especially if they face challenges in a world that tends to be shaped around neurotypical ways of thinking, learning and interacting.
In these cases, recognising certain forms of neurodivergence – such as autism, ADHD or dyslexia – as a disability can be helpful, particularly when it comes to accessing support. Under the Equality Act 2010, these conditions are often protected as disabilities, which means people are legally entitled to reasonable adjustments and protection from discrimination.
Others may not see their neurodivergence as a disability. They may feel their differences are an important part of who they are – with unique strengths that deserve to be embraced, not labelled.
It’s a deeply personal choice, and there’s no right or wrong answer. What matters most is that everyone feels respected, supported and free to define their own identity.
Types of neurodivergence
Neurodivergence is an umbrella term that covers a wide range of conditions and differences in how people think, process information and interact with the world.
Some of the most commonly recognised forms of neurodivergence include:
Neurodevelopmental differences
- Autism – a developmental difference that can affect communication, social interaction, sensory processing and patterns of thinking or behaviour
- ADHD – a recognised condition that can involve challenges with attention, impulsivity, hyperactivity or emotional regulation. Some people prefer to use the name ‘variable attention stimulus trait (VAST)’ instead of ADHD, which focuses more on how attention shifts depending on interest and stimulation, rather than framing it as a ‘deficit’. While ADHD is the clinical term used for diagnosis and support, VAST can feel like a more positive way of describing similar experiences
- Tourette’s syndrome – a neurological condition that causes involuntary movements or sounds, known as tics. These can range in type and intensity, and are usually grouped into motor tics (movements) and vocal tics (sounds)
Learning differences
- Dyslexia – a learning difference that mainly affects reading, spelling and writing, often alongside strengths in problem-solving or creativity
- Dyscalculia – a learning difference that affects how someone understands numbers, maths or time-related tasks. However, people with dyscalculia may find creative ways to problem-solve and often have strengths in areas like visual thinking, storytelling or the arts
- Dysgraphia – a condition that impacts writing skills, including handwriting, spelling and organising thoughts on paper
Motor and co-ordination differences
- Dyspraxia – also known as developmental co-ordination disorder (DCD), this affects movement, co-ordination and sometimes planning and organisation
Sensory differences
- Sensory processing differences – where someone may be over or under-sensitive to things like noise, light, textures or smells, which can affect comfort and focus. This type of sensory sensitivity can occur independently or as part of other neurodivergent conditions
Other related conditions
- Other co-occurring mental health conditions – neurodivergent people may also experience conditions like obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety or depression, though they are not considered neurodivergent in themselves
Could I be neurodivergent?
If you’ve ever felt like your brain works a little differently from those around you – whether that’s in how you focus, learn, interact or process the world – you’re not alone.
Many people start exploring neurodivergence after noticing long-standing patterns in their thinking, behaviour or emotional responses. This might include finding social situations draining, being easily overwhelmed by noise or light, having a strong need for routine, or struggling with attention, organisation or learning in traditional settings.
These experiences don’t necessarily mean you are neurodivergent, but they can be signs that it’s worth exploring further.
Our neurodiversity hub has been designed to guide you through the different types of support we offer at Priory – from private assessments to ongoing therapy and tailored strategies that suit your needs. If you’re specifically wondering about autism, we also offer private autism assessments for adults and children in a safe, understanding and professional setting.
If you're not sure where to start, our free and confidential online screening tools can be a helpful first step:
These tools won’t give you a diagnosis, but they can offer useful insight and help you decide whether to explore things further. While anxiety, depression and OCD aren’t considered forms of neurodivergence, they are sometimes experienced alongside it. These assessments may help you understand certain traits or feelings that could be linked to your wider experience.
Information for families and loved ones
If someone you care about – whether it’s a partner, child or friend – seems to experience the world a little differently, or has shared that they’re finding certain things challenging, you might be wondering how best to support them.
The most important thing is to listen, be patient and let them know you’re there. Gently encouraging them to explore further support can be a helpful next step.
For children, we have a number of next steps you could consider:
- Explore our autism screening for children or autism screening for teenagers, which parents and carers can complete on their behalf
- We also offer coaching for parents of children with ADHD, which can help you build supportive strategies and better understand your child’s needs
If you’re unsure where to begin, our team is always here to help. You can contact us at any time for advice and guidance.
FAQs
Is neurodivergence a mental health condition?
No – neurodivergence isn’t a mental health condition. It refers to natural differences in how the brain works. However, neurodivergent people may be more likely to experience mental health challenges such as anxiety or low mood, especially if they haven’t received the right support.
Is neurodivergence genetic?
Many forms of neurodivergence have a genetic component, meaning they can run in families. However, environmental factors – such as early life experiences, stress or exposure to certain substances – can also influence how these traits develop and are expressed.
Can neurodivergence change over time?
Neurodivergence itself doesn’t go away, but how it shows up – and how someone manages it – can change over time. With the right understanding and support, many people find effective ways to navigate challenges and thrive in their own way.
Is neurodivergence increasing?
While it may seem like more people are neurodivergent today, this rise is largely due to increased awareness, better understanding, and improved access to assessments and diagnoses. The actual prevalence of neurodivergence is unlikely to have changed significantly.
Can you be neurodivergent without a diagnosis?
Yes – many people identify as neurodivergent based on their lived experiences, even without a formal diagnosis. While a diagnosis can offer helpful insight and access to support, it isn’t the only way to understand and embrace your neurodivergence.
Is it possible to be more than one type of neurodivergent?
Absolutely. It’s common for people to relate to more than one type of neurodivergence. For example, someone might have both ADHD and dyslexia, or autism and sensory processing differences. Some people are diagnosed with both autism and ADHD, which is sometimes referred to as AuDHD. This is often described as ‘co-occurring’ or ‘co-existing’ neurodivergence.
Do you offer support if I already have a diagnosis?
Yes – at Priory, we offer a range of neurodiverse services beyond diagnosis, including therapy, coaching and practical support. Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed or have known for years, we’re here to help you navigate your next steps.