Neurodiversity celebrates the unique ways people’s brains function and experience the world. At NeuroDirect, we aim to empower individuals by providing resources and access to trusted specialists who understand autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions. Whether you’re seeking to learn more about neurodiversity or looking for support, our directory connects you with professionals who can help. Let’s embrace the diversity of minds together.
What is Neurodiversity?
Jody Singer, an Australian sociologist, first used the term “Neurodiversity” in her 1988 thesis, a term later popularized in Robert Blume’s article in The Atlantic:
“Neurodiversity may be every bit as crucial for the human race as biodiversity is for life in general. Who can say what form of wiring will prove best at any given moment?”
Robert Blume
Some Basic Definitions
Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity is a term referring to the diversity of human minds/brains. And identifies this as a natural part of biological diversity.
Neurodiversity is simply just another form of human diversity. Neurodiversity is a biological fact. It is a natural, valuable, and beneficial part of human evolution. Everyone has a unique brain and therefore different skills, abilities, and needs.
Neurodiverse
Describes the neurodiversity and variation in people. Neurodiverse is typically used to describe neurodivergent people.
Neurodivergent
A person can be neurodivergent, meaning they deviate from the neuro-normative or neurotypical majority. ADHD, Dyslexia and Autism are all examples of neurodivergence. A person can have an innate (from birth) neurodivergence or acquired (such as from a brain injury).
There is no “Normal” brain
The idea that there is one “normal” or “right” brain is a social construct. There are diverse forms of processing social information, cognitions and sensory information. In the same way that there isn’t a “right” gender, race, class, or sexual orientation, there isn’t a “right” way for the brain to be wired. Neurodiversity can be a powerful asset for society, a business, a relationship, or a family.
Moving from “Cure” to “Embrace”
Neurodivergence doesn’t intrinsically cause suffering; much of the struggle and strain comes from navigating a world that can be overwhelming on a sensory, social, and cognitive level.
Emphasis shifts from trying to “cure” neurodivergent individuals to helping neurodivergent individuals embrace their diversity. Therapists should work with neurodivergent individuals to find ways of living that are more in sync with their natural neurological wiring and help them to heal from internalised ableism and oppression. We are moving away from the idea of teaching ‘social skills’, and actually trying to help neurodivergent people unmask and embrace themselves.
Types of Neurodivergent Conditions:
- Autism
- ADHD
- Dyslexia
- Dyscalculia
- Dyspraxia
- Tourette’s
- Intellectual Disability
- Learning Difficulties
- Brain Injury
- Epilepsy
- OCD
- Dysgraphia
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Hyperlexia
- Irlen Syndrome
- Prader-Willi Syndrome
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Down Syndrome
- Dementia
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Mild Cognitive Impairment
Are you Neurodivergent?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is the concept that variations in the human brain, such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, are natural and valuable differences, not disorders to be fixed.
2. How can I find specialists for neurodivergent conditions?
Visit our Find a Specialist page to connect with trusted professionals offering support for autism, ADHD, and more.
3. What are examples of neurodivergent conditions?
Common neurodivergent conditions include autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia, and Tourette’s syndrome.
4. How can I embrace neurodiversity in everyday life?
Understanding neurodiversity starts with education and empathy. Explore our blog for insights and tips on supporting neurodivergent individuals.
5. Does NeuroDirect provide resources for families?
Yes! NeuroDirect offers tools, articles, and a directory to help families find specialists and support services tailored to their needs.