Human beings’ brains develop similarly, however, no two brains function exactly alike. Cleveland Clinic explains that neurodiversity is a term that explains the unique ways that people’s brains work. In short, if you’re neurodivergent, it means that your brain works differently from a neurotypical (average) person.
For example, this can impact how you communicate, learn, perceive your environment, and what your social preferences are. This, in turn, leads to a different range of strengths and challenges.
Some of the possible strengths of neurodivergent individuals include things like better memory, the ability to solve complex math calculations, picturing 3D objects more easily, etc. In short, neurodiversity encompasses different abilities and struggles.
If you want to be supportive of someone who is neurodivergent, there are lots of things that you can do! Many of them are common-sense things that would apply to neurotypical people, too.
For instance, you should actively listen to everyone, whether they’re neurodivergent or neurotypical.
Cleveland Clinic warns that neurodivergent individuals may feel misunderstood or left out. So, it’s helpful if you’re willing to listen to them, make them feel heard, and show that you respect them and their choices.
It’s also respectful if you communicate with neurodivergent individuals in ways that help them, instead of hindering them. “Sometimes, people who are neurodivergent prefer written communication such as instant messaging, texting, or emails over a phone call or face-to-face conversation. Give them the time and tools they need to communicate.”
Meanwhile, experts actually recommend that you don’t use value-based terms such as ‘high-functioning’ or ‘low-functioning’ when describing conditions such as autism. This is because these labels refer to a person’s level of function in terms of how closely they behave to someone who is neurotypical.
Furthermore, don’t assume that all neurodivergent people are “the same.” They’re unique individuals with potentially very different preferences and personalities, even if they share the same underlying condition.
It is also rude to assume that someone who is neurodivergent might be incapable or unintelligent. In a nutshell, you have to remember to treat all human beings with respect and dignity, no matter who they are.
One of the most widely known forms of neurodivergence is autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is a diverse group of conditions that are related to the development of the brain. Autism can be detected in early childhood, however, it is often not diagnosed until much later in life.
The World Health Organization notes that the abilities and needs of autistic individuals can vary and evolve. “While some people with autism can live independently, others have severe disabilities and require life-long care and support.”
According to the WHO, people with autism can improve their communication and social skills with evidence-based psychosocial interventions. This can have a positive impact on both their well-being and quality of life, as well as those of their caregivers.
“Care for people with autism needs to be accompanied by actions at community and societal levels for greater accessibility, inclusivity and support,” the WHO advises.
