Neurodivergent:

🌈 Neurodivergent Basics: Understanding Different Minds

Neurodivergence refers to the natural variations in how people's brains work. These differences affect learning, attention, mood, sensory experiences, and social interactions. Being neurodivergent isn’t a flaw or a mental illness; it's a part of human diversity.

🧠 What Does "Neurodivergent" Mean?

The term neurodivergent describes individuals whose brain functions differ from what is considered "neurotypical" (the statistical norm). Neurodivergence is not a medical diagnosis — it’s a social and identity-based term that recognizes and respects cognitive differences.

Common Types of Neurodivergence:

🔹 ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)

• Key Traits: Difficulty focusing, impulsivity, hyperactivity (in some), executive dysfunction

• Strengths: Creativity, spontaneous problem-solving, high energy, outside-the-box thinking

• Challenges: Staying organized, time management, task completion

🔹 Autism (Autism Spectrum Condition)

• Key Traits: Differences in communication, sensory processing, social interaction, and routines

• Strengths: Deep focus, honesty, pattern recognition, unique perspectives

• Challenges: Sensory overload, navigating social cues, managing change

🔹 Dyslexia

• Key Traits: Difficulty with reading, writing, spelling despite normal intelligence

• Strengths: Visual thinking, creativity, spatial reasoning, innovation

• Challenges: Reading fluency, decoding words, spelling consistency

🔹 PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)

• Key Traits: Flashbacks, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, hypervigilance

• Note: PTSD is typically trauma-induced but can result in long-term cognitive and emotional changes, making it part of some neurodivergent discussions

• Challenges: Triggers in daily life, memory lapses, emotional fatigue

🔹 Other Forms of Neurodivergence

• Dyscalculia: Difficulty with numbers and math-related tasks

• Dyspraxia (DCD): Challenges with motor coordination

• Tourette Syndrome: Involuntary tics and vocalizations

• OCD: Repetitive thoughts and compulsive behaviors

• Bipolar Disorder: Mood regulation challenges, energy shifts

🧩 Why It Matters

• Inclusivity: Recognizing neurodiversity helps build environments that support all brain types.

• Accommodations: When workplaces, schools, and communities understand neurodivergence, they can make changes that allow everyone to thrive.

• Empowerment: Understanding neurodivergence reduces stigma and encourages self-advocacy.

💬 Final Thoughts

Being neurodivergent doesn't mean someone is broken — it means their brain works differently. With understanding and support, neurodivergent individuals can unlock their potential and lead fulfilling lives. Unfortunately, many places in society today expect someone who is neurodivergent to fit in or learn the way a neurotypical would; therefore, they mask or pretend to fit in or not be seen.

This is why Paige works in a private school and with online mental health services for these populations. They don’t need to be fixed - instead, they need to learn differently. Additionally families with adolescents are dealing with grief even if they aren’t quite aware of this. They often feel lost, alone and frustrated. They also have face the fact that their child may not be what they thought they were. Yoga teaches us to let go of attachment and from there we can all find joy in the uniqueness.