What is neurodiversity?

There are a few key terms you may come across when learning about neurodiversity.

Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in how human brains work. It includes all people, recognising that everyone has their own way of thinking, learning and processing information. 

Neurodivergent

Neurodivergent describes people whose brain works differently from what is considered typical. This can include people with conditions such as:

• autism
• ADHD
• dyslexia
• dyspraxia
• dyscalculia
• Tourette’s syndrome

These differences can affect how someone communicates, focuses, processes information or experiences their surroundings.

Neurotypical

Neurotypical describes people whose thinking and processing style is more in line with what society generally expects or considers typical.

Neurodiverse

A neurodiverse group includes a mix of people with different ways of thinking - both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals.

The words we use can shape how people feel about themselves and how they are treated by others.

Using respectful and inclusive language can:

• show understanding and respect
• reduce stigma and misconceptions
• help people feel safe and valued

It can also affect how people feel about seeking support, sharing their experiences or asking for what they need.

Language preferences can also vary from person to person.

Person-first and identity-first language

Some people prefer different ways of describing their neurodivergence:

• Identity-first language:
  “Autistic person” - where neurodivergence is seen as a core part of identity
• Person-first language
  “Person with autism” - where the person is placed before the condition

There is no single correct option. The most respectful approach is to ask, listen and use the language that an individual prefers.

Respecting different language preferences

It’s also important to recognise that some commonly used terms may not be comfortable for everyone.

For example, language that describes neurodivergence as a “superpower” can feel positive to some people, but others may find it unhelpful or dismissive of the challenges they experience.

In the same way, some people may describe themselves as “neurodiverse”, even though the term is often used to describe groups rather than individuals. This reflects personal preference and there isn’t always a single “correct” way to use these words.

Language is personal and it can change over time. Being open, curious and willing to adapt helps create more respectful and inclusive communication.

Neurodiversity is not just a set of labels or definitions, it reflects lived experience.

Many neurodivergent people describe:

• feeling different from an early age
• needing to find their own way of learning or communicating
• experiencing both strengths and challenges

For some, understanding their neurodivergence - whether through diagnosis or self-discovery - can be an important step in making sense of their experiences.

It can bring clarity, relief and a better understanding of how their brain works, but it can also take time to adjust and develop strategies that feel right. This can include finding new ways of working, learning or communicating that feel more natural and sustainable.

Everyone is different

One of the most important things to understand is that there is no single neurodivergent experience. People with the same condition can have very different strengths, challenges, preferences and needs.

For example:

• one person with ADHD may struggle with focus, while another may hyper-focus on areas of interest
• one autistic person may prefer routine, while another may not

Neurodiversity is often described as a spectrum, which reflects this wide variation. This is why it’s important not to make assumptions, rely on stereotypes or expect people with the same neurodivergent condition to present in the same way.

Strengths and challenges can exist together

Neurodivergent people may experience both strengths and challenges, sometimes at the same time.

Some commonly described strengths include:

• creative thinking
• problem-solving
• pattern recognition
• attention to detail
• deep focus on areas of interest

At the same time, some people may find certain things more difficult, such as:

• managing multiple tasks
• processing lots of information
• coping with noise or busy environments
• understanding implied communication

These experiences are not fixed, or identical and they can vary depending on the situation, environment and level of support available.

Being neuroinclusive means recognising that people think and experience the world in different ways, and creating spaces where those differences are respected and supported.

This can apply in everyday situations, such as at work, in social settings and in how we communicate.

Simple ways to be more inclusive

Small changes can make a big difference. For example:

• Use clear and simple communication
  Avoid unclear or implied meaning where possible.
• Be open and curious
  Ask questions rather than making assumptions.
• Offer flexibility where possible
  Recognise that people may approach tasks in different ways.
• Be mindful of environments
  Noise, lighting and busy spaces can affect people in different ways.
• Respect different processing speeds
  Some people may need more time to think or respond.

Creating a safe and supportive environment

Feeling safe to share experiences or ask for support can make a big difference. This can apply in many areas of life, including friendships, family relationships, social situations and at work.

A neuroinclusive environment is one where:

• people feel accepted as they are
• differences are not judged or misunderstood
• support is available without pressure

In everyday relationships, this can mean being able to be yourself, feeling listened to and having space to communicate in a way that feels natural.

Creating this kind of environment doesn’t require large changes, it often starts with listening, learning and being open to doing things differently.

What helps one person can help everyone

One of the key ideas behind neuroinclusion is that what helps one person often helps everyone. 

For example, clearer communication, more structured information and quieter or calmer spaces. These changes can make it easier for everyone to understand information, focus and feel comfortable.

Neurodiversity affects all of us and not just those who identify as neurodivergent. Creating more inclusive environments is something we can all contribute to. It involves learning more, being open to different perspectives and adapting how we communicate and interact.

It’s also important to recognise that people may choose to share their experiences or not and there is no expectation for anyone to disclose.

Neurodiversity is about recognising and valuing the many different ways people think and experience the world. There is no single “normal” - just a wide range of differences that make up human experience.

By understanding this, using respectful language and staying open to learning, we can help create environments where people feel seen, supported and have the opportunity to thrive.

• ADHD in adults - NHS
  A clear overview of ADHD in adults, including symptoms, diagnosis and where to get help and support.
• ADHD UK: Resources
  A range of tools and guidance to help people with ADHD understand their condition and information about how to access support.
• Neurodiversity – CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
  A simple, supportive guide to neurodiversity and mental health. Helpful for parents and carers to explore or share with young people, and for employers wanting to better understand and support neurodivergent employees.
• Autism - NHS
  A straightforward guide to autism, explaining experiences and with information on diagnosis, support and everyday life.
• National Autistic Society: Diagnosis support
  Practical guidance for autistic people and their families. Supportive advice for before, during and after diagnosis.
• Autistica: Autism research charity
  A UK charity focused on autism research, with a strong emphasis on improving outcomes for autistic adults.
• Made By Dyslexia
  A global charity focused on changing how dyslexia is understood, with resources that highlight strengths, provide practical support and challenge common misconceptions.