What Does Neurodiversity Even Mean?

Chances are you’ve heard the words ‘neurodivergence’ or ‘neurodiversity’ being used and had no idea what it meant. Well, lucky for you are not the first and definitely not the last. But that is okay! See, the term ‘neurodivergence’ is a non-medical umbrella term which used to only refer to Autism but now has widened to describe the many exciting ways that people experience and interact with the world around them in different ways. So, just because we think differently does not mean our way is wrong. In fact, when does life come with an instruction manual on how to do things?! Never! 

Instead, society makes us believe we must act in a certain way or be seen as ‘different.’ But in reality, there is no one ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way of thinking, learning or behaving. And just because we think, learn and act differently, why is that a bad thing? Shouldn’t that make us unique? Aren’t some of the greatest inventors, designers, artists and scientists praised daily for their unique brilliance? So why do we not see the people around us for their exceptional brilliance? Instead, we focus on why their differences bother us or stir away from societal expectations and norms. 

(Goh, n.d.)

The term “neurodivergent” was coined in the 1990s by sociologist Judy Singer. Singer was a self-advocate for autism. She challenged the conventional ideas of what was considered normal and abnormal. Her research emphasized that no brain is the same and everyone has different abilities and needs. Therefore, this implies that everyone’s brain operates differently, neurodivergent or not. The way that I explain it to people is that people who are neurodivergent have their brains wired and powered differently. This is where their superpowers derive from. So, it is not that your brain is different and cannot do specific tasks on demand, but that these tasks are processed and completed differently than neurotypical peers. This is not to say that one way is better, but rather, they both have advantages and disadvantages depending on the situation. A neurodiverse mind allows you to see life through a different lens that most people may not realize.

Neurodivergence is everywhere; it is estimated that there are about 600,000 adults in Canada who are considered neurodivergent in some way, which is roughly 15 - 20% of the population. Over the years, this number has increased. But it is not necessarily because it is becoming more prevalent but due to increased research that shows a lot of people go undiagnosed until adulthood or when they notice similar characteristics in themselves with their neurodivergent children, which leads them to realize their neurodivergence. 

Now, I know you are probably thinking, what if I am neurodivergent? Well, I can assure you that regardless of the answer to that question, it does not matter! If you are neurodivergent, congratulations, and welcome to a page that will help you learn about your hidden superpower and help bring awareness to others like you. So that we can help show others the amazing things you and others like you can accomplish with access to the proper modifications, accommodations and resources! And if you are not, I am glad you are here to learn more about neurodiversity and how we can reduce the stigma and false ideologies of disability and divergent minds! 

References:

Bitti, M. T. (2022, May 16). How neurodiverse perspectives can help fuel innovation. Financial Post. https://financialpost.com/sponsored/news-sponsored/how-neurodiverse-perspectives-can-help-fuel-innovation

DCEG Staff. (2022, April 25). Neurodiversity—NCI. NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE Division of Cancer Epidemiology & Genetics. https://dceg.cancer.gov/about/diversity-inclusion/inclusivity-minute/2022/neurodiversity

Goh, S. (n.d.). What is Neurodiversity? Cortica. Retrieved April 16, 2024, from https://www.corticacare.com/care-notes/what-is-neurodiversity

Rudy, L. J. (2024, April 14). What Does “Neurodivergent” Mean? Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/neurodivergent-5216749