Could I Be Neurodivergent?

Over the last five years, the term “neurodivergence” has been popping up in mental health and psychology spaces more and more. But what exactly does it mean? The term represents a concept encompassing a wide range of processing differences in human brains. For example, neurodivergent individuals may have conditions such as ADHD, OCD, Autism, anxiety, etc. which affect their daily experiences in the world. Sometimes, neurodivergent individuals are fortunate to have received a clinical diagnosis, but this is actually rare within the neurodivergent community. What is most likely the case for neurodivergent individuals is the experience of feeling different, less than, judged, or misunderstood by those around them and carrying shame and feeling burnout due to this. This is why understanding neurodivergence is important, not only for those who are neurodivergent, but also for society as a whole, as it fosters acceptance, empathy, and inclusivity. So how do we do this?

 

Recognizing Neurodivergence: What to Look For

    1. Sensory Differences: Does the thought of shopping in a crowded grocery store under bright florescent lighting in the open refrigerated section make you sweat? Have you ever found yourself turning down the music in your car when you are trying to navigate a new area and keep getting getting turned around? These are potential signs of sensory sensitivities. Neurodivergent individuals often have strong sensitivities to lights, sounds, textures, or other sensory stimuli, leading to discomfort or overload in triggering environments.

   2. Social Anxiety: Difficulty in social interactions and understanding social cues is another common trait of many types of neurodivergence. Oftentimes, they find it challenging to naturally start or maintain a conversation with others they do not know well. It also is common for them to find eye contact awkward, or just prefer avoiding it altogether. Takeaway: If you struggle to determine when it may be ‘your turn’ to ‘jump in’ during a group conversation and/or you are most comfortable settling into a quiet, removed space at large group events, this may be a sign that you are dealing with social difficulties, common in neurodivergent individuals.

   3. Stimming: Has anyone ever pointed out to you that you tap, foot shake, or engage in other repetitive fidgeting behavior when you are at rest and/or excited or stressed? These are actually signs of stimming and though nuerotypical people are known to fidget from time to time as well, those of us with ADHD, autism, OCD, anxiety, etc. tend to stim more frequently and in specific, often preferred ways each time.

   4. Hyperfocus: Neurodivergent individuals are more likely to display intense focus and passion in specific areas of interest. Getting lost down Tiktok rabbit holes for large chunks of time every day? Taking up a new hobby, spending hundreds of dollars on it, then moving on to something new a month later? These patterns of behavior are actually quite unique even if they feel typical to you. A neurodivergent’s deep concentration can make it difficult for them to focus on anything else outside of their interest or focus in the moment. That said, this experience is also very satisfying and rewarding for the individual and is also able to be a major strength.

   5. Executive Functioning Challenges: Weaknesses with organization, managing or planning timing accurately, or transitioning from one activity to another can be common signs of neurodivergence, especially in regards to ADHD and Autism. On the flipside, in OCD, executive functioning skills are usually very strong. However, it is still challenge as these individuals are more likely to overfocus on executive functioning tasks, such as rigid organization preferences, hygiene rituals, social rituals, etc. As humans, we tend to be good at identifying low executive functioning in biological males. This is due to biological females tending to overcompensate for their skill deficit more. They can become very good at pouring excess amounts of their energy into attempting to improve or perfect their executive functioning to live up to the standards within their social circles. Sadly, this overcompensation is likely to lead to serious shame and burnout over time.

So… does any of the above resonate with you?

Understanding neurodivergence is not just about recognizing these signs in ourselves or others, but also about appreciating the unique perspectives and strengths that neurodivergent individuals bring to the table. Embracing neurodiversity promotes a society where differences are valued, accepted, and understood. It gives everyone an opportunity to thrive.

 

Are you interested in exploring this more?

Great! This is one of the services we are highly specialized and experienced in at Bloom! If you recognize these signs in yourself or a loved one and would like to explore the topic further, I invite you to schedule a free phone consultation with us. Together, we can delve deeper into understanding neurodivergence, addressing your concerns, and navigating the journey towards true self-acceptance and empowerment. Don’t hesitate to take this step towards a more inclusive and compassionate future. Embrace what makes you unique!

To schedule your free phone consultation, please click on the link at the top of this page or call 980-277-0155. We look forward to the opportunity to support you on your path to understanding and celebrating neurodivergence.

Warm regards,

Bloom Counseling Collaborative

Licensed Therapists

Could I Be Neurodivergent?