The concept of neurodiversity has brought about a powerful shift in the way we think about neurological differences. In recent years, awareness and acceptance of neurodiversity has grown significantly. No longer viewed as deficits, neurodivergence is increasingly recognized as a natural variation in human cognition.
For adults, discovering that they are part of the neurodivergent community (whether through diagnoses such as ADHD or simply through self-awareness) can be transformative.
In this post, we’ll explore the concept of neurodiversity, what it means to be neurodivergent, and how embracing a neurodivergent identity as an adult can transform how you see yourself and navigate the world.
In this post, we’ll explore what it means to be neurodivergent as an adult, how embracing neurodiversity offers validation and empowerment, and how services like those provided by The Traveling Psychologist can help neurodivergent adults navigate their unique journeys.
What Is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity refers to the concept that there is no “normal” brain but rather a variety of different neurological makeups. This term recognizes that brain differences, such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and more, are natural variations of human experience, not deficits or disorders to be fixed.
The social model of neurodiversity promotes acceptance of these differences, shifting the focus from medical diagnoses and treatment to creating inclusive environments where neurodivergent individuals can thrive.
In the social model, the challenge lies not within the neurodivergent person but in how society is structured. Schools, workplaces, and social expectations are designed for neurotypical individuals, creating barriers for those who think and process differently. The goal is to advocate for changes in environments and systems, so neurodivergent individuals can fully participate and succeed.
Who Is Considered Neurodivergent?
Neurodivergent individuals have brain patterns that diverge from typical development. This includes a range of diagnoses, such as:
- • ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
- • Autism Spectrum Disorder
- • Dyslexia
- • Dyspraxia
- • Tourette Syndrome
- • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- • Bipolar Disorder
Many neurodivergent individuals are diagnosed in childhood, but it’s increasingly common for adults to realize they are neurodivergent later in life. For some, this realization comes after years of struggling with work, relationships, or personal well-being, not knowing that neurodivergence was at play. Recognizing neurodivergence can be a profound and freeing experience.
Neurodivergence in Adulthood
As adults, many neurodivergent individuals have spent years trying to conform to environments and expectations that aren’t suited to their cognitive styles. ADHD Adults, for example, might struggle in workplaces that prioritize multitasking, or they might find it difficult to manage daily tasks like paying bills or keeping track of time. This can lead to feelings of frustration, inadequacy, or even burnout.
Rather than seeing these challenges as personal failings, neurodivergent adults are encouraged to recognize that their environments may be the problem, not them. With this shift in perspective, neurodivergent adults can seek out accommodations, supports, and tools that work with their brains, rather than against them.
Adult ADHD: A Common Form of Neurodivergence
One of the most common forms of neurodivergence diagnosed in adulthood is ADHD. Many ADHD adults were not diagnosed as children, especially women and people of color, who have historically been underdiagnosed. Adult ADHD often looks different than childhood ADHD, with patterns of:
- • Time blindness: Difficulty managing time, often leading to missed appointments or chronic lateness.
- • Executive dysfunction: Struggling to organize, plan, or complete tasks.
- • Hyperfocus: Intense focus on tasks of interest, which can make switching tasks difficult.
- • Impulsivity: Making quick decisions or acting without considering long-term consequences.
These behaviors aren’t deficits, they’re simply part of how ADHD brains work. The problem arises when neurodivergent individuals are placed in rigid environments that don’t accommodate these traits.
The Power of Recognizing Neurodivergence as an Adult
For many adults, learning that they are neurodivergent is a life-changing moment. After years of struggling to meet neurotypical standards, receiving a diagnosis (or even simply acknowledging one’s neurodivergence) can bring a sense of relief. It provides an explanation for why they may have found certain tasks difficult or why they’ve always felt “different.”
Benefits of Understanding Your Neurodivergence
- • Self-Awareness: Recognizing that your brain works differently (and that this is okay) can help reduce the shame or self-criticism that many neurodivergent adults feel. Instead of focusing on what you struggle with, you can learn to celebrate the unique strengths that come with your neurodivergence.
- • Better Coping Strategies: Once you know you’re neurodivergent, you can adopt coping strategies specifically tailored to how your brain functions. For example, adults with ADHD might benefit from tools like visual schedules, timers, or apps designed to boost focus and productivity.
- • Improved Relationships: Understanding your neurodivergence allows you to communicate your needs more effectively to others. Whether it’s asking for accommodations at work or explaining your preferences in social situations, self-awareness can help improve personal and professional relationships.
Embracing Neurodivergence: Changing the Narrative
One of the most empowering aspects of being neurodivergent is reframing how you think about yourself. Society often labels neurodivergent individuals based on what they can’t do rather than celebrating what they can do.
For example, adults with ADHD may have trouble focusing on mundane tasks but excel in high-pressure situations where quick thinking and creativity are required. Instead of viewing neurodivergence as something to overcome, consider it a unique aspect of who you are – an identity that comes with its own strengths and insights.
Embracing Your Neurodivergence Means:
- • Celebrating Your Unique Perspective: Neurodivergent individuals often approach problems and ideas differently. This “outside the box” thinking can be a huge asset in innovation and creative fields.
- • Prioritizing Self-Care: As a neurodivergent adult, taking care of your mental and emotional health is crucial. Regular routines, breaks, mindfulness practices, and finding balance between overstimulation and under-stimulation are key to managing your well-being.
- • Connecting with the Neurodivergent Community: Finding a sense of belonging within the neurodivergent community can be life changing. Whether through online groups, local support networks, or friendships with other neurodivergent adults, connecting with others who understand your experience can reduce feelings of isolation and provide valuable support.
How The Traveling Psychologist Supports Neurodivergent Adults
As more adults discover their neurodivergence, the need for neuroaffirming evaluations and therapeutic support has grown. That’s where Jamie Freda, Psy.D. of The Traveling Psychologist comes in. Dr. Freda provides neurodivergent-affirming evaluations and therapy for adults, focusing on ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions.
She offers flexible, online and mobile services, meeting clients where they feel comfortable, such as at home, work, or on campus. Her evaluations emphasize strengths rather than deficits, and with immediate availability and a private-pay model, Dr. Freda ensures that busy adults can access support without long wait times. Her therapy services help neurodivergent individuals navigate their mental health and develop strategies for success.
The Future of Neurodiversity
As neurodiversity awareness continues to grow, society is beginning to recognize the importance of creating inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals. This is particularly important in schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings, where neurodivergent adults often need different types of support.
Looking forward, the neurodiversity movement will likely continue to challenge the “one-size-fits-all” approach to education, employment, and mental health care. By understanding and embracing neurodivergence, we can create a more inclusive world that celebrates diverse ways of thinking and being.
Services like those provided by The Traveling Psychologist can offer essential support on this journey, helping individuals find the strategies and tools they need to thrive.
Conclusion
Exploring neurodiversity as an adult can be a transformative journey. Whether you’ve known you were neurodivergent for a long time or are just now discovering it, embracing your neurodivergent identity is key to living authentically and thriving in all aspects of life.
Neurodivergence isn’t a deficit; it’s a difference, and with the right support and environments, neurodivergent adults can thrive.
