Neurodivergence Explained: What It Means and How to Know If It Applies to You

Recently, we’ve been using the term neurodivergent more widely, and for good reason. As awareness around mental health and neurological differences grows, many people are beginning to wonder whether their unique ways of thinking, processing, and interacting with the world might actually be a form of neurodivergence.

But what does that really mean? And how do you know if it applies to you? Let’s look at what neurodivergence is, how it shows up in everyday life, and how to begin identifying whether you might fall under this umbrella.

What Is Neurodivergence?

Neurodivergence is a non-medical term that refers to variations in the human brain regarding social skills, learning, attention, mood, and other mental functions. The term was at first used to describe people with autism but has since broadened to include a range of neurological differences. Neurodivergence includes (but isn’t limited to):

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

• Dyslexia and other learning differences

• Tourette syndrome

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

• Sensory processing disorder

• Some mood and anxiety disorders, like bipolar disorder

It’s important to note that being neurodivergent is not inherently negative. Neurodivergence is simply a different way of experiencing and interacting with the world rather than something that needs to be “fixed.”

Signs You Might Be Neurodivergent

While every neurodivergent person is unique, there are some common patterns and experiences that may point to underlying neurological differences. If you’ve ever felt “different” in ways you couldn’t quite explain, here are some signs that might resonate:

1. You’ve Struggled with Conventional School or Work Settings

Maybe you found it hard to sit still in class, focus on long lectures, or follow through on assignments, despite knowing you’re smart and capable. Or perhaps traditional 9-to-5 work structures feel draining. These challenges may not stem from laziness or a lack of discipline, but from a brain that operates outside the neurotypical mold.

2. You Feel Overwhelmed by Sensory Input

Do bright lights, certain fabrics, or loud environments leave you feeling overstimulated or anxious? Sensory sensitivities are a common feature of many forms of neurodivergence, especially autism and sensory processing disorder.

3. Social Interactions Can Be Confusing or Exhausting

If you often find yourself replaying conversations in your head, struggling to interpret social cues, or feeling completely sapped after group interactions, you may be experiencing social challenges related to neurodivergence. It often means your brain processes social information differently.

4. You Have Hyperfixations

Do you dive deeply into certain topics, hobbies, or activities to the point of losing track of time or forgetting to eat? This kind of intense focus, sometimes called hyperfocus or a “special interest,” is a common trait in both autism and ADHD.

5. You Mask or “Perform” to Fit in

Many neurodivergent people develop the skill of masking, which means adopting neurotypical behaviors to fit in socially or professionally. If you find yourself constantly adjusting how you speak, move, or react in order to appear “normal,” it could be a sign that your natural behaviors differ from societal expectations.

What to Do If You Suspect You’re Neurodivergent

• Learn more: Read about different forms of neurodivergence from credible sources. Online communities, books, and podcasts can give advice from both professionals and lived experiences.

• Connect with others: Finding neurodivergent communities, both online and in person, can reduce feelings of isolation and help you feel seen and understood.

• Practice self-compassion: Understanding your brain means learning to treat yourself with kindness. What you once labeled as “quirky,” “lazy,” or “too much” may actually be a part of how your brain is wired.

Should You See a Professional?

While a formal diagnosis isn’t for everyone, talking to a therapist about the way you process the world can give you clarity. Schedule a consultation with us today to discuss how Autism Therapy or ADHD Therapy can fit your needs. You don’t need to have all the answers right now; starting the journey of self-discovery is the most important first step.