Neurodivergence is an umbrella term used to describe the natural differences in how people’s brains process information, emotions, and attention. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are two of the most well-known forms of neurodivergence.
While being neurodivergent does not automatically mean someone will experience mental health difficulties, many neurodivergent people experience challenges because our world is largely designed with neurotypical ways of thinking and learning in mind.
What are some characteristics of autism and ADHD?
Autistic people may experience sensory sensitivities, differences in the way they prefer to socialise and communicate, and a strong preference for routine and predictability. Strengths of autistic people can include creativity, attention to detail, lateral thinking, excellent analysis skills and memory, and honesty.
ADHD is often associated with difficulties in attention, organisation, impulse control, and regulating emotions. At the same time, people with ADHD often demonstrate strengths such as high energy, creativity, high capacity for focus in areas of interest, adventurousness, willingness to take risks, and effective problem-solving skills.
What are some challenges associated with ADHD and autism?
Having a brain that processes information differently from the majority of those around you can create unique pressures, especially in a world designed with neurotypical needs in mind.
Common challenges may include:
- Exclusion and misunderstanding: Repeated experiences of being misinterpreted, left out, or expected to adapt can lead to feelings of isolation, self‑doubt and low self-esteem.
- Sensory sensitivities: Heightened responses to sounds, lights, textures, or other stimuli can cause overwhelm and distress in everyday environments.
- Emotion regulation and relationships: Some neurodivergent people experience intense emotions, which can make navigating relationships more complex.
- Barriers in learning and work: Completing tasks outside areas of interest, sustaining focus, managing time, and meeting deadlines can be particularly challenging in schools or workplaces designed for neurotypical styles.
- Masking: Hiding natural behaviours to “fit in” can be exhausting and, over time, lead to burnout.
These challenges don’t come from being neurodivergent itself but from living in environments that aren’t designed to support diverse ways of thinking and experiencing the world. This can result in anxiety, stress, depression and difficulty navigating relationships.
How can a psychologist support autistic people and people with ADHD?
There are many ways a psychologist can support autistic people and people with ADHD. Support is always tailored to the individual, but may include:
- Building understanding and self-acceptance: Supporting individuals to better understand their diagnosis and develop a more compassionate view of themselves.
- Processing emotions around diagnosis: Exploring feelings such as grief, relief, or confusion following a new or late diagnosis.
- Navigating sensory needs: Understanding sensory sensitivities and developing strategies to manage environments in a way that supports wellbeing.
- Developing everyday strategies: Providing tools to support organisation, time management, problem-solving, and navigating relationships.
- Supporting emotional regulation: Exploring emotional experiences and strengthening skills for managing overwhelming or intense emotions.
- Challenging unhelpful self-beliefs: Addressing internalised stigma and building self-esteem and self-worth.
- Providing support through transitions: Offering guidance during life changes such as starting university, moving house, or changing jobs.
- Treating co-occurring mental health concerns: Supporting the person in managing other concerns such as anxiety, depression, or burnout.
For some people, a psychologist may also be the first to notice signs of underlying neurodivergence. Recognising these differences can be an important step in tailoring support to the individual’s needs and strengths. It can also make therapy for other concerns—such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties—more effective and meaningful.
How can Peaceful Mind Psychology help?
At Peaceful Mind Psychology, we are committed to providing neuro-affirming care that recognises and values individual differences and strengths. Several of our psychologists have a particular interest in supporting people with ADHD and/or autism. They can work with you to deepen your understanding, build self-acceptance, and develop strategies to navigate a world often geared toward neurotypical ways of thinking.
If this is something you’d like to explore further, please get in touch with our friendly admin team.