How Does Neurodivergence Impact Mental Health?
Neurodivergence is just a way of saying that some people have different mental or neurological functions compared to what's considered 'typical.' It's all about how the brain develops before birth and during childhood, and it can change how someone communicates, behaves, and reacts to the world around them.
Did you know that an estimated 15-20% of children and young people in the UK are neurodivergent? It's a fascinating reminder of the diverse minds shaping our future.
Some forms of neurodivergence include:
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Dyslexia
Dysgraphia
Dyscalculia
Tourette’s syndrome
This isn't a complete list. Some neurodivergent individuals might have more than one diagnosis, while others might not have any diagnosis at all. In the world of neurodiversity, being neurodivergent doesn't have to mean having a disorder, deficit, or disability—it’s just a different way of thinking and learning. Just like everyone else, neurodivergent people have their own unique skills and strengths that we should encourage and develop.
When it comes to mental health, the impacts of neurodivergence are multifaceted.
Young people with neurodivergent profiles often find themselves navigating a world built for neurotypicals, which can ramp up stress and anxiety. Imagine the sensory sensitivities linked with autism making everyday settings overwhelming—leading to discomfort and anxiety. On top of that, social challenges common in many neurodivergent conditions can lead to feelings of being misunderstood and isolation, affecting emotional wellbeing and potentially increasing the risk of depression.
The Challenges
Unfortunately, neurodiverse youth can face unique challenges when transitioning into adulthood:
Difficulty finding employment: Many neurodiverse youths face challenges in finding employment, often because the job application process can be daunting, or they might lack the skills and experience typically required.
Lack of support: Neurodiverse youth often face challenges in education and the workforce due to a lack of support and necessary accommodations. By providing the right resources, we can empower them to unlock their full potential and thrive in their pursuits.
Limited access to medications: With excruciatingly long NHS wait times, neurodiverse individuals with a diagnosis often find themselves in a frustrating limbo, struggling to get the immediate help they need to overcome symptoms and truly thrive. This waiting game can be a significant hurdle in their journey towards a better quality of life.
Stigma: We also shouldn't forget that the stigma and misconceptions around neurodivergence can worsen mental health challenges. Young people might encounter bullying or exclusion at school, which harms their self-esteem and pushes them further away from social groups. This misunderstanding can also block access to the right support, with symptoms often misidentified or dismissed, leaving neurodivergent youth without the mental health resources they truly need.
Despite these challenges, it is crucial that we recognise the strengths and positive traits often associated with neurodivergence. This includes:
creativity
critical thinking
out-of-the-box thinking
problem-solving abilities
high levels of concentration
attention to detail
detailed factual knowledge in topics of interest.
By understanding and embracing these attributes, we can unlock a world of potential and enrich the lives of our young people who think differently.
The Importance of Neuro-Affirming Mental Health Support in Schools
Our schools and educational systems have a big impact on the mental health of neurodivergent students. By creating an environment that recognises and supports their unique needs with neuro-affirming practices, we can make a real difference.
But how can we do this?
A big part of neuro-affirming mental health support is offering personalised interventions that highlight individual strengths instead of focusing on what's lacking. This approach really acknowledges and validates the experiences of neurodivergent students, creating a more inclusive learning environment. By training staff to recognise and support diverse learning profiles, we can significantly cut down on the stress and anxiety often heightened by traditional educational settings that enforce strict conformity standards.
Plus, adding sensory-friendly spaces in schools can give students a break when they feel overwhelmed by all the usual classroom sensory inputs. Setting up peer support networks and programs lets students connect with others who've had similar experiences, helping build a sense of belonging and community.
Implementing neuro-affirming frameworks is super important for reducing the stigma around neurodivergence. When schools adopt these approaches, they not only boost students' wellbeing but also help improve academic performance and social integration. By building a culture of understanding and acceptance, educators can really empower neurodivergent students to thrive both in their studies and emotionally, which benefits their long-term mental health.
By embracing neurodiversity and offering inclusive mental health support in schools, we can help build a more accepting and tolerant society. As these students grow up and join the workforce, they'll carry with them a better understanding of diversity and inclusivity, igniting a positive ripple effect for future generations.
But, it's important to remember that bringing neuro-affirming practices to schools takes ongoing effort and teamwork from everyone involved. This means educators, parents, policymakers, and, most importantly, the students. We need to hear their voices and include them in decisions that affect their education and well-being. Upskilling staff with neurodiversity training to recognise and support diverse learning profiles, we can significantly cut down on the stress and anxiety often heightened by traditional educational settings that enforce strict conformity standards.
How We Can Prioritise Acceptance and Belonging
In supporting the younger demographic, acceptance and belonging have become super important for the wellbeing of neurodivergent young people. Navigating a world that often feels unwelcoming can be tough for them. That’s where youth centres come in—they're essential in providing a comforting community. These places not only help young people feel like they belong but also offer fun activities that boost self-esteem and social skills.
Youth hubs are in a great spot to meet the diverse needs of neurodivergent adolescents. They offer tailored programs and create supportive environments, empowering young people to express themselves freely without worrying about judgement from those that understand their powers. The programs often focus on inclusivity and understanding, which are key for building acceptance among peers. In these safe spaces, neurodivergent youth can connect with others who share similar experiences, helping to reduce the feeling of isolation that can worsen mental health challenges.
Fortunately, youth hubs like ours team up with mental health pros and dedicated mentors to offer resources that tackle their specific needs. This all-around approach makes sure young people not only feel accepted, but also get the essential tools they need to handle life's challenges better, and in a way where they feel empowered. On top of that, the community vibe and support in these hubs help shield them from societal pressures, boosting resilience and a positive self-image.
And that's just the beginning. At YUAF, we've got an amazing double-decker Outreach Media Bus rolling through local communities, ready to ignite the creative spark in young individuals. This is their chance to break free from mental health stressors and dive headfirst into music production, lyric writing, radio presenting, podcasting, and so much more. Our mobile Youth Hub is all about empowering vulnerable young people to find their voices and hone the skills they’re passionate about.
Creating spaces where neurodivergent youth feel accepted and valued can really boost their mental health. Youth hubs play a huge role in this by encouraging young people to explore who they are and grow into well-rounded individuals. By promoting acceptance and belonging, our centres aren't just improving the lives of neurodivergent youth—they're also helping build a more inclusive society with more creative ideas.
This Blog was kindly written by Hayley Broughton-McKinna, Training Director at PMAC, who are a provider of workplace mental health/wellbeing training to non-profits and businesses across the UK.
Comentários