Neurodiversity
Our world is not designed to meet the needs of the neurodivergent. Autistic, ADHD, AuDHD young people and children, and those with dyslexia, dyspraxia can find they struggle to navigate a neurotypical society that doesn’t really understand them, however well-meaning.
In particular, school can be particularly difficult in terms of sensory issues such as noise and crowded spaces, as well as with new rules and expectations for the child or young person to understand.
Masking
Young people may unconsciously work hard to mask or conceal their differences. Masking can be very successful in helping them ‘fit in’ but the downside is that it can be exhausting and emotionally draining and even lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. The extra challenges of adolescence with hormonal shifts as well as more complicated social lives, can be particularly challenging for neurodivergent teenagers.
Missed or late diagnosis
In addition many children and young people, particularly girls, pass under the radar and are not diagnosed as their neurodivergent traits are not ‘obvious’ enough to others. But in recent years research has shown that some presentations of autism are more subtle and less in line with stereotypical ideas of what an autistic person is like. Frequently these autistic people are girls, whose challenges are not spotted or are misdiagnosed. It is now understood that assessment criteria for autism were designed with predominantly male, high-needs individuals in mind. So many autistic people miss out on the support they need.
I work with clients to identify their own specific needs, triggers and challenges to help them achieve a more easeful life.
In a similar way ADHD is often not spotted in children. For example it tends to be associated with hyperactivity and disruptive behaviour while the more subtle trait of inattention can be missed. These children and young people may be good at masking and camouflaging their traits, but this can become harder as they get older and demands of school or work require more attention, organisation, and self-management.
Autism and ADHD frequently coincide and I work with the young person to explore what is happening for them, where difficulties may arise and what might help.
Autism, identity and gender
If you’re autistic, you might find that questions such as, “Who am I?” or “Where do I fit?” feel especially strong. You may think deeply about yourself, notice differences between you and others, or feel unsure about labels that people expect you to fit into.
Some autistic young people find themselves questioning or exploring their gender as part of this wider search for identity. Having a safe space to talk can help you make sense of your thoughts and feelings, at your own pace, without judgement or pressure.
As an autistic person myself, my approach is strongly Neurodivergence and LGBTQ+ affirmative.