In this blog, we take a look at some Neurodiversity facts, data, impacts and values of the neurodivergent mind. We know quite a lot about the neurodivergent mind, and the conditions that are within and there is still much ongoing research that is being carried out. It is so important to be educated about the conditions as this is crucial to understand the mindset of someone with a neurodiverse condition.
Neurodiversity Facts & Data
Neurodiversity has come a long way since the 1990s and continues to be researched and investigated. However, there is still much we don’t know about neurodiverse minds. Here is some data that you might not know about neurodiversity and the power that the neurodiverse brain can hold.
- Between 48% – 56% of Neurodivergent minds do not have a “Learning Disability”.
- Around 70% of adults suffering from a neurodivergent condition say they’re not getting the help they need from social services and would feel less lonely with support.
- Around 1 out of 7 people are neurodivergent (Over 15% of the UK population).
- Most cases of neurodivergences are diagnosed between 3-7 years old.
- The cause, and cure for neurodiverse conditions is still being investigated.
- Boys are 5x more likely to have an ASD condition than girls.
The Impacts of Neurodivergent Minds
Having a neurodivergent mind is a good thing. You are able to soak up information and process it much better than those with neurotypical minds (minds considered to be normal in the mass population). Not only that, but being able to look at the world in a different light can make problem-solving much easier, not to mention for some individuals it can include long concentration spans too.
There are many positives to being diagnosed with autism, ADHD, or dyspraxia, there are also some challenges as well. These go from physical issues such as not being able to balance or have the best hand-to-eye coordination, to being easily distracted and or upset from little changes away from a regular pattern. All of these can be quite hard to overcome for someone struggling with a neurodiverse condition.
The Value of a Neurodivergent Mind
Having a neurodivergent mind is not an illness. It’s how an individual interprets information, processes it, and understands the world around them. The neurodivergent mind does come with many positive aspects and what may seem difficult to some, like completing a Rubics Cube, will be an easy task for others.
Understanding what neurodiversity is, and how each condition such as autism, ADHD, or dyslexia works can be an immense help when understanding the true value of a neurodivergent mind. Many famous faces such as Elon Musk, Bill Gates, and Greta Thunberg all have a form of a neurodivergent mind. This shows that greatness can be achieved with a neurodivergent mind and so shouldn’t be considered a limiting factor.
Conclusion
Having a neurodivergent mind does have its challenges, but when accepted, understood and managed effectively it is a blessing, even with the challenges. The value and benefits of having such a condition can outweigh the challenges when you look at your child or yourself as a gift.
You can find more information, support and guidance by following these links:
The Neurodiversity Hub – https://www.neurodiversityhub.org/