Neurodivergent conditions in adults can be quite rare to diagnose, as this usually happens when you are a child. Neurodivergent conditions are lifelong and can’t be cured as such, but with more and more adults finding out that they have a neurodivergent mind and condition – there are many thoughts that an adult may wish to explore. In this blog, we take a look through the adult neurodivergent mind, and what it is like to be diagnosed with a neurodiverse condition as an adult.
What is it like to have a Neurodivergent Mind as an Adult?
Being an adult with a neurodivergent condition can be quite a challenge. But it is easier than being diagnosed as a child because as an adult, we can understand the conditions better and consider ways to manage them. As an adult, it is much easier to pinpoint and identify triggers that can cause upset or distress. We also have the ability to be able to realise the positives of a neurodivergent condition, such as extended focus, or creativity to name a few.
Although some young adults still attend college and university, going to work is part of an adult’s day. Work can be challenging for people with neurodivergent minds, and can make it quite stressful especially if your manager or the organisation do not understand neurodiversity and what they need to put in place. Employers and businesses around the world should be open to diversity, disability and difference as each individual will be a great addition to the workforce but unfortunately, this is not always the case and it can make working difficult.
As mentioned, living with a neurodiverse mind is usually not as difficult as a child with a similar condition. As an adult, the challenges are different when considering how it affects your thoughts and feelings, going to work, or trying to create a family or having a child s all part of living with a neurodiverse condition.
How do Adults Understand Neurodiversity?
Unlike children, adults are often much more accustomed to what neurodiversity is, and how it works for them and other adults around them. Adults who suffer from a neurodiverse condition such as autism, or ADHD have often been diagnosed and have had support provided to them from friends and family, as well as professional services such as the NHS.
Adults are usually able to understand what it means to have their condition, and how to deal with its challenges. For example, specific sounds for someone with autism might make them very upset, but during childhood – a natural reaction would be to be upset and to go away from the sound. As an adult, running away or being very upset is not always possible, so as an adult, you can think of alternative sounds or focus on other sounds around to try to relax your mind.
Conclusion
Overall, having neurodiverse conditions such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD or autism to name a few from a list of conditions, can be beneficial for life after childhood. Being an adult with one of these conditions, understanding what the condition does, and how it affects how we think and feel is much easier to accept and process than it is for children. If you’re struggling with the effects of one of these conditions and need support you can reach out to The Neurodiversity Hub at: https://www.neurodiversityhub.org/
