Neurodiversity & Mental Health

This month, we’re focusing on neurodiversity and how it intersects with our mental health.

We will highlight mental health resources specifically supporting the needs of neurodiverse folk, as well as detail our activities across the month.

What is neurodiversity?

According to the NHS, Neurodiversity is a term used to describe a variation in normal human evolution which means some people think different to others. Neurodiverse conditions include autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia, tourette syndrome and complex tic disorders.

Nearly 70% of neurodivergent employees experience mental health issues according to a study from Willis Towers Watson

The study looked at data from over 4100 people employed by medium/large companies in 2022, and found that just 25% of neurodivergent employees felt financially secure and emotionally balanced.

Anxiety disorders are common amongst autistic people, with approximately 40% of autistic people having symptoms of at least one anxiety disorder. This is compared to roughtly 15% in the general population – a stark difference.

Our friends at Raise The Game had a discussion with Alice Cooper at Autistica about moving from Autism Awareness to Acceptance in this powerful article.

Resources

We’ve collated some resources that are dedicated to specifically supporting neurodiverse people:

• Autistica – Autistica are the UK’s leading autism research and campaigning charity. Their mission is to create breakthroughs that enable all autistic people to live happier, healthier, longer lives. They do this through research, shaping policy and working with autistic people to make a difference.
• ADHD and Mental Health – Young Minds have brought together a guide for young people looking into ADHD and mental health.
• Neurodiversity Week – Resources on ADHD, Autism, DCD, Dyspraxia, Dyslexia and Dyscalculia. Neurodiversity at work, hiring toolkit and professional resources.
• Neurodivergent Insights – Book recommendations, how to find a Neurodivergent affirming therapist, and updates on other content from Neurodiverse writers.