31/07/2025
Let's unpack the Neurodivergent Umbrella ☂️🧠
You've probably heard the term "neurodivergent" – but what exactly does it mean? This helpful graphic from
illustrates it beautifully: it's an umbrella term that covers a wide range of natural variations in the human brain.
What is Neurodiversity?
At its core, neurodiversity is the idea that differences in brain function are just as normal and valuable as any other human variation (like ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation). It challenges the old view that there's one "normal" brain, and anything else is a deficit or disorder that needs to be "fixed." Instead, it celebrates these differences as natural and enriching.
What Does the Umbrella Cover?
As you can see under the umbrella, "neurodivergent" can refer to:
* Neurodevelopmental conditions: Such as ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia.
* Mental health conditions: Like Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD, GAD, Schizophrenia.
* Neurological conditions: Including Epilepsy, Tourette's/Tic Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)/Acquired Brain Injury (ABI).
* And many others, including conditions like Synesthesia, Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), C-PTSD, and more!
Who Coined the Term?
The term "neurodiversity" was coined in the late 1990s by Australian sociologist Judy Singer. As an autistic woman herself, Singer proposed this concept to shift the narrative around neurological differences from a medical model (focusing on deficits) to a social model (recognizing diversity as a strength and advocating for societal inclusion).
Why is it Important?
Understanding the neurodiversity umbrella helps us:
* Reduce Stigma: By reframing differences as variations, not flaws.
* Promote Inclusion: Encouraging environments that accommodate and celebrate diverse ways of thinking and interacting.
* Promote Self-Acceptance: For neurodivergent individuals to embrace their unique brains.
