Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2024
Happy Neurodiversity Celebration week! We're spreading positive news about neurodiverse conditions, and busting some myths that we hear all too often, below (source here). Why don't you join us at our neurodiversity celebration week pop-up event at Byrom Street - we'll be in the social space 11-1pm giving out free toasties from the food van and freebies from our spin the wheel, you could win...
- Sweets
- Sensory Lights
- Weighted Blankets
- Fidget Toys
- Unmasked: The Ultimate guide to ADHD, autism, and neurodivergence book by Ellie Middleton.
MYTH #1 ADHD is just a lack of willpower.
ADHD is a neurological condition, not a willpower issue. It involves difference in braining wiring which impact attention and selfregulation.
MYTH #2 People with ADHD can’t focus on anything.
Those with ADHD can experience intense focus or hyperfocus on tasks they find engaging. The challenge is often in controlling where and how focus is applied.
MYTH #3 ADHD is Overdiagnosed.
ADHD diagnosis involves thorough assessment. Increased awareness has not led to overdiagnosis, but rather to recognising previously overlooked cases.
MYTH #4 Everyone is a little autistic.
Not everyone is “a little bit autistic”. Anyone can have autistic traits like sensory differences, anxiety or being introverted but having autism means you have a neurological difference. By using this expression you are dismissing and diminishing the reality and struggles an individual on the autism spectrum, experiences in their everyday lives.
MYTH #5 Autistic people are shy and introverted.
Not all autistic people are shy or introverted. However autistic people might socialise in a different way than neurotypical people, but this doesn't not mean that’s it’s wrong or a deficit, it’s just different. Many individuals with autism crave social connections but may find it challenging due to sensory difficulties or communication differences.
MYTH #6 Autistic people lack empathy.
Many people with autism are highly empathetic, though they may express it differently.
MYTH #7 Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is about liking things neat, clean and organised.
While OCD can manifest as excessive cleaning rituals or compulsive organising, these acts bring the individual an amount of distress not enjoyment.
MYTH #8 Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is just about cleanliness and organisation.
OCD is is characterised by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviour which can be a fear of harming yourself or others by mistake, a fear of contamination or a need for symmetry. Compulsive behaviours may include counting, ordering and arranging, hoarding, asking for reassurance or repeating words in their head.
If you would like support, or would like to learn more about the work we do for our neurodiverse students, why not check out our disabled and neurodiverse community today.
