Welcome to part two of our blog, exploring the distinction and connection between mental health issues and neurodiversity.
Part 1 (What’s The Difference Between Mental Health Issues and Neurodivergence? – NeuroBridge) outlined key differences between these experiences, highlighting that mental health issues are – in most cases – a temporary state which resolves with the right input and support. Whereas neurodivergence involves innate, lifelong differences in how a person experiences and interacts with the world around them.
Here in part 2, we will delve into the connection between neurodivergence and mental health issues, illuminating why mental health issues can be more prevalent in neurodivergent individuals.
We close this blog by exploring a number of tips to help people support their mental health, regardless of their neurotype.
The Link Between Neurodivergence and Mental Health
As we’ve explored, neurodivergence is not a mental health issue in of itself, but it’s common for neurodivergent individuals to also experience mental health issues, often due to the unique challenges they face in daily life, and a lack of access to informed and meaningful support.
Up to 50% of Autistic individuals will experience depression, revealing a significant increase in risk when compared to 5% of the general population (National Autistic Society, World Health Organisation).
Similarly, it’s estimated up to 50% of ADHD adults also have an anxiety disorder (van der Meer, et al. 2017). Which, again, highlights a significantly higher risk in comparison to 4% of the general population (World Health Organisation).
This phenomenon, known as co-occurrence, doesn’t mean neurodivergence directly causes mental health issues. Rather, it suggests certain factors associated with being neurodivergent – like facing stigma, social isolation, or difficulty adapting to neurotypical expectations – can increase the risk of developing mental health issues.
Factors Influencing Co-Occurrence
Living in a world primarily designed for the neuromajority is challenging for neurodivergent people. Let’s explore a few factors which can add to mental health issues experienced by neurodivergent individuals:
Many neurodivergent individuals – particularly Autistic or ADHD people – can struggle processing sensory information such as lights, sounds, temperatures, or textures. Environments abundant with sensory stimuli, like the office, often overload their processing systems resulting in cognitive fatigue, stress, and anxiety.
Those with Dyscalculia often experience anxiety surrounding numerical tasks. Dyslexic individuals can face similar issues when facing reading or writing tasks. Over time this can lead to immense frustration and low self-esteem when employers don’t understand how to accommodate their needs, leaving them battling against their brain’s natural functionality.
A key facet of the Autistic neurotype is differences in social communication, whether that’s difficulty recognising non-verbal communication, making minimal eye contact, or being confused by abstract language. Such issues can make it difficult for Autistic employees to engage with their colleagues, often resulting in social isolation – or even harassment and bullying – which increases their susceptibility to mental health issues like anxiety or depression.
A Common Misconception
A false belief held by many, is that all neurodivergent individuals struggle with mental health issues, or that neurodivergent traits are symptoms of mental illness.
It’s essential to recognise that neurodivergence is a unique way of processing the world, and is only present in roughly 20% of the population (CIPD), while mental health issues typically arise in response to life’s difficulties, and can affect anybody.
Understanding this distinction allows us to support neurodivergent individuals without conflating their neurotype with mental illness.
Universal Tips For Supporting Your Mental Health
Regardless of one’s neurotype, optimal mental wellbeing is something everyone can work toward. Here are some universal tips to help you support your mental health and create a more balanced, fulfilling life:
1. Know Yourself
Taking time to understand how you think, feel, and respond to situations can provide insight into your mental health needs. For neurodivergent individuals, this might involve learning more about specific traits or tendencies, such as how sensory sensitivities influence their mood, or how social interactions affect their emotional state. Similarly, for anyone facing a mental health issue, identifying early signs of stress or triggers can help prevent a situation from escalating. Knowing yourself empowers you to advocate for your needs and access the right kind of support.
2. Find Supportive Communities
Building connections with others who understand and respect your experiences is incredibly valuable. For neurodivergent individuals, this might mean connecting with neurodivergent support groups, or allies at work, who can provide practical and emotional support. For those facing mental health issues, seeking out understanding friends, family, or professionals can make a big difference. Shared experiences create a sense of community, reminding us that we’re not alone in our journey.
3. Practice Mindful Self-Care
Mindfulness, movement, and self-care routines benefit everyone. Practices like deep breathing, exercise, or setting aside time for joyful activities can help regulate stress and boost mood. For some, this might mean developing a consistent routine to build stability. For others, it could involve scheduling regular breaks to recharge. Neurodivergent individuals might benefit from sensory-friendly activities, while those facing mental health challenges may find that journaling or meditating helps avoid being overwhelmed by their thoughts.
4. Seek Professional Help When Needed
There’s no substitute for professional support when it comes to mental health. Therapists, counsellors, and other professionals can provide personalised strategies and care to help individuals of all neurotypes manage mental health issues effectively. For neurodivergent individuals, finding a professional with a keen understanding neurodivergence can enhance the support experience, ensuring they receive strategies most suitable to their unique needs. For neurotypical individuals, professional guidance can provide the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience.
Conclusion
Understanding the distinction and connection between mental health issues and neurodivergence helps us create a more inclusive, supportive environment for all. Mental health issues can affect people of any neurotype and may require specific treatments or strategies to manage effectively. Neurodivergence, on the other hand, is a natural variation in how people experience the world and often requires societal adjustments to achieve true inclusivity. By recognising these connections and respecting everyone’s unique experience, we can work toward a society that values mental wellbeing for everyone.
Whether you’re neurodivergent or neurotypical, remember to prioritise your mental health. Embrace practices that support your wellbeing, connect with supportive communities, and reach out for help when needed.
Mental health is a lifelong journey, and with the right support, everyone can thrive.
References
National Autistic Society
National Autistic Society. (n.d.). Depression and Autism. Retrieved, from https://www.autism.org.ukWorld Health Organisation
World Health Organisation. (n.d.). Mental health statistics. Retrieved, from https://www.who.intvan der Meer et al., 2017
van der Meer, M., Oerlemans, A. M., van Steijn, D. J., Lappenschaar, M. G. A., de Sonneville, L. M. J., Buitelaar, J. K., & Rommelse, N. N. J. (2017). Are Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Different Manifestations of One Overarching Disorder? Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, 22(1), 69–87. https://doi.org/10.xxxxCIPD Report 2024
Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. (2024). Neuroinclusion at work report 2024. Retrieved, from https://www.cipd.co.uk
