NEURODIVERGENCE & MENTAL HEALTH OVERLAP
The Overlap Between Mental Health Issues, Burnout, and a Neurotypical World
In a predominantly neurotypical society, neurodivergent individuals may experience significant burnout due to the constant pressure to conform to societal expectations and norms. This is often a result of navigating a world that is not designed for or mindful of their needs. Burnout can manifest as emotional exhaustion, difficulty functioning in daily life, a sense of alienation, and much more. This is something we see frequently in clients, especially if they have not yet understood that they are neurodivergent.
Mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and stress can be more pronounced in neurodivergent individuals when they are constantly required to mask or suppress their natural ways of thinking and being. For example:
- An autistic person may experience social fatigue from forced social interactions that do not align with their communication style or sensory needs.
- An ADHDer may struggle with executive functioning demands, like organisation and time management, leading to feelings of inadequacy and frustration.
The stress of trying to adapt to a neurotypical world can contribute to higher levels of burnout, often leading to a sense of just "surviving" rather than thriving.
The Role of Environment and Approach in Mental Health
The environment plays a crucial role in the mental well-being of neurodivergent individuals. When the environment is accepting and adaptive—whether at home, in the workplace, or within the therapy room—it can lead to an atmosphere where individuals can thrive. This might include creating sensory-friendly spaces, implementing flexible work schedules, or promoting open communication about individual needs.
We work together with neurodivergent individuals with empathy, flexibility, and understanding—rather than focusing on "fixing" them. We do not view their neurotype as an illness that needs treating, but as a way of being htat needs understanding. By acknowledging and accommodating each person’s differences, the environment becomes more conducive to their well-being, allowing them to flourish. A neuroaffirmative approach to psychotherapy also means offering validation and acknowledgment of the individual’s struggles, while also helping them discover how they can leverage their unique ways of thinking for personal growth. Walking with you in this process is one of the things we love the most.
