What does neurodivergence mean?

Have you ever felt that your brain just works a little differently from others? Maybe you find it hard to focus in noisy spaces, or you often miss social cues that others seem to pick up naturally. Perhaps someone close to you thinks, learns, or reacts in ways that don’t quite match what’s expected, and you’re wondering what that might mean.

Neurodivergence is a term that helps describe these kinds of differences. It’s not a diagnosis in itself, but a way of understanding that there’s no one “right” way for a brain to work. For many Australians, learning about neurodivergence has brought relief, self-understanding, and a sense of belonging.

What is neurodivergence exactly?

Neurodivergence is a term used to describe brains that function differently from what's considered typical. That might include how someone focuses, communicates, moves through tasks, handles sensory input, or relates to others. These differences aren’t flaws but are part of the diversity that makes us human.

In the words of the Australian Institute of Family Studies, “Neurodivergent brains are different, not better or worse.”

Common types of neurodivergence

While every person is different, here are some of the more widely recognised types of neurodivergence:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD): Autistic people often experience the world in ways that include differences in communication, sensory processing, or routines. In a 2022 survey, the Australian Bureau of Statistics found that around 1.1% of Australians are autistic.

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): This involves patterns of inattention, impulsivity, or hyperactivity. ADHD can affect how someone manages time, focus, and decision-making.

• Dyslexia: It’s a learning difference that affects reading and spelling. According to the Australian Dyslexia Association, about 10% of Australians live with dyslexia.

• Dyscalculia and dysgraphia: These impact mathematical reasoning and writing skills, often showing up in school but continuing into adulthood.

• Dyspraxia: Also known as developmental coordination disorder, it can make movement, organisation, or planning tasks more challenging.

• Sensory processing differences: Some people are highly sensitive to sound, light, texture, or movement, which can lead to overwhelm or shutdown in everyday settings.

Less common types of neurodivergence

Other differences may be less widely discussed but still fall under the neurodivergent umbrella, including:

• Tourette syndrome: Involves repetitive movements or vocalisations called tics.

• Synaesthesia: A blending of senses. For example, seeing colours when hearing music.

• Executive functioning difficulties: These can include trouble organising, following through on tasks, or managing time, even without a formal diagnosis like ADHD.

• Obsessive-compulsive patterns: In some cases, rigid thinking or sensory-based rituals may relate to underlying neurological differences.

Challenges in living with neurodivergence

1. Difficulty accessing diagnosis

Getting a formal diagnosis can be complicated. You might deal with long wait times, high costs, or a shortage of professionals who understand neurodivergence, especially outside major cities.

Some people also feel that existing assessments don’t fully capture their experience, particularly if they are women, non-binary, or from culturally diverse backgrounds.

2. Environments that don't meet your needs

Schools and workplaces are often designed with a one-size-fits-all mindset. You might struggle with loud spaces, unclear instructions, constant social demands, or rigid routines. These settings can make it hard to show what you are capable of, even when you have the skills and motivation to succeed.

3. The pressure to hide who you are

Many neurodivergent people feel pressure to mask their traits so they can fit in. That might mean forcing eye contact, mimicking social behaviours, or suppressing natural responses.

While this can help you avoid judgment, it often comes at a cost. Over time, masking can lead to exhaustion, anxiety, or a sense of disconnection from yourself.

When neurodivergence gives you an advantage

Neurodivergence isn’t only about difficulty. When people recognise the unique ways their brain works, they can turn what they once considered a challenge into a competitive edge.

Some advantages that neurodivergent individuals tend to have are:

• ability to deeply focus on topics of interest

• unique problem-solving skills

• creativity, innovation, or strong memory in specific areas

• a different perspective that can challenge groupthink or spark new ideas

Some employers in Australia are beginning to value neurodiversity for exactly these reasons. Inclusive hiring practices can help workplaces become more adaptable, thoughtful, and innovative.

Tips to thrive with neurodivergence

Living well with neurodivergence often means adjusting your environment and expectations. Here are some tips.

1. Understand what works for you

Spend time noticing your patterns. What drains your energy? What helps you recharge or focus? Knowing your preferences can help you plan your day in a way that feels more manageable.

2. Change the environment, not the person

If work or study environments are making things harder, think about what might help: headphones, flexible hours, written instructions, or even a quieter space. Small changes can go a long way in creating a more conducive environment.

3. Reach out for support

Supportive communities - online or in person - can offer both practical advice and a sense of understanding and belonging. Talking to a neurodivergent-affirming therapist or coach may also help you unpack your experiences and explore tools that work for you.

4. Ask for an assessment if you want to

If you believe a formal diagnosis could be helpful, your first step is to speak with your GP. They can refer you to a psychologist, psychiatrist, or, for children, a paediatrician.

A diagnosis is not essential for everyone, but it may open the door to better understanding and tailored support options. You might even be eligible to use Medicare or the NDIS, depending on your circumstances.

How about neurotypicals?

While you’re learning about neurodivergence, you might also come across the word neurotypical. This term usually refers to people whose brain development and functioning align with what’s considered the statistical or social norm.

Neurotypical people tend to process information, communicate, and respond to their environment in ways that match the expectations set by schools, workplaces, and broader society. That doesn’t mean life is easy for everyone who’s neurotypical, but many systems are designed with their thinking and behaviour patterns in mind.

It’s helpful to understand this not as a comparison of better or worse, but simply as different. Neurotypicality describes one way of experiencing the world. Neurodivergence describes another.

When we recognise both, we can better understand each other and start to create spaces where more people feel comfortable, supported, and able to thrive.

Final thoughts

Learning that your brain works differently can bring a lot into focus. You might start to understand why certain things have felt harder than they should, or why you’ve needed more time or space to feel comfortable.

If you’ve felt out of step with others or pressured to meet expectations that never quite matched how you operate, recognising neurodivergence can offer relief. It can help you make sense of your past and consider new ways to move forward.

You don’t have to figure everything out at once. Take time to reflect on what supports you best. Talk to others who share similar experiences. If you’re open to it, connect with a therapist who understands neurodivergence and can help you explore next steps.

What matters most is finding what works for you and building a life that allows you to show up fully as yourself.