What is neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity describes the natural differences in the way human brains work. People think, learn and experience the world in different ways, and these differences are a normal part of human variation.

Did you know…
Around 1 in 7 people in the UK are estimated to be neurodivergent?

In this article

• What neurodiversity means.
• The difference between neurodiverse and neurodivergent.
• Strengths often linked with neurodivergent thinking.
• Strategies that can help people thrive.

The term is often used when talking about conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia or dyspraxia. However, neurodiversity actually applies to everyone. Every brain is unique.

This week 16 to 22  March 2026, we’re marking Neurodiversity Celebration Week.

Here we’re taking a closer look at the language around neurodiversity, the strengths and talents often associated with neurodivergence, and some strategies that can help people manage challenges they may encounter.

So what exactly is neurodiversity?

Put simply, neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in how people’s brains function. These differences influence how we process information, learn, communicate and interact with the world around us. While the term is often used in relation to autism or ADHD, neurodiversity encompasses a wide range of ways of thinking and experiencing life.

Seeing neurodiversity differently

Recognising neurodiversity means understanding that these differences are not simply medical ‘disorders’.

While neurodivergent people may face certain challenges, they also bring valuable strengths, perspectives and talents.

Neurodiverse, neurodivergent… what’s the difference?

These terms are often used interchangeably, but they have slightly different meanings.

Neurodiversity refers to the natural differences in how human brains work across a group of people.

Neurodivergent describes an individual whose brain processes information differently from what is considered typical (sometimes called “neurotypical”).

These terms are not medical diagnoses. However, many neurodivergent people may identify with one or more conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia or Tourette’s syndrome. Others may simply recognise that their way of thinking and experiencing the world is different.

Neurodiversity: challenges and strategies

No two neurodivergent people will experience exactly the same challenges. Because of this, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to finding helpful strategies.

Organisations such as Autism by Experience  have created practical guides and resources, including tips and strategies that autistic people often find helpful, as well as examples of reasonable adjustments that can support people in education, employment and everyday life.

Similarly, ADDitude, a magazine focused on ADHD, regularly shares advice and strategies on managing time, health, relationships and other aspects of daily life.

While these resources are often created with neurodivergent people in mind, many of the ideas can be helpful for anyone.

At the same time, it’s important to recognise that strategies that work well for neurotypical people may take longer to embed for neurodivergent individuals — or may not work at all. This is why personalised approaches and reasonable adjustments can be so valuable.

Neurodiversity: strengths and talents,

In recent years, there has been a shift in how neurodiversity is understood. Increasingly, people are moving away from focusing solely on difficulties and instead recognising the strengths and abilities that often accompany neurodivergent thinking.

This perspective is sometimes called a strengths-based approach. It encourages us to recognise what people can do, rather than focusing only on what they may find difficult.

Many neurodivergent people bring qualities such as creativity, problem-solving ability, attention to detail, empathy and innovative thinking. The graphic below highlights some of the strengths and talents commonly associated with neurodiversity.

How do you experience the world differently?

Taking time to understand our own thinking styles can help us better support one another.

If you would like support with wellbeing, connection or mental health, East Surrey Community Connections is here to help.
Explore our groups, workshops and activities designed to support wellbeing in the community.

Original Article: Jacob Adams  Updates: Chon Donnelly