--- title: What is Neurodiversity? What it Means to Be a Neurodiverse Individual description: Learn about neurodiversity and why understanding its meaning is so important with the help of NeuroNav. image: https://neuronav.org/hubfs/family%20of%20four.jpg --- [Skip to content](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/what-is-neurodiversity#main-content) [![nn\_logo\_wide\_white](https://neuronav.org/hs-fs/hubfs/nn_logo_wide_white.png?width=2641&height=640&name=nn_logo_wide_white.png "nn_logo_wide_white")](https://www.neuronav.org/) - [For Individuals](https://neuronav.org/families) - [For Regional Centers](https://neuronav.org/regional-centers) - Knowledge - [Self-Determination Blog](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog) - [Events](https://neuronav.org/events) - [Newsletter Sign Up](https://neuronav.org/newslettersignup) - About Us - [Team](https://neuronav.org/about-us) - [Careers](https://careers.neuronav.org/home) - [GET STARTED](https://neuronav.org/free-consultation-main) # What is Neurodiversity? What it Means to Be a Neurodiverse Individual ![](https://neuronav.org/hubfs/family%20of%20four.jpg) You may have heard the term “neurodiversity” used in discussions surrounding mental health and disabilities, but what does this new buzzword mean? The answer can vary from person to person, which is exactly the point. Neurodivergence is all about existing outside of pre-determined boundaries and understanding unique perspectives.  Let’s take a closer look at how this term has grown to be a source of empowerment.   ## What is Neurodiversity? No two brains function exactly the same. This idea is the central line of thought behind [neurodiversity](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/23154-neurodivergent), which describes having a brain that works differently than others.  Neurodiversity generally refers to different learning methods, social preferences, communication styles, and ways of experiencing surroundings. The average or “neurotypical” person experiences these things differently or in a way that aligns with what society deems “normal.”  *Because of this, a neurodivergent person has different struggles and unique strengths. People who are neurodivergent can benefit from education and programs that help them develop their strengths using them to their benefit to live happy, healthy lives.* ### How does being neurodiverse affect people? A neurodivergent person may have different strengths and struggles than their neurotypical counterparts. This may mean their minds are better suited to some environments than others.  For instance, a person with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may experience sensory processing challenges that make a standard classroom or workplace stressful. Overlapping noises, smells, and lighting can make it difficult to focus. Or, the same person might need help with social situations and find it hard to communicate effectively with their colleagues. These sorts of challenges can affect self-esteem and confidence, personal relationships, and more. Understanding neurodiversity and accommodating those who live with it can help alleviate some of these risks. ## Examples of Neurodiverse Conditions While not all neurodiversity is linked to chronic conditions, many people with certain disabilities experience significant cognitive differences. Some conditions linked with neurodiversity include: - Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) - Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) - Down syndrome - Dyslexia - Intellectual disabilities - Mental illnesses like bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc. - Social anxiety disorder - Tourette syndrome ## Why Understanding Neurodiversity Matters Beyond learning to support friends, family, and others who are neurodivergent, understanding this topic has significant consequences for the world as a whole. We believe understanding neurodiversity matters for reasons like: - **Quality of Life.** Research shows that the way we talk about topics like neurodiversity shapes the way people live. Neurodiverse people who learn that their challenges result from being different – not defective – are generally happier and may even aim higher in their careers. - **Diverse Perspectives.** Understanding neurodiversity means understanding more people, plain and simple. When we only view the world through one lens, we miss opportunities to see things from a different angle.  - **Inclusion.** Most forms of bigotry are rooted in ignorance. A heightened understanding of neurodiversity will likely lead to better treatment and more inclusion. And the more people with disabilities and neurodivergence are in positions of influence, the better the world can become for others. ## Accessibility for Neurodiverse Individuals Being an ally to neurodivergent friends, family members, and colleagues means understanding no one’s brain works the same as yours and vice versa. What works and seems “normal” to one person can be the polar opposite for someone else.  To welcome neurodiverse folks into your workplace, school, or organization, consider ways you can make your services more accessible. Also, remember to think outside the box – abandon all ideas of the “right” way to get something done and be open to experimentation.  Above all else, treating others with compassion and understanding can make a significant difference. ## Final Thoughts Neurodiversity may be a relatively new word, but it’s a phenomenon that’s arguably natural to humans. Our differences are what drive us forward and push the envelope.  At NeuroNav, we know that embracing personal differences is a key part of self-advocacy. Our mission is to help people with disabilities and their families access the resources they need for success. To learn more about our services, [contact us today](https://www.neuronav.org/contact). ## Related Articles Dive into more topics and stories that resonate with your interests. Our handpicked articles offer a deeper look into the world of Self-Determination and beyond. [![Neurotypical vs. Neurodivergent](https://neuronav.org/hubfs/Neurotypical%20vs%20Neurodivergent.png)](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/neurotypical-vs-neurodivergent-the-spectrum-of-neurodiversity) [Self-Advocacy](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/tag/self-advocacy), [Neurodiversity](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/tag/neurodiversity), [Representation](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/tag/representation) ### [Neurotypical vs. Neurodivergent: Understanding the Spectrum of Neurodiversity](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/neurotypical-vs-neurodivergent-the-spectrum-of-neurodiversity) July 15, 2025 Neurodiversity is an important aspect of the human experience. We are all unique, and that means our brains work and... [Read more](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/neurotypical-vs-neurodivergent-the-spectrum-of-neurodiversity) [![A design of a series of brains that are different colors around the word neurodiversity](https://neuronav.org/hubfs/unnamed%20(20).png)](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/neurodiversity-celebration-week) ### [4 Ways to Embrace Neurodiversity in Honor of Neurodiversity Celebration Week](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/neurodiversity-celebration-week) March 28, 2024 Neurodiversity isn’t a disability or condition. It simply means that different minds work in different ways. Those... [Read more](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/neurodiversity-celebration-week) [![](https://neuronav.org/hubfs/image2.png)](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/inspiring-neurodivergent-individuals) [Mental Health](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/tag/mental-health), [Therapy](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/tag/therapy), [Autism](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/tag/autism) ### [5 Inspiring Neurodivergent Individuals Who Shaped the World](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/inspiring-neurodivergent-individuals) July 16, 2024 The idea of neurodiversity celebrates the valuable viewpoints and unique strengths of individuals with neurological... [Read more](https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/inspiring-neurodivergent-individuals) Check all articles ### Ready to Navigate Life with Us? Embark on your Self-Determination journey with confidence. 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If you have questions or concerns about NeuroNav services funded by your regional center, please visit the Department of Developmental Services website or call (916) 654-1987 for guidance on the process. ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "NeuroNav Self-Determination Specialist", "url" : "https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/author/neuronav-self-determination-specialist" }, "dateModified" : "2023-08-29T14:52:46.583Z", "datePublished" : "2023-08-29T14:52:46.000Z", "headline" : "What is Neurodiversity? What it Means to Be a Neurodiverse Individual", "image" : [ "https://neuronav.org/hubfs/family%20of%20four.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://neuronav.org/self-determination-blog/what-is-neurodiversity", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject" } } } ```