Artistic ceramic face planter with colorful blooms representing the beauty, diversity, and creativity of neurodivergent minds — Neurodiversity Wellness Collective.

The term neurodiversity is increasingly used in conversations about mental health, identity, and inclusion. It refers to the natural differences in how human brains function. Rather than being a diagnosis or label, neurodiversity is a way of understanding and accepting that not all brains operate the same way and that’s not just okay, it’s valuable.

Where the Term Neurodiversity Comes From

In the late 1990s, Judy Singer, an Autistic sociologist, coined the term neurodiversity to reframe conditions like Autism, ADHD, and dyslexia as natural variations in human cognition. The word was first published in a 1998 article by journalist Harvey Blume, who highlighted its significance alongside other diversity concepts, such as biodiversity and cultural diversity.

The Neurodiversity Movement

The neurodiversity movement grew from this idea, driven by Autistic self-advocates who shifted the conversation from viewing neurological differences as disorders to recognizing them as natural. The movement promotes acceptance, accommodation, and pride in neurodivergent identities, advocating for changes in education, workplaces, and healthcare systems.

Expanding the Scope of Neurodiversity

While the term originally focused on Autism, it now includes a broad range of neurological differences, such as ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, Tourette syndrome, obsessive-compulsive experiences, sensory processing differences, and highly sensitive people (HSPs). Neurodivergence is not confined to formal diagnoses. Many individuals self-identify based on their unique experiences and ways of thinking.

Diagram illustrating various neurodivergent identities including ADHD, autism, dyslexia, trauma, and more — designed by Neurodiversity Wellness Collective to promote inclusive mental health awareness. — Created by Neurodiversity Wellness Collective, this diagram highlights a range of neurodivergent identities such as ADHD, autism, and dyslexia. Keep in mind this visual reflects only some forms of neurodivergence

Embracing neurodiversity helps create a more inclusive and understanding world, where every individual’s unique neurological makeup is valued, and neurodivergent individuals can access affirming, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed counselling and psychotherapy services.