By Don Elium, MFT
Neurodivergence refers to differences in brain function from the “neurotypical” norm. It encompasses a wide range of neurological and developmental conditions. Below are the primary disorders and conditions commonly considered neurodivergent:
Developmental & Neurological Conditions
1. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – Includes a range of traits affecting communication, sensory processing, and social interaction.
2. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – Characterized by difficulties with attention, impulse control, and executive functioning.
3. Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder, DCD) – Affects motor coordination, planning, and sometimes cognitive processing.
4. Dyslexia – Affects reading, spelling, and language processing.
5. Dyscalculia – Impacts mathematical reasoning and number-related skills.
6. Dysgraphia – Affects writing ability, fine motor skills, and sometimes language processing.
7. Tourette Syndrome (TS) & Tic Disorders – Characterized by involuntary motor and vocal tics.
8. Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) – Difficulties in processing and interpreting auditory information.
9. Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) – Challenges in processing sensory input (common in autism but also independent).
Mental Health Conditions Considered Neurodivergent
While mental health conditions are typically separate from neurodevelopmental disorders, some can be considered neurodivergent when they significantly alter cognitive processing and perception of reality:
10. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – Characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsions, with neurobiological underpinnings.
11. Bipolar Disorder – Affects mood regulation with periods of mania and depression, often linked to brain chemistry differences.
12. Schizophrenia & Schizoaffective Disorder – Involves altered perception, cognition, and reality processing.
13. Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) – Long-term trauma-related neurological changes affecting emotion regulation and executive functioning.
Intellectual & Learning Differences
14. Intellectual Disability (ID) – Significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviors.
15. Twice-Exceptionality (2e) – Individuals who are both gifted and neurodivergent, often with autism, ADHD, or learning disabilities.
Other Conditions Sometimes Considered Neurodivergent
16. Epilepsy – While primarily neurological, seizure activity can impact cognition, memory, and perception.
17. Synesthesia – A perceptual difference where senses overlap (e.g., seeing colors when hearing music).
18. Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) – Not a disorder, but a trait of heightened sensory processing and emotional responsiveness.
19. Nonverbal Learning Disability (NVLD) – Challenges with spatial awareness, social interpretation, and executive functioning.
Neurodivergence is a broad spectrum, and some individuals may have multiple co-occurring conditions (e.g., autism and ADHD, known as AuDHD). The term continues to evolve as understanding of neurological diversity grows.