top of page
Search

Neurodiversity Celebration Week’25

  • Writer: Mike Douglas
    Mike Douglas
  • Mar 29
  • 4 min read

Following on the routine of posting after awareness and celebration days/ weeks, I wanted to reflect on Neurodiversity Celebration Week (17th to 23rd March 2025).


I'm quite liking utilising the dates as prompts, but not pressuring myself to post on the day with the added benefit of keeping the conversation going after the awareness/ celebration date.


So, let's talk neurodivergence.


Neurodiversity/ Neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism and ADHD are not mental health conditions. However, neurodivergent people can face mental health difficulties and struggle with emotional wellbeing. Being neurodivergent, in a world prodominatley built for neurotypical people, can lead to experiences and challenges that may increase the risk of stress, anxiety or depression, and research indicates that neurodivergent people are more likely to experience mental health issues than neurotypical people.


While neurodevelopmental conditions are not a mental health illness, some people do consider their neurodiversity to be a mental health condition. (As someone who is not a Medial or Health Professional or Practitioner) This reminds me of the discussion around self diagnosis. My personal opinion is that this doesnt matter, there is a person experincing and often struggling with something. At that stage picking appart 'what this is' isnt essental. If that is their understanding, and prefered lanaguage, then that's fine. If we were in a classroom learning about this in an educational setting, then that's an opportunity to discuss and develop knowledge and understanding.


There can be a link between neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions because of lived experiences, such as:

  • struggling with the differences in how you interact with the world and experience particular situations, which can lead to increased stress and anxiety.

  • negative attitudes and a lack of understanding from others, which can lead to loneliness, feelings of isolation and depression.

  • struggling with differences in understanding relationships and social situations.



"Sometimes, characteristics associated with neurodevelopmental conditions can be mistaken for symptoms of mental health conditions, which in turn can make it difficult to get the right support." - NHS Dorset.


I have read a few reports that indicate their belief between 15 and 20% of the population are neurodivergent. So this is no small group. However, there are vastly different experinces and conditions being wrapped together. Laura and I are both neurodivergent, however our experiences of our (different) neurodivergence are very contracting; and impact our lives very differently.


Each person's experience of their neurodivergence will be different, even if it is the same condition. Much like with mental health illnesses, while some of our symptioms can overlap or have similarities. Our overall lived experiences are nearly always differnt to someone else's. Neurodiversity is an 'umbrella term' used to group together a number of different conditions, including: autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and Tourette's.


Maybe, in part, this is why we haven't seen greater shifts in community spaces, places and interactions to make them more suitable for neurodivergent people?


Many social or community changes that I have heard asked for by other neurodivergent people are things that either wouldnt impact/ be noticed by someone else (neurotypical), or would also benefit them. Some example of this are:


Sensory Considerations:

  • Lighting:

    Use of soft and adjustable lighting to minimise glare and harshness. We have the hue lighting at home and we both really appreciate these.

  • Sound:

    Reduce background noise, provide quiet areas. I've seen some shopping centres offer quiet times. 

  • Smell:

    Ensure spaces are clean and free from strong or overwhelming scents, and consider fragrance-free products. 

  • Touch:

    Incorporate soft fabrics, fidget toys, and other sensory tools to promote comfort and engagement. Along with recognising not everyone wants to be touched, and the preferences some have for minimal contact.

  • Visuals:

    Use clear, concise signage with symbols and color-coding, and minimise visual clutter.  

  • Clear Signage:

    Provide clear and concise signage with symbols and color-coding to improve navigation. 

  • Defined Spaces:

    Create well-defined spaces with clear pathways and storage solutions to reduce overwhelm. Including quiet areas/ spaces, or even sensory rooms/ spaces.

  • Personalise:

    If you have the responsibility or opportunity to tailor a/ your spaces, involve neurodiverse individuals in the design process. 


These are all examples of things we consider when we are making plans for ourselves and for Henry. We are very mindful to look-out for cues that certain senses maybe heightened for him and how best we plan and support those sense if/ when needed.



What about Neurodiversity Celebration Week, what is it?

"Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by providing schools, universities, organisations, and others around the world with the opportunity to recognise the many skills and talents of neurodivergent individuals, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual." - Neurodiversity Week.


While there are many things we can begin to do and develop to make our spaces, places and conversations more accessible and welcoming (see the tips above for a start), this week is about celebrating the awesome successes and achievements of neurodiverse people. That could be 'celebrities' or well-known people you read about online; or it could be people you know, your friends, family and colleagues. Another benefit of writing this after the campaign week, is that there are no a range of resources, conversations and articles to read or listen to.


If you'd like to find out more or get involved in campaigns, fundraising and celebrating neurodiverse people check out some of the links at the end.


Thank you for sharing your time and headspace with me.




 

Blogger's note: This post does not include sponsored content. None of the services, projects, campaigns or charities mentioned have seen this post before it is published, nor have they instructed me on what to say. The views, experiences, thoughts and insights expressed in this post are my own. The links included are direct web links and are not affiliate links.


Additional links and signposting:




bottom of page