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Neurodiversity describes a spectrum of neurological differences in humans, most often referring to neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, ADHD, or Tourette syndrome. Neurodivergent individuals think, feel, sense, interact, and behave differently than the anticipated majority. However, contrary to persistent stereotypes, and similarly to neurotypical people, they present on a complex spectrum of (dis)ability, challenges, and strengths.

There is now a robust research base indicating that neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan have worse physical and mental health outcomes, that their life expectancy is up to 30 years reduced, and that their needs are often unmet in healthcare, social care, educational, and social settings, with devastating effects on their wellbeing.

Traditional research assumes and focuses on perceived behavioural, emotional, and neurological deficits in neurodivergent populations, with little attention to societal impacts and bodily mechanisms. However, three main aspects likely factor into the heightened vulnerability to psychosocial stress of neurodivergent individuals:

1. Bodily mechanisms, such as altered autonomic nervous system function
2. Neurological differences in sensory and emotional processing
3. Living in a world that is built for and favours the neurotypical majority.

Identifying targets for intervention on all three levels is crucial for improving neurodivergent wellbeing.

Mood and Anxiety Research in Sussex and the Mood and Anxiety Clinical Academic Group hold monthly Zoom seminars from 4-5pm on the second Wednesday of the month, with the exception of August.