No, neurodivergence and PTSD are two distinct concepts. Neurodivergence is an umbrella term used to describe different ways in which the brain processes information, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Dyslexia.
Neurodivergent individuals typically experience difficulty in paying attention, difficulty comprehending and processing information, difficulty with social interaction, and difficulty managing emotions.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder caused by a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, war, rape, or serious injury. Symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, panic attacks, and feeling constantly on alert.
While some neurodivergent individuals may experience PTSD, the two terms are not interchangeable.
Is PTSD considered neurodivergent?
Yes, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) is considered to be a form of neurodivergent condition. Neurodivergence is an umbrella term for any type of neurological condition, disorder, or difference that is atypical from the average development and functioning of the brain.
It includes a variety of mental, physical, and emotional differences in how a person experiences the world. PTSD fits within this definition as it involves an abnormal response to extreme stress and potential physical, psychological, and emotional trauma that results in symptoms such as flashbacks, avoidance behaviour, and feelings of guilt and shame.
People experiencing PTSD often struggle with tasks that are considered to be fairly normal or routine for others. As such, it is considered to be neurodivergent.
Is trauma a form of neurodivergence?
Trauma is not necessarily a form of neurodivergence, but certain aspects of the experience of traumatic events may be described as being connected to various forms of neurodivergence. Trauma is a set of psychological, emotional, and physical responses to a distressing event, such as an accident or natural disaster.
While the experience of trauma can be uniquely personal and different for each individual, the physical, mental, and emotional reactions to a traumatic event can be similar. These reactions are often characterized as coming from the ‘fight, flight, or freeze’ response, which stem from a person’s sympathetic nervous system being affected.
This response can lead to changes in the functioning of the brain and nervous system, which may result in altered behavior and functioning. Neurodivergence, however, refers to variations in typical brain function, often related to disability.
Trauma, while it can certainly have a lasting impact on an individual, is generally seen more as an unpleasant experience than a form of disability or difference in the functioning of the brain.
What disorders fall under neurodivergent?
Neurodivergent is an umbrella term used to describe certain neurological differences such as intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, dyslexia, dyscalculia, Tourette Syndrome, and more.
Neurodivergent individuals may have challenges with social interaction, communication, coordination, flexibility of thought, executive functions, and/or challenges with sensory processing. While these conditions can be challenging, many neurodivergent individuals face even greater challenges due to systemic disadvantages and bias that can occur due to a lack of understanding and acceptance in the world.
There is a wide range of support, treatment, and therapies at their disposal to help neurodivergent individuals thrive.
Are people with anxiety neurodivergent?
Yes, people with anxiety can be considered neurodivergent. Neurodiversity is a term used to describe a variety of neurological differences – including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and other conditions.
Neurodiversity recognizes that neurological differences are a natural and valuable form of human diversity. While anxiety is not necessarily a neurological disorder, it can be an indicator of neurodiversity, as it is often caused by chemical imbalances in the brain.
Neurodivergence is seen in many human traits, not just in disabilities. An indication that someone has a neurological difference is if they are “atypical” in some way – they think differently, process information differently, communicate differently, or display different behaviors.
Many advantages are associated with being neurodivergent – such as increased creativity, out-of-the-box thinking, and increased resilience. People with anxiety can be neurodiverse and, in many cases, benefit from understanding and embracing their difference.
