Frequently Asked Questions

Neurodivergent affirming care recognizes and respects the experiences and identities of individuals who are neurodivergent. Neurodivergence includes conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others that reflect variations in the human brain.
This approach in care is rooted in the principle of neurodiversity, which asserts that neurological differences should be recognized and respected as any other human variation. It promotes the understanding that neurodivergent individuals are not broken or in need of fixing, but rather, they have unique strengths and experiences that contribute to human diversity.
Why is Neurodivergent Affirming Care Important?**

 1. Acceptance and Respect: 

Neurodivergent affirming care fosters an environment of acceptance where neurodivergent individuals can feel valued and respected for their unique experiences. 

2. Tailored Support: 

It ensures that the care and support provided to neurodivergent individuals are tailored to their unique needs and experiences, improving outcomes. 

3. Promotes Mental Health: 

By reducing stigma and promoting acceptance, neurodivergent affirming care can improve mental health and well-being among neurodivergent individuals.

4. Challenges Harmful Narratives:

It challenges the pathologization and stigmatization of neurodivergent individuals, promoting a more inclusive and accepting society. In our resource list below, you will find tools, guides, and information to help locate and understand neurodivergent affirming care. .

 Guidelines for Selecting a Neurodiversity-Affirming Mental Healthcare Provider

[Reframing Autism](https://reframingautism.org.au/guidelines-for-selecting-a-neurodiversity-affirming-mental-healthcare-provider/) has put together a comprehensive guide discussing what to look for in a mental healthcare provider, questions to ask potential providers, and other essential considerations.  

Autism and Health: A Collaborative Research Effort

 [Autism and Health](https://autismandhealth.org/) is a collaborative research initiative that aims to enhance the health and well-being of adults on the autism spectrum. The website provides a wide range of resources, including reports and publications on various aspects of autism and health.  

About Autism - Reframing Autism   

Reframing Autism's [About Autism] (https://reframingautism.org.au/about-autism/) page is an excellent resource for anyone seeking to understand more about autism from a neurodiversity perspective. The page provides information on the autistic experience, the neurodiversity paradigm, as well as insight into the autistic community and culture.

About ADHD Prevalence – ADDitude Magazine

With growing misinformation about the prevalence of ADHD and autism, this article from ADDitude Magazine offers a clear and evidence-based explanation for why ADHD diagnoses may appear to be increasing. It explores trends in diagnosis while highlighting that the actual prevalence of ADHD in both children and adults has remained relatively stable over time.

Read more:  Prevalence of ADHD in Adults, Children Remains Stable 

Hormones and Neurodivergent AFAB Individuals

Hormonal changes can significantly impact the mental health, sensory experiences, and overall wellbeing of neurodivergent individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB). This section provides a curated list of resources exploring how puberty, menstrual cycles, perimenopause, and other hormonal shifts may interact with neurodivergent traits such as those seen in autism and ADHD. These links offer evidence-informed information to support self-understanding, clinical insight, and inclusive care.

 Low Estrogen and ADHD Symptoms: Climacteric Care with HRT 

 PMDD, Autism and ADHD: Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder as Comorbidity 

NON-FICTION

Unmasking Autism: The Power of Embracing Our Hidden Neurodiversity. By: Devon Price.

I am Autistic. By: Chanelle Moriah

ADHD 2.0: New Science and Essential Strategies for Thriving.  By: Edward Hallowell and John Ratey. 

FICTION

The following are books with Autistic characters or written by Autistic authors.