The Stages of Acceptance After Your Child’s Neurodivergent Diagnosis.
NeurodivergentAn individual whose brain functions differently from the (usually neurotypical) perception of what is “normal”. For example, an individual with autism, Asperger's syndrome, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, ADHD, OCD or Tourette Syndrome. Diagnosis: A Parent’s Journey
A child’s diagnosis of ADHD, AutismA complex developmental condition which can significantly affect verbal and non-verbal communication and social interaction in a range of ways., or another neurotype begins a complex emotional journey. Parents often move through stages of uncertainty, relief, grief, intense learning, and a pivotal shift in perspective—from seeing deficits to understanding differences. This path isn’t linear, but leads to a place of deeper acceptanceThe act of taking, receiving or agreeing with something without attempting to change or protest it., advocacyThe act of publicly supporting or recommending a particular cause, enabling others to have their voices heard., and celebrating your child’s unique strengths.
Neurodiversity and Anxiety: Supporting Your Child and Yourself
As parents and carers, we know that anxiety isn’t just an occasional worry for our neurodivergentAn individual whose brain functions differently from the (usually neurotypicalThe term given to a group of people or an individual who is not neurodivergent, and who does not have a condition such as Asperger's syndrome, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, ADHD, OCD or Tourette Syndrome. ) perception of what is “normal”. For example, an individual with autismA complex developmental condition which can significantly affect verbal and non-verbal communication and social interaction in a range of ways., Asperger’s syndromeAsperger’s Syndrome (AS) or Asperger’s is an autism spectrum condition characterised by challenges with neurotypical social interactions and nonverbal communication., dyslexiaA condition that involves difficulty in learning to read or interpret letters, words and other symbols., dyscalculiaA condition which involves specific and persistent difficulty in understanding numbers which can lead to a range of difficulties with mathematics., dyspraxiaA condition that may affect physical coordination, balance, movement, learning, living skills, fine motor skills, emotional regulation, social interaction, time management, planning and personal organisation skills., ADHD, OCD or Tourette Syndrome. children—it’s often a constant thread running through daily life. […]