The term "neurodivergence" describes how the human brain and nervous system naturally vary, leading to variances in cognition, perception, and behaviour. The word covers a variety of disorders, including Tourette's syndrome, ADHD, dyslexia, and autism. Although neurodivergent people may encounter difficulties in conventional social and educational contexts, they also bring distinctive perspectives and strengths to the table. Growing neurodiversity awareness and a movement to support and promote neurodivergent people have been going on in recent years.

The notion that various methods of thinking and processing information might be advantageous is one of the fundamental principles behind neurodiversity. In typical settings, skills like pattern identification, attention to detail, or inventiveness are frequently underappreciated or underestimated by neurodivergent people. A person with dyslexia, for instance, might find it difficult to read and write but thrive at visual-spatial reasoning. Even though they may struggle with social interaction, autistic people may excel in subjects like maths or music. We can build more inclusive and varied communities if we acknowledge and build on these abilities.

At the same time, it's critical to recognise the difficulties that people with neurodiversity may have. Numerous neurodivergent people encounter stigma, prejudice, and social exclusion. They could have issues with sensory overload, poor executive functioning, or emotional control. Societal beliefs that neurodivergent features are "deficits" or "disorders" that need to be repaired or cured can make these problems worse. Many neurodivergent people contend that it is society's lack of understanding and accommodations rather than their own differences that are distressing, not their own differences.

Adopting a neurodiversity paradigm is one way society can become more inclusive and supportive of people with neurodivergent abilities. This entails appreciating the distinctive viewpoints and skills that people who identify as neurodivergent individuals bring to the table as well as the fact that neurodivergent features are a normal component of human variation. It also entails making modifications and concessions in conventional settings to better assist neurodiverse people. For instance, enabling flexible study or job arrangements, creating sensory-friendly settings, and allowing for different communication techniques can all significantly improve the lives of neurodivergent people.

Self-advocacy is a crucial component of the neurodiversity movement. People who are neurodivergent have the right to be heard and to take part fully in society. They may contribute to dispelling stigma and fostering understanding by sharing their stories and speaking up for their needs. Sharing personal experiences, teaching others about neurodiversity, and promoting legislative changes that advance inclusiveness and accessibility can all be part of this.

To reclaim language and identity, there is a rising movement within the neurodiversity community. To emphasise that their autism is an essential component of who they are, some autistic people choose to use identity-first language (e.g., "autistic person") rather than person-first language (e.g., "person with autism"). Similarly, some dyslexic people may choose to use terminology like "neurodivergent" or "dyslexic" rather than "learning disabled" or "struggling reader" to avoid pathologizing their differences. We may contribute to the development of a more welcoming and inclusive society by adopting language that is respectful of and affirming of the identities of neurodivergent people.

In summary, neurodivergence is a normal and valuable component of human variation. We can build more inclusive and diverse communities by acknowledging and valuing the skills and viewpoints of neurodivergent people. The difficulties that neurodivergent people may encounter, such as stigma, prejudice, and social isolation, must also be recognised and addressed.