Neurodivergent, what is it?

Neurodivergent is a term we have seen lately. It was actually used for the first time by Judy Singer in 1997. The term was intended to be comparable to the term biodiversity, which refers to the diversity of all living things. Neurodiversity refers to the variety of ways all people think and behave. The term “neurodivergent” refers to individuals whose neurological development and functioning differ from what is considered typical or neurotypical. It recognizes and embraces the natural neurological variations that exist in human beings.

Let’s look at some of the terms and what they mean:

• Neurodivergent: A noun referring to the diversity or variation of cognitive functioning in all people

• Neurodiverse: An adjective typically used to describe neurodivergent people

• Neurodivergence: A noun referring to cognitive functioning which is not considered typical or "normal"

• Neurodivergent: An adjective describing people who have a neurodivergence

• Neurotypical: An adjective describing people whose cognitive and social behaviors fall within traditional norms

Neurodivergent individuals may have different ways of thinking, perceiving, learning, and processing information compared to the majority of the population. Some examples of neurodivergent conditions include autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette syndrome, and others.

Neurodivergent individuals often have unique strengths and perspectives that can contribute positively to society. They may excel in areas such as pattern recognition, creativity, problem-solving, attention to detail, and divergent thinking.

The concept of neurodiversity promotes the understanding that neurological differences should be accepted and respected, rather than being pathologized or viewed as disorders that need to be "fixed." It challenges the notion that there is a single "normal" or ideal neurological profile. Instead, it emphasizes the value of embracing and accommodating neurodivergent individuals' needs, promoting inclusivity, and creating environments that support their diverse ways of experiencing the world.

It's important to note that the term "neurodivergent" is primarily used as an umbrella term to encompass a range of neurological differences, and it is ultimately up to individuals to self-identify as neurodivergent based on their personal experiences and diagnoses.

There are some challenges and helpful traits of neurodiverse individuals. Some of the helpful traits include:

1. Ability to stay focused on a topic or activity of interest for long periods

2. Outside-the-box thinking, which can lead to innovative solutions to challenges

3. Strong observational skills and attention to detail

4. Superior ability to recognize patterns, including in codes and behaviors

5. Having strong skills in areas such as music, art, technology, and science

Some of the challenging traits include:

1. Social communication difficulties, such as trouble making eye contact while talking or not reading body language

2. Speech and language challenges, such as stuttering and repetition

3. Learning challenges that may be related to difficulties with focus, reading, calculation, ability to follow spoken language, and/or problems with executive functioning (important skills, including working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control)

4. Unusual responses to sensory input (sensitivity or unusual insensitivity to light, sound, heat, cold, pressure, crowds, and other stimuli)

5. Unusual physical behaviors, such as rocking, expressing tics, blurting things out, and shouting at unexpected times

6. Inflexibility (inability to adapt or to change interests based on age or situation)

It is important to understand neurodiversity and how it can impact a person’s life. The number of people who can be described as neurodivergent is very high, and it is on the rise. Each neurodivergent individual can be very different from each other so it is important to understand the meaning. It is a relatively new concept that is gaining traction and understanding and it helps present neurological differences as normal variations instead of pathological disorders.

What is Depression?

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities. It is more than just experiencing occasional sadness or feeling down; depression affects a person's thoughts, emotions, behavior, and overall functioning. Depression is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition that has become prevalent in today’s society.

Some of the common symptoms of depression are:

1. Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness

2. Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed

3. Changes in appetite

4. Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or excessive sleeping

5. Fatigue or loss of energy

6. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt

7. Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.

8. Restlessness, or slowed movements.

9. Recurring thoughts of death or suicide.

Each of these symptoms can vary from person to person. It can be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Traumatic life events, chronic stress, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions can also contribute to the development of depression. It is treatable through counseling, medication, lifestyle changes, and support from a strong social network.

Counseling is an essential and effective treatment option for individuals dealing with depression. It provides a safe and supportive environment where individuals can openly express their feelings, thoughts, and concerns with a trained professional. Here are some key aspects of counseling for depression:

1. Therapeutic Relationship: Counseling establishes a therapeutic relationship between the individual and the counselor. This relationship is built on trust, empathy, and confidentiality, providing a non-judgmental space for the individual to share their experiences.

2. Emotional Support: Counselors offer emotional support, validating the individual's feelings and experiences. They help individuals explore and understand the underlying causes of their depression, identify triggers, and develop coping strategies.

3. Psychoeducation: Counselors educate individuals about depression, its symptoms, and how it affects their lives. Understanding depression can help individuals gain insight into their experiences and reduce self-blame or stigma.

4. Goal Setting and Problem-Solving: Counselors assist individuals in setting realistic goals and developing strategies to overcome challenges. This can include addressing issues related to relationships, work, self-care, and lifestyle changes that may contribute to depressive symptoms.

5. Supportive Techniques: Counselors may employ various techniques to promote emotional well-being, such as relaxation exercises, mindfulness, stress management, and self-care strategies. These techniques help individuals develop healthy coping mechanisms and manage stress effectively.

It is important to find a qualified and licensed counselor or therapist experienced in working with depression. They can provide personalized guidance and support tailored to the individual's needs. Additionally, counseling can be combined with other treatment approaches, such as medication or lifestyle changes, for comprehensive care.

Remember, seeking counseling for depression is a proactive step towards better mental health. It can provide valuable insights, coping skills, and support necessary to navigate the challenges of depression and work toward recovery.

What is Health At Every Size?

Health At Every Size (HAES) is an approach to public health that seeks to de-emphasize weight loss as a goal and to reduce stigma to larger body people. Pursuing health is neither a moral imperative nor an individual obligation, and health status should never be used to judge, oppress, or determine the value of an individual. Every individual has their own body shape and size that is the best for them. Every body type, shape, and weight should be treated with respect. Unfortunately in our diet culture, we stigmatize the larger body individuals. The truth is, is that you can be healthy across a wide range of body shapes and weights. The ideal body weight for you is whatever makes you feel strong and energetic and lets you lead a normal life. The basic premise of Health At Every Size is that your well-being and habits are more important than any number on the scale.

This may sound scary to many individuals because of the diet culture we live in. We are told to try this, or that, to lose more weight, just to be healthy. This is not backed up by science but it is a multi-billion dollar culture that feeds off of individuals’ insecurities and offers a “quick fix”. Diet culture can and does lead to eating disorders and disordered eating.

There are 5 principles to Health At Every Size as listed on the ASDAH website:

1. Weight Inclusivity - Accept and respect the inherent diversity of body shapes and sizes and reject the idealizing or pathologizing of weights.

2. Health Enhancement- Support health policies that improve and equalize access to information and services, and personal practices that improve human well-being, including attention to individual physical, economic, social, spiritual, emotional, and other needs.

3. Respectful Care- Acknowledge our biases, and work to end weight discrimination, weight stigma, and weight bias. Provide information and services from an understanding that socio-economic status, race, gender, sexual orientation, age, and other identities impact weight stigma and support environments that address these inequities.

4. Eating for Well-Being- Promote flexible, individualized eating based on hunger, satiety, nutritional needs, and pleasure, rather than any externally regulated eating plan focused on weight control.

5. Life-Enhancing Movement- Support physical activities that allow people of all sizes, abilities, and interests to engage in enjoyable movement, to the degree that they choose.

What is Intuitive Eating?

Intuitive Eating is a self-care eating framework, which integrates instinct, emotion, and rational thought and was created by two dietitians, Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch in 1995. Practicing intuitive eating honors both your physical and mental health. Intuitive Eating is weight inclusive and aligned with Health At Every Size, which I will discuss in another blog post.

Intuitive Eating takes an anti-diet approach. Intuitive Eating is about trusting your body to make food choices that feel good to you. It allows you to let go of the rigidity around food that may be influenced by family, friends, media and diet culture. There is no ban or restriction of certain foods because no food is “good” or “bad”. The main purpose to to focus on foods that work best for you physically and mentally.

There are 10 principles of Intuitive Eating:

1. Reject the Diet Mentality

2. Honor Your Hunger

3. Make Peace with Food

4. Challenge the Food Police

5. Discover the Satisfaction Factor

6. Feel Your Fullness

7. Cope with Your Emotions with Kindness

8. Respect your Body

9. Movement- Feel the Difference

10. Honor Your Health- Gentle Nutrition

Doing all of this at one time without the help of a professional can be scary and overwhelming. Let me help you walk through the process of honoring your body, and being gentle with yourself.