What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiverse conditions result from variations in neurological functioning. They are also referred to as ‘specific learning difficulties’
How common are neurodiverse conditions?
- Up to 10% of the population show some signs of dyslexia.
- About 5% of the population has dyspraxia.
- Around 1% of the population has an autism spectrum condition.
- Approximately 5% of the population has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
It is not uncommon for people to have more than one of these conditions. Many people reach adulthood without their difficulties being formally recognised despite the significant impact that they have on day-to-day living.
What is the impact of neurodiverse conditions?
- If you have weaknesses in particular skills which are out of kilter with your general level of functioning then you may have a neurodiverse condition.
- This can be confusing both for you, and for those around you, and may lead to distress and misunderstanding.
- It also often leads to underachievement and concerns about being able to cope with new situations such as beginning a new job or a new programme of study.
- It is not unusual for those with a neurodiverse condition to experience difficulties meeting the demands placed upon them and, in some cases, individuals may lose their jobs or be unable to complete their studies.
Those who feel that they may have a neurodiverse condition often benefit from gaining an objective, evidence-based view of their difficulties from an expert such as Louise who listens carefully to their concerns, is sympathetic, takes individual differences into account, and is able to suggest practical ways of managing areas of weakness.
What are the benefits of having an assessment?
- To allow you to find out whether or not you have a particular syndrome.
- To enable you to explore your strengths and weaknesses.
- To ensure that your needs are formally recognised.
- To identify adjustments that will enable you to succeed.
- To support applications for funding (such as Disabled Students’ Allowances DSAs or an Access to Work grant).
- To support applications for access arrangements for examinations and assessment centres.
Louise Hilliar is a Chartered Psychologist who provides assessments for a range of neurodiverse conditions. She is based in Bristol. Please contact her if you feel that you would benefit from an assessment.