Neurodiversity Celebration Week: How to Support Neurodivergent Friends and Family

As we approach Neurodiversity Celebration Week (17 - 23 March 2025), we discuss some of the ways that you can support neurodivergent friends and family members.

What is neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is an umbrella term used to describe differences in the way that people’s brains work. In the UK, approximately 1 in 7 individuals or 14% of the population are neurodivergent, meaning their cognitive processes differ from what is typically expected.

Neurodiversity promotes the idea that neurological differences such as autism, ADHD, and other cognitive variations are simply part of the spectrum of human experiences, rather than seeing them as limitations.

People who are neurodiverse may have unique perspectives on life and see the world differently, making them a huge asset to workplaces, communities and societies. It is important to understand that people who are neurodivergent may need accommodations to help them navigate challenges and lead fulfilling lives.

Types of neurodiversity 

Neurodiversity encompasses a wide range of neurological variations including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and dyspraxia. Some sensory processing differences and other cognitive variations are also part of the neurodiverse spectrum.

Everyone has both talents and things that they struggle with, though people who are neurodivergent have a more pronounced variation between those strengths and challenges. 

Therefore, it’s important to help those who are neurodivergent make use of their strengths, whilst also reducing factors which might emphasise their challenges.

Common misconceptions with neurodiversity

There are several common misconceptions about neurodiversity, many of which stem from a lack of understanding or societal stigma. Addressing these misconceptions is essential for fostering an inclusive environment for neurological differences.

It's also true that not every neurodivergent person will know how they are impacted by their neurodiversity - in the same way that not everyone knows their strengths or areas for improvement. 

A common misconception of those who are neurodivergent is that each individual has the same traits, and therefore will require the same accommodations. The reality is that every single person who is neurodivergent is different.

For example, each individual with autism will have a huge variation in their abilities and experiences. As autism is a spectrum, everybody who lives with autism is different. While some autistic people need little or no support, others may need help from a family member or support worker.

Is being neurodivergent a disability?

Perhaps one of the most common misconceptions is that neurodiversity is synonymous with having both physical and cognitive disabilities.  

While some neurodivergent people may require accommodations or face challenges in certain environments, they often have unique strengths and talents, such as creative problem-solving, attention to detail, or innovative thinking.

Some people who are neurodivergent may also live with other conditions such as learning disabilities, acquired brain injuries or other complex needs, though these aren’t always necessarily linked.

Recognising neurodiversity means valuing each person's unique contributions and ensuring that they have the support needed to thrive in all types of environments.

Ways you can support neurodivergent friends and family

Supporting neurodivergent friends and family involves fostering understanding, empathy, and creating an inclusive environment. It’s important to communicate openly and understand each person’s preferences and boundaries, accommodating sensory and routine needs.

Encouraging autonomy and self-advocacy empowers individuals to thrive, whilst feeling valued and supported by those around them.

Just a couple of months after moving into a new supported living service in Trafford, run by Lifeways, Liam’s life has changed for the better. 

“Living here has given me a new start in life,” he said. “It’s given me stability and, even though I have an amazing family, being here has helped me realise that now my life makes sense. It’s given me a new start and a purpose.” 

“I’ve never really felt truly independent before, but now I do,” he explains. “The people here are kind and understanding and don’t judge the previous parts of your life. I haven’t always experienced that but here, there’s no judgement - just understanding,” he said.

Explaining neurodiversity to a child

Neurodiversity can be explained to a child in a simple and relatable way. Helping a child to understand that everyone’s brain works a little differently and that everyone has different talents is a good place to start.

Examples could be that some people might find certain things harder, like reading or sitting still, while they’re really good at other things, like solving puzzles or being incredibly creative.

Highlight how these differences make the world more interesting, and how we can all learn from and help each other.

Supporting neurodivergent people in building relationships 

Some people who are neurodivergent may struggle to build relationships. Here, it’s important to foster self-awareness, teach social skills, and create opportunities for authentic connections. 

Every individual will require a different approach to relationship building, though one thing which should be universal is giving each person the tools to recognise their strengths and unique qualities, which in turn will help them to form meaningful relationships.

It’s also important to create opportunities for neurodivergent individuals to meet like-minded individuals in environments that feel comfortable, such as small hobby groups or their supported living community. 

Ways Lifeways support neurodivergent individuals 

At Lifeways, we offer supported living and residential care across the country, providing a supportive environment for those who need it. 

Our dedicated support teams work to ensure that every person at Lifeways has the opportunity to take part in meaningful activities and life-enriching experiences, to enhance their quality of life and to provide a deep sense of fulfilment, joy and purpose. Start the search to find support near you.

For more information on the support and services we provide to those living with autism specifically, click here. Or, read our guide to supported living for adults living with autism.