Latest news with #neurodiversity
BBC News
19 hours ago
- Health
- BBC News
Police pilot new scheme for those living with neurodiversity
A police force has launched a pilot scheme in a bid to improve the way emergency services support those living with and Cornwall Police said the pilot, for Cornwall, would involve the use of green wristbands knows as "neurodiversity IDs" (NDIDs). NDIDs can be worn by individuals who are neurodivergent and provide information about the person when scanned so that responders can give them the correct help. The aim, Devon and Cornwall Police said, was to improve communication between police officers and other emergency services and the wearer. Police worked with The Autistic Community of Cornwall, the National Police Autism Association and the National Youth Neurodiversity Council to create the wristbands. The wristbands are designed to share details of a person's neurodivergence, how an individual communicates best, any medical needs and emergency contact details for next of kin."We know that emergency situations can sometimes be overwhelming," said PC John Holland."The wristbands are about putting the person at the centre of our response so we can make sure our communication and care is appropriate from the very first moment. "We know that we haven't always got it right in the past but these wristbands offer an opportunity for us to continue to progress and improve the service we provide to our neurodiverse community."Devon and Cornwall Police said it hoped the project would be rolled out across Devon and Cornwall if it proved to be successful.
Irish Times
2 days ago
- General
- Irish Times
Neurodiversity and relationships: ‘It's about recognising where you both struggle and where you both thrive'
From the outside, some couples make relationships look easy. As though they were always meant to be together and simply 'get each other'. But relationships are often more complicated than they seem, and the younger generations are navigating an increasingly challenging relationship landscape. With more people being identified as neurodiverse, the dating scene becomes even more intricate. 'As humans, our need for connection is vital, not just for survival, but for companionship, love, and even growing a family,' says Afrah Al-yufrusi, psychosexual and relationship therapist with the Evidence-Based Therapy Centre in Galway. 'For those of us who experience neurodiversity, how we connect and relate to others may look different. We are influenced by early relationships, cultural experiences, personality traits, and how our brains are wired. These neurodivergent traits can affect how we navigate the world and, of course, how we form and maintain relationships.' READ MORE When we consider relationships at a base level, they come with a nuanced understanding that everyone is different. How people connect and develop relationships is often influenced by personalities and past experiences. Relationships are always complex. Couples navigating neurodiverse connections may find it more intricate as they seek to embrace the neurological differences within their relationship. 'Let's not sugar-coat this, relationships are challenging for everyone,' says Al-yufrusi. 'Ari Tuckman says: 'A good relationship pushes you to become a better person.' They take hard work, commitment, communication and reflection. The idea of 'happily ever after' in movies doesn't prepare us for the real, everyday challenges. When things don't match our expectations, frustration can build, disappointment sets in, and suddenly we're questioning our self-worth.' A neurodiverse relationship comes with potential challenges such as a difficulty in expressing emotions, experiencing different sensory sensitivities, and miscommunication. Awareness, understanding and appreciation of neurodiverse differences is important in a relationship that may also be affected by potential social stigma. 'In neurodivergent relationships, these challenges don't disappear, they're often just amplified,' says Al-yufrusi. She explains this by using the example of a partner with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) who might forget repeatedly to pay a bill, despite being capable and competent, leading to arguments and financial stress within the relationship. 'These small issues can create distance, as partners may start to turn away from each other rather than addressing the problem together,' she says. 'It can be especially difficult when consistency seems out of reach. Over time, this can lead to feelings of isolation and a widening emotional gap.' [ The key to a happy long-term relationship? Permission to let yourselves be boring Opens in new window ] Another example is a partner with autism who might look for more structure or predictability in their life and relationships. They may find it difficult to show empathy in the way their partner expects and express their love through different actions other than words or physical contact such as maintaining the house. Al-yufrusi says that when these small but significant differences aren't recognised, it can leave both partners feeling misunderstood. Not everyone expresses love in the same way and it's important to recognise that neurodivergent individuals may not express and receive love in ways that are considered to be more traditional, such as receiving gifts, words of affirmation, or acts of service. 'If you and your partner have different ways of expressing love, there can be disconnects, but it's all about understanding and bridging the gap. It's not about changing the person. It's about embracing the unique ways in which they express affection,' says Al-yufrusi. 'It's important to be flexible and mindful of how these languages play out in a relationship.' Recognising neurodivergence can be challenging, especially when a partner masks their neurodiverse traits. The signs and patterns will be there, however. Some of these include a partner who is easily distracted, forgets plans, or needs more time to process information or emotions. 'However, it's important to remember that neurodivergence is not an excuse for bad behaviour in a relationship,' Al-yufrusi asserts. 'Sometimes, it can be challenging to distinguish between neurodivergent traits and a situation where your partner may not be valuing you or the relationship. It's crucial to take a step back and assess the situation, whether it's a communication issue related to neurodivergence or a deeper relational issue that needs attention.' Understanding your own neurodivergent traits is the first step. When you know yourself, you're better equipped to communicate your needs and understand your partner's — Afrah Al-yufrusi It's important to identify that a person with ADHD may be challenged by attention regulation and may seem disengaged during conversations, non-committal or forgetful. Someone with autism may experience sensory overwhelm, prefer routines, or struggle with certain social cues. The signs are subtle, says Al-yufrusi, but are important to notice. 'If you're in a relationship and recognise these behaviours in yourself or your partner, it might be worth considering whether neurodivergence is playing a role,' she says. 'Sometimes, this realisation comes after a diagnosis in our children, or it may surface as we reflect on our own childhood experiences or recognise patterns in our relationship. It could also be sparked by something we've read or seen. For some, it can be particularly challenging when they reach perimenopause, and the strategies they've relied on no longer work, making it harder to mask their neurodivergent traits.' The best advice Al-yufrusi can give to readers navigating a neurodiverse relationship is to encourage a personal level of self-awareness. 'Understanding your own neurodivergent traits is the first step,' she says. 'When you know yourself, you're better equipped to communicate your needs and understand your partner's. It's about recognising where you both struggle and where you both thrive.' Within this self-awareness, Al-yufrusi suggests that self-regulation is also crucial as couples can learn to manage their emotions, especially in times of stress, by creating space for both partners to reconnect and communicate effectively. Miscommunication is another obstacle. As one partner is struggling with sensory overload, the other can feel ignored or dismissed. [ Adult diagnosis of ADHD: 'It was such a moment of clarity' Opens in new window ] 'When you understand the underlying cause, whether it's ADHD, autism, or any other neurodivergent trait, you can approach it with more empathy,' says Al-yufrusi. Communication, empathy, understanding and mutual respect encourage a relationship to thrive. 'Neurodivergent relationships can be both challenging and deeply rewarding,' says Al-yufrusi. 'The key to making them work lies in understanding yourself, your partner, and the neurodivergent traits that shape your interactions. With self-awareness, good communication, empathy and patience, neurodivergent relationships can thrive, offering growth, connection, and beautiful moments that are unique to each couple.'
Forbes
3 days ago
- Health
- Forbes
The UK ADHD Task Force Interim Report: Three Wins And Two Blind Spots
The view from a motor vehicle side mirror through the window, with a blind spot mirror. The UK's ADHD Task Force Interim Report has several important points to make which, if implemented, will improve the picture for ADHDers in the UK substantially. The report also has two serious blind spots – physical health and environments. Three Welcome, Myth Busting Wins Firstly, the report is clear that ADHD remains under diagnosed in the UK, a not a rampant, uncontrolled Tik Tok trend. Using data comparisons from other European nations, the report indicates that in the UK we are behind on identifying the likely number of ADHDers and behind on providing treatment. Facts. Secondly, the report is very clear that ADHD is a spectrum, and that people who are not diagnosed yet, or may fall just under the clinical diagnosis threshold still require adjustments and supports. The overlaps with Autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia and other neurodivergent conditions is made clear and provides a much-needed call for holistic diagnosis pathways, rather than the inefficient one-at-a-time approach. Thirdly, the report is cautious but optimistic about digital shortcuts. The authors acknowledge that digital tools can be helpful for reducing data collection time, but clear that they are not effective at making the final diagnosis decision. They quote research that suggests digital health interventions such as companion or behavioural support apps work best in combination with a coach or health professional. This is a helpful and pragmatic approach and role models how healthcare policy can co-opt digitisation without a wholesale depersonalisation takeover. Busting the myth that apps can replace services very welcome indeed! Win Four: Support As Standard The Taskforce have made it clear that support should be offered based on presentation of difficulties, rather than after diagnosis. This means that schools and workplaces can start offering simple strategies and adjustments without waiting for 'permission' – a needs-led model. This is more efficient and more person-centred – our aim here is to optimize performance in education and school, to facilitate ADHD careers and social inclusion. The need for some noise-cancelling headphones and a study skills workshop is patently obvious, we don't need a psychological assessment to tell us who deserves these things the most. We need to offer basic support as standard. Blind Spot One: Health Whilst these are very helpful, they don't explain, or address the substantial rise in referrals over recent years. Population prevalence is reasonably stable, but people who once sailed under the radar are increasingly unable to cope and dropping out of school and the labor force at record numbers. This is a national emergency, which won't be solved by improved diagnosis, or psychological support, alone. We need a more biopsychosocial analysis to meet the need of the crisis. The Royal Society of Medicine are exploring the link between ADHD and the Covid Pandemic. Post-viral syndrome and the overlap of ADHD with hypermobility syndromes may have contributed to much worsening symptoms of brain fog, concentration difficulties and fatigue. Whilst cooccurrence with other neurotypes is featured in the report, the overlap with hypermobility syndromes is not. Physical symptoms are particularly debilitating and exacerbation of these following Covid correlates with the timelines of increased referrals. The Royal Society's conference brings together a multi-disciplinary team to review treatment pathways and start syncing between cardiology, psychiatric, immunology and rheumatology specialists. The Taskforce needs to incorporate their findings. Blind Spot Two: The Built Environment 'When a flower fails to thrive, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower itself.' Sensory sensitivity for ADHDers is well-evidenced, meaning that there are some senses (typically noise) which are heard as louder, or brighter, or more intense. ADHDers have, in the past few decades, had to submit to an increasingly busy and beep-filled world, which is a significant change and exacerbates the impact of ADHD on education, careers and stress levels in general. Add that to the lack of movement in our increasingly sedentary world, and we have a significant drain on each individual's ability to cope, which wasn't there ten, twenty years ago, correlating with the longer tail of the rise in referrals. I spoke with Kay Sargent from HOK who has recently published a book with her insights, 'Designing Neuroinclusive Spaces.' She reports: 'The spaces we occupy have a profound effect on us – our health, well-being, ability to focus and be productive. Not everyone responds to stimulation in the built environment the same way. Some people are hypersensitive, or sensory avoiders, and may be overwhelmed by sounds, bright lights, busy spaces and need calmer, more structured spaces. But others are hyposensitive and actual seek out added stimulation. They might need to listen to music or be able to move and fidget and prefer some invigorating environments.' However, Sargent is hopeful that we can address these issues by leveraging the science of design, not just the art of design, to create spaces where all can thrive. 'Businesses can assess their existing space, identify barriers and address the ones that are easy to change. That can include creating zones for quiet, focused work; allowing individuals to have some choice in where they sit and options for various sensory thresholds; reducing visual clutter within shared spaces; ensuring the color palette is aligned with the activity within that space and paint/change the ones that are triggering; improve wayfinding within the space; relocate noisy activities or equipment away from shared work spaces; incorporate sound dampening materials, masking, or headphones to address acoustics; and create areas where all can have access to natural daylight and views.' The Biopsychosocial Analysis Diagnosis and working on your personal development is only one part of the ADHD journey. If physical health and the built environment are driving a larger proportion of ADHD challenges in recent years, ignoring them in the taskforce will reduce the effectiveness of the investment. An evidence-based approach to policy is so very welcome, and a joined-up ecological analysis is required to understand the current situation. The report is very comprehensive on the psychology of ADHD, it needs to add the biology and sociology to get ADHDers back on track in the UK. 'Designing for neuroinclusion isn't about creating special spaces for some people,' says Sargent. 'It's about recognizing the full spectrum of human needs and building environments that support everyone's ability to thrive.'
CBS News
3 days ago
- Health
- CBS News
Stanley Cup surprise visit delights children at Boca Raton autism center
The Stanley Cup made an unannounced appearance Tuesday morning at the ABA Centers of Florida's autism care clinic in Boca Raton, drawing smiles and cheers from children and families. Escorted by Florida Panthers mascots Stanley C. Panther and Viktor E. Rat, the iconic trophy arrived to a crowd of young onlookers, many experiencing professional sports for the first time. The visit was part of a larger celebration blending sports, art and community for a cause. Children on the spectrum add their mark The event also served as the unveiling of the center's "Panthers on the Prowl" statues: Three large panther sculptures initially conceptualized by emerging artist Madison Barnett and finished by children receiving therapy at the clinic. The collaborative artworks were designed in support of the American Cancer Society and funded in part by Florida Panthers President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Bill Zito and his wife, Julie. Kids on the spectrum were invited to add their own colorful touches to the statues as the Panthers mascots looked on. A message of inclusion and empowerment The goal, according to organizers, was to bring art and sport into a therapeutic space while celebrating neurodiversity and raising cancer awareness. The initiative aimed to inspire creativity and compassion, while reinforcing the clinic's commitment to inclusion and community support. For the children in attendance, it was an unforgettable chance to interact with NHL mascots, express themselves through art and come face-to-face with the Stanley Cup.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Why neurodivergent workers pay the price for poor communication
In many workplaces, communication is built for the neurotypical. Instructions are often vague, feedback is wrapped in subtle social cues and important guidance gets buried in casual Slack messages. It's a system that expects everyone to just 'read between the lines' – which can leave many excluded. For some neurodivergent people, who use language literally, this can mean a constant struggle to understand the intended meaning of a communication. Not only does this create confusion and stress, it can lead many neurodivergent workers to be sidelined when it comes to career opportunities and promotions. Read more: How the maternity system is failing self-employed women According to a survey of 1,000 young people by the charity Young Minds, 74% of neurodiverse young people have felt out of place in the workplace. A further 40% said being neurodiverse could be a barrier to employment or promotion. Of course, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. However, using inclusive language can be a helpful step to make sure that neurodivergent people are supported and included. Most of us struggle with unclear communication. It makes misunderstandings and misinterpretation inevitable, which can make it much harder for us to do our jobs. But it can be even more complex for someone who processes information differently, such as autistic people and those with ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia and other neurodivergent conditions. 'For an autistic team member, unclear expectations might lead to anxiety, frustration, or unintentional mistakes. Not because of ability, but because what was being asked was never clearly explained,' says Hester Grainger, who has ADHD and is the co-founder of the neurodiversity consultancy Perfectly Autistic. She runs the business with her autistic and ADHD husband Kelly. 'For someone with ADHD, a vague instruction can feel like being handed a jigsaw puzzle without the picture,' she adds. 'We often need to be shown what is required of us. Otherwise we will spend ages wondering if we understood what was asked of us.' Also, adds Helen Davies, founder of the Neuroinclusion Quality Marker, it's not always easy to ask for clarification. 'Many neurodivergent folk have problems self-advocating and in extreme cases this can lead to anxiety, withdrawal and impact performance,' she says. 'Don't just ask for a 'quick favour' – actually explain what you are wanting,' says Grainger. 'Direct feedback is also really important. Avoid vague 'let's catch up soon' comments. Our brains then think – when is soon, do you mean now, in an hour, tomorrow or in a week? 'It's important to avoid reliance on indirect language or social cues that may be challenging for some neurodivergent individuals. Don't assume that someone understands what you are implying.' Davies adds that it's helpful to be clear about what is needed, by whom, and when. 'The 'when' needs to be specific, for example, outline a time and date and avoid 'ASAP'. It's really great to use clear language that is jargon free, so no idioms or abstract instructions.' If you rely on phrases like 'circle back' and 'low-hanging fruit' – don't. Few people enjoy hearing meaningless business language, but it can be particularly disconcerting for some neurodivergent workers. Read more: Why the pressure to be liked at work is holding women back 'Corporate speak and acronyms are a big no, no. Most of the time, people don't know what the acronyms stand for anyway, but it can be especially confusing for dyslexic people,' says Grainger. 'Vague or unclear communication can be a huge barrier for neurodivergent people at work. Many of us thrive on clarity and structure. When things are left open-ended or full of corporate jargon like 'touch base', it can create overthinking, second-guessing or even shutdowns if it feels too much.' Everyone has different needs and preferences. While some people may prefer lots of detail and context, others may just want the key issues or points. 'Just check their preference,' says Davies. 'Having a bit of warning and knowing when instructions are likely to be given is helpful. Some folk may need a bit more extra processing time or opportunity to ask questions without judgement.' If you have a verbal chat, it can help to make sure that the key points are written down. 'Some people prefer verbal communication but may need it followed up on an email. Others will want written instructions that they can follow and refer back to,' says Grainger. Davies also suggests using visual aids, which can help with complex tasks with lots of steps. 'These help visual thinkers and are great for a point of reference too,' she says. 'Don't be afraid to use flowcharts and task lists that break things down into chunks, steps, agendas and diagrams. Culturally, you can celebrate different processing styles as part of team diversity, build in neuro-inclusion training for managers and comms leads.' Read more: Could child-friendly co-working spaces fix the childcare crisis? How inadequate maternity leave harms mothers' wellbeing Five questions you shouldn't be asked in a job interviewError in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
