It’s no secret to the neurodivergent community at large that performing a neurocognitive style that differs from the neuronormative standard of our given culture is a challenge that is often overlooked. For many of us, the only exception to the constant barrage of complaints on how we exist can be found in neurodivergent community, created by and for us. It isn’t that the only way to thrive is to isolate ourselves from the world, rather that such spaces offer a meaningful place to experience the lack of barriers that typical society simply doesn’t offer.
Neurodivergent Community & Mental Health
Neurodivergent people perform differently from neurotypical society, and as a result experience an increased amount of stigma, discrimination, and even vulnerability to criminal exploitation and violence. It is no surprise, then, that spaces where we can connect with each other in solidarity have an overall positive impact on our mental health.
Such spaces create the opportunity to engage with others in a meaningful way without the threat of critical opinions or overt disregard for our humanity. They create a reprieve from the constant barrage of “you are not enough”, “you are too much”, or “how can I take advantage of you?” that we experience on a more or less daily basis. This allows us to experience human connection without the constant threat of mistreatment.
Where Is The Neurodivergent Community?
Below are a few examples of creators and professionals building community on both social media and other platforms where you can connect with other Autistic and neurodivergent people.
Autistic Realms
Autistic Realms is run by Helen Edgar, who herself is our communications and partnership lead here at NeuroHub Connect. Helen works tirelessly to create content, connect neurodivergent people with each other, and advance the knowledge that we hold about what it is to be neurodivergent.
Autistic Inclusive Meets
Autistic Inclusive Meets is a community group in London that not only provides a number of in-person meet-up and event opportunities but also engages in critical activism to protect Autistic people from abuse and quack treatments. Their CEO Emma Dalmayne has a global platform of work and has locked horns with some of the biggest threats to Autistic people that have existed in recent decades.
Autistic Parents UK
Autistic Parents UK provide community and support for Autistic parents across the United Kingdom. There work provides meaningful support and community for a group fo parents that are not only often overlooked, but frequently mistreated by professional services.
Jade Farrington
Jade Farrignton is a neurodivergent therapist who is well known for their comprehensive newsletter, helping connect neurodivergent people with services, events, and each other. You can check out her newsletter by clicking the button below.
Ausome Minds
Ausome Minds is the organisation run by Charlie Hart (AKA Ausome Charlie) providing professional speaking and training services with a particular focus on LGBTQIA+ intersections with neurodiversity. Ausome Minds is also a sponsor of NeuroHub Connect and have done a lot to support our work.
Neurodivergent Joy
Neurodivergent Joy is run by Ed Shearer and is an emerging body of work providing professional speaking, training and consultancy across the world of autism and neurodiversity. I would highly recommend checking our Ed’s work and supporting the growth of his endeavours.
This list will continue to grow as the team here at NeuroHub Connect have time to invest in adding more to it. If you’re not on here yet, don’t worry, you soon will be, and you can always get in contact with us at admin@neurohubcommunity.org to let us know about your work!
