What we’re about
I started my journey into discovering the complexity of neurodiversity when I found out that I was autistic at age 35. Since then, I’ve realised that I have also been severely affected for my entire life by Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), dyslexia, dyspraxia, and have related dietary issues including coeliac disease. I feel strongly that the connection between these conditions is under-researched in healthcare and academia and largely ignored by health and social services, which has a profound impact on the life experience and health outcomes for people like me.
The definition of neurodiversity currently mainly encompasses autism, ADHD, OCD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, and Tourette's Syndrome. Between 10-20% of the adult population has some form of neurodiversity, so it is impacting a huge number of us and/or our families, friends, and co-workers, but is often unrecognised, untreated, and there are very few resources or support.
The group is intended for adults who have at least one, if not multiple forms of neurodiversity. I also personally believe there are interrelationships between what is currently classified under "neurodiversity" and other mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Anyone with any of the above-mentioned conditions is welcome.
I want to share experiences, to understand how other people experience their conditions, and to potentially consider how we can work together to encourage greater awareness and acceptance, if not advocacy for people like us. Please join, share, and take the opportunity to more fully explore life with me and with others like you.
Please note that we follow a code of conduct as follows:
1) Abusive, aggressive, offensive, or harassing behaviour will not be accepted
2) Racist, sexist, homophobic, gender identity phobic, or threatening remarks; comments about physical appearance, disability, religion/beliefs, or lifestyle; or otherwise inflammatory or discriminatory remarks will not be permitted at group activities or in discussions on our group pages
3) You may be asked not to attend future group activities, contribute to group discussions, and/or you may be removed from the group altogether if you infringe this policy
4) The best interests of all group members will be used as the primary guideline for any decisions
5) We appreciate that behaviours can be linked with disability. However, we cannot compromise the safety and well-being of other participants to accommodate inappropriate or challenging behaviour
If you are being harassed by a member of the group, notice that another member of the group is being harassed by a member of the group, or have any other concerns related to the group, please contact the group Organizer.