Am I neurodivergent? How can I tell?

07/08/25 5:03pm

This post was sourced from submitted reader questions and posted by wikiHow Editorial Staff.

Reader Comments

07/08/25 5:04pm

“Neurodivergent” is an umbrella term that describes people whose brains work differently than others' or who process information in an atypical way. It doesn't always mean that person has a diagnosed condition, but it can include those with conditions such as autism, learning differences like dyslexia, ADHD, and Tourette syndrome. It’s possible to have one or more of these conditions without knowing it, so it’s also possible to be neurodivergent and not be aware of it.

If you think you might be neurodivergent, the best thing to do is see a neuropsychologist or another medical professional for evaluation. You can also consider whether you experience symptoms related to any of these conditions, such as making repetitive motions or difficulty with social cues, emotional regulation, focus, or sensory processing. You may also find it helpful to take wikiHow's Am I Neurodivergent? Test . Keep in mind, though, that people who are neurodivergent may face challenges, but they also have unique strengths, including their artistic and problem-solving abilities!

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George Sachs, PsyD
Licensed Psychologist

07/08/25 5:14pm

Keep in mind that everybody has different neurological abilities and neurological traits, and the idea behind the term "neurodivergent" is that these differences, which are typically ADHD and autism, should not be seen as disorders, but as differences that are accepted and accommodated in society.

So what's considered neurodivergent? ADHD, autism, OCD, and Tourette's are the basics—basically anything that is neurological in nature that you’re born with. Some people include anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder in their definition, but there’s some difference of opinion about this because these conditions are developed later and more transient.

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