UK Disability Benefits Cuts and Neurodivergent Support Guide

1. What’s Happening with UK Disability Benefits? 2. Why This Matters for Neurodivergent People 3. What Neurodivergent People Can Do to Help Themselves a) Stay Informed & Connect b) Engage Politically c) Gather Good Evidence d) Prioritise Self-Care & Anxiety Support e) Maximise Other Help f) Plan for Contingencies 4. If You’re Experiencing Anxiety RightContinue reading “UK Disability Benefits Cuts and Neurodivergent Support Guide”

ARFID, Eating Disorders, and Autistic People: Understanding the Connection

When we think about eating disorders, conditions like anorexia nervosa and bulimia often come to mind. However, there’s another lesser-known but equally serious eating disorder: Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). ARFID is characterized by an extreme avoidance of certain foods, often due to sensory sensitivities, fear of negative consequences like choking, or a general lackContinue reading “ARFID, Eating Disorders, and Autistic People: Understanding the Connection”

Autism and Somatic Pain Disorders: Exploring the Links and Theories

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is widely recognised for its impact on social communication, sensory processing, and cognitive functioning. However, emerging research suggests a significant link between autism and somatic pain disorders—conditions where individuals experience chronic pain without an identifiable physical cause. This blog post delves into the connections between autism and somatic pain disorders, exploringContinue reading “Autism and Somatic Pain Disorders: Exploring the Links and Theories”

Pathological Demand Avoidance: Stress or Anxiety?

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a behavioural profile first described in the 1980s by Elizabeth Newson, primarily observed in individuals on the autism spectrum. Characterised by an overwhelming need to avoid everyday demands and expectations, PDA often manifests as extreme avoidance tactics, from procrastination to outbursts, even when the demand seems trivial. While often associatedContinue reading “Pathological Demand Avoidance: Stress or Anxiety?”

Exploring the Overlap between Neurodivergence and Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD)

Neurodivergence is a broad term that encompasses a range of neurological differences, including ADHD, autism, and dyslexia, among others. Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD), also known as Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), is a mental health condition characterised by intense emotional instability, difficulty in relationships, impulsive behaviour, and a distorted sense of self. While EUPD isContinue reading “Exploring the Overlap between Neurodivergence and Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD)”

Starting the University Year: A Guide for Neurodivergent Students

The start of a new university year is an exciting time, but it can also feel overwhelming—especially if you are neurodivergent. With new routines, academic expectations, and social pressures, it’s easy to feel a bit lost. But with some preparation and strategies in place, you can set yourself up for a smooth and successful year.Continue reading “Starting the University Year: A Guide for Neurodivergent Students”

Starting Back at University: A Guide for Neurodivergent Students

Returning to university can be both an exciting and daunting experience for anyone, but for neurodivergent students, it comes with its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re on the autism spectrum, have ADHD, dyslexia, or any other form of neurodivergence, this guide is here to offer some advice and reassurance as youContinue reading “Starting Back at University: A Guide for Neurodivergent Students”

Understanding the Brain Mechanisms behind Echolalia

Echolalia, a condition where individuals repeat words, phrases, or sounds spoken by others, is often observed in various neurological and developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum condition (ASC), Tourette syndrome, and certain types of aphasia. While it may seem like a simple mimicry on the surface, the underlying brain processes are complex and multifaceted. TheContinue reading “Understanding the Brain Mechanisms behind Echolalia”

Neurodivergent brains think differently. Which one are you?

Exploring the Monotropic Mind vs. the Polytropic Mind In the realm of psychology, understanding how individuals focus their attention and process information can offer profound insights into human behaviour. Two distinct cognitive styles often discussed are the monotropic mind and the polytropic mind. These terms describe how people manage their attention and interests, revealing uniqueContinue reading “Neurodivergent brains think differently. Which one are you?”