Neurodiversity Celebration Week invites people around the world to rethink the way we view and talk about neurodiversity. Conversations on social media are often clouded by myths and misinformation – particularly around increasing diagnosis rates, so sharing clear, evidence-based insights has never been more important. Challenge Community Services is proud to offer neuro‑affirming support to neurodivergent individuals and to celebrate Neurodiversity Celebration Week once again this year.
This year, Neurodiversity Celebration Week also coincides with World Social Work Day on March 17, a perfect opportunity to recognise the incredible Social Workers within our allied health team. Their dedication to improving the lives of neurodivergent people is unwavering, and their work plays a vital role in creating safe, supportive, and empowering environments.
Samantha Johns has been a valued member of our Maitland allied health team for almost three years, specialising in Positive Behaviour Support for young people in Out of Home Care and NDIS participants. This month, she kindly shared with us the “hills she’d die on” as a neuro‑affirming Social Worker.
Diagnoses do have value in social work.
In Social Work, there can be a real reluctance to put a label on peoples’ experiences. When we do that, we run the risk of becoming prescriptive and making assumptions regarding peoples’ care. Despite this, the role of diagnosis has a fundamental role in developing identity, social supports, and connection to neurodivergent culture.
DISCLAIMER: Neurodivergent folks tend to note that they have been “identified as neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, etc)” as opposed to “diagnosed”. The word diagnosis, or diagnoses, has been used in this context to speak about diagnoses as a tool in building identity.
Neurodivergent folks experience social differences, not social deficits.
One of the biggest misconceptions that we continue to see regarding neurodivergence (especially Autism) is that neurodivergent folks have poor social skills. This is not the case.
What we can acknowledge is that neurodivergent folks communicate in ways that neurotypical people typically do not and therefore does not typically meet neurotypical expectations (which can seem like a lack of skills). Expecting neurodivergent folks to communicate in ways that meet neurotypical expectations is like expecting someone who’s first language is French to only speak English.
Communication exists (and is valid) outside of spoken words.
Many neurodivergent folks do not use spoken language or mouth words. This does not mean that they are not, or cannot, communicate.
In my role, we often use the cliché that all behaviour is communication. While this is true, we also know that there are specific types of communication used in neurodivergent communities such as sign language and AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices. These forms of communication, alongside things like gestures and body language, are just as valid in communication as the use of mouth words.
Neurodivergent folks experience fluctuating capacities.
Medically, peoples’ experiences of neurodivergent diagnoses tend to be categorised into different types, or levels, which are often used to indicate the perceived ‘severity’ of their diagnosis or diagnoses. You know – people may have a certain ‘type’ of ADHD, or an indicated ‘level’ of Autism.
However, neurodivergent folks are understood within their communities and support networks as having fluctuating capacities. This means that someone’s ability to care for themselves, or complete tasks, or pursue goals can be different on any given day – and that is okay!
Language matters.
The way we speak with and about the experiences of those who identify as neurodivergent can help the individuals and communities that we support find affirmation and preserve their sense of self. Continuing to stay in touch with neurodivergent communities and taking on new information about the ways in which they prefer to be identified, have their experiences described, and to have their lived experiences honoured remains paramount to providing the most affirming supports.
This week serves as a powerful reminder that language, support, and understanding truly matter. By embracing neuro‑affirming principles and amplifying the expertise of Social Workers like Sam, we continue moving toward a future where neurodivergent people are recognised, valued, and empowered in all areas of life.
