You’ve probably been spending a lot of time researching treatments.
There’s a lot of information out there, and it can feel overwhelming. I’ll do my best to break down your options.
Most people with brilliant neurodivergent brains use a mix of supports. You should step back and see if that mix is still working for you when your needs change. And usually, that’s because something changes at school or work, at home, or in relationships.
There are three main types of supports:
- Professional supports
- Lifestyle habits
- School and work supports
Here’s a quick overview of each one.
Professional Supports
Professional supports are supports you get from trained professionals.
These can include:
- Medical treatments, like medications and supplements
- Mental health therapies, like cognitive and behavioral therapy
- Life skills therapies, like executive functioning coaching or occupational therapy
→ Learn more in Professional Supports
Lifestyle Habits
Lifestyle habits are things you do regularly that help support all your Life Zones. Here are some common areas many ND people find helpful to turn into habits:
- Eating enough of what your body needs
- Hydrating enough with healthy drinks
- Moving enough in ways you enjoy
- Getting good sleep so you feel recharged
- Staying connected with friends and family
- Practicing mindfulness every day
- Using coping tools to cool down intense emotions
- Using strategies to tackle tricky conversations
- Using life hacks to make hard, important things easier
→ Learn more in Lifestyle Habits
School and Work
School and work supports can include:
- Accommodations, like flexible deadlines
- Less formal help that sets you up for success, like regular check-ins with your supervisor
- Supportive state programs, like vocational rehabilitation services
You also have control. You can choose schools, programs, jobs, and workplaces where your strengths shine. And where people understand that you’re worth supporting.
→ Learn more in School and Work Supports
A Final Reminder
This is your journey.
It’s actually a good thing if you don’t have everything figured out right now. That’s a good thing. It means you’re learning what actually works for your brain.
I’ve been diagnosed for over twenty years, and I’m still learning. This is something you come back to as your life changes.
What works for someone else who’s neurodivergent might not work for you — and that’s okay. And even if it’s not the usual choice for your condition, it could be worth a try.
The right supports are the ones that help you manage challenges and bring out your strengths.