Is your neurodivergent child anxious?

Anxiety and behavioural issues appear to be on the rise in primary schools, and we believe this is due to a variety of factors creating a "perfect storm." One significant factor, drawn from our personal family experience and broader observations, is the rise in neurodiversity diagnoses. The extraordinary demand for autism assessments and ADHD treatments in England has outpaced the NHS's capacity, according to the Nuffield Trust. Since 2019, there's been a five-fold rise in people waiting to see an autism specialist and a 51% increase in ADHD medication prescriptions. Whether there is an actual increase in neurodiversity or simply better diagnostic tools, it is clear that neurodiverse children often face greater challenges within the school system.

Neurodiverse children, typically have more sensitive nervous systems. Their amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for processing emotions, functions differently, making them more susceptible to anxiety and behavioural difficulties. Understanding this difference is crucial.

Despite ongoing stigma, increasing knowledge and understanding of neurodiversity can lead to more effective support strategies. In our workshops, we emphasize the importance of looking beyond observable behaviours to understand the underlying thoughts, feelings, and biological changes that drive these behaviours. This perspective shift can transform how parents and teachers approach and support neurodiverse children.

Recognising the unique challenges faced by neurodiverse children enables us to implement tailored strategies that help them thrive. When we focus on the whole child, understanding the neurological and emotional factors at play, we move towards a more inclusive and supportive educational environment. By championing neurodiverse students, we can foster their development and success, both academically and emotionally and hopefully reduce the anxiety that many of these children unfortunately face.

E&L