Neurodivergence is a Trend And You Fell for It
If you’ve spent more than five minutes on the internet lately, you’ve probably seen it: neurodivergence is everywhere. ADHD, autism, sensory processing differences suddenly, everyone has a label, a community, and a new identity. And if you don’t have one? Well, maybe you just haven’t realised it yet.
Neurodivergence has become the hottest trend of the decade. And before you come at me with pitchforks, take a deep breath because you might have fallen for it too.
When Did Neurodivergence Become an Aesthetic?
There was a time when ADHD was just something kids got diagnosed with after disrupting class one too many times. Autism was a word doctors hesitated to use. Sensory issues? You were just being picky. But now? Neurodivergence is a whole lifestyle.
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- TikTok has turned ADHD into a quirky personality type all impulse buys and forgetting why you walked into a room.
- Every mildly socially awkward tech bro is probably a little autistic because they hate small talk.
- Can’t focus? You must have executive dysfunction.
We’ve gone from struggling in silence to branding our struggles with pastel infographics. And while awareness is good, there’s a fine line between recognising neurodivergence and turning it into the personality equivalent of a limited-edition sneaker drop.
What Does Being Neurodivergent Really Mean?
If you’ve spent time in ADHD or autism spaces, you’ve probably seen the term neurodivergent brain but what does that actually mean, and are we oversimplifying complex conditions? The awareness boom has blurred the lines between neurodivergence, neurodiverse conditions, and just being human.
The “Self-Diagnosis Boom” (And Why It’s Not All Bad)
Let’s be real self-diagnosis is on the rise. Some people genuinely never got the support they needed growing up. But others? Well, they saw one viral video about how they zone out in conversations and decided they have undiagnosed ADHD, autism, and possibly a rare neurological condition known only to three scientists in Finland.
And look, I get it. When you finally find words that explain why life feels like a game on hard mode, it’s a relief. But are we diagnosing neurodivergence… or just describing the human experience?
- Everyone forgets things.
- Everyone procrastinates.
- Everyone hates loud chewing.
That doesn’t mean everyone is neurodivergent but right now, it sure feels like it.
The Capitalism of Neurodivergence
Let’s talk money. Because where there’s a trend, there’s profit.
The second ADHD became relatable, companies cashed in.
- Planners designed for ADHD brains (that still won’t get used).
- Apps promising to optimise your dopamine (for a monthly subscription fee).
- Neurodivergent-friendly clothing (translation: expensive, soft jumpers).
And don’t even get me started on supplements that cure neurodivergence. If you think Lion’s Mane mushrooms are going to rewire your brain and turn you into a focus machine overnight, I’ve got a bridge to sell you. (But, if you’re interested, here’s one that actually helps).
So… Is It All Fake?
No. Absolutely not. Neurodivergent people have existed forever, and many have fought tooth and nail for recognition, support, and acceptance. The problem isn’t neurodivergence itself it’s what happens when awareness turns into trend-chasing, misrepresentation, and corporate cash grabs.
- Real neurodivergent struggles don’t fit into a 15-second TikTok video.
- Not everyone who forgets things has ADHD.
- Not every socially awkward person is autistic.
- And no, your caffeine addiction is not a dopamine hack.
If we want real progress, we need to separate awareness from aesthetic. Because when the trend dies down (and it will), the people who actually need support will still be here fighting the same battles they always have.
Neurodivergence is not a trend… it’s a reality. The challenge is making sure the conversation around neurodivergence stays meaningful, helpful, and rooted in real experiences, not just viral moments.
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Want to talk about this more? Whether you’re rolling your eyes at the trend or recognising your own neurodivergence for the first time, you’re in the right place. Join our community, where we dig into the truth, share real experiences, and navigate the chaos together.
Disclaimer: This post is for discussion purposes and general information only. Neurodivergence is real, and professional diagnosis and support can be life-changing. Some links may be affiliate links, which help support this site at no extra cost to you.
