What Is A Neurotypical Disorder?

Is anxiety neurological? We, humans, are social beings who relied on communication for so many different aspects of life on Earth. This meant a diversity of milestones when it came to social and mental development. Our survival is based on providing the next generations with critical thinking and planning skills such as math, writing, and leadership.

You may have come across the term neurotypical used in one context or another. But what does neurotypical even mean? This word is actually an abbreviation for a neurotypical person or neurotypical psychology.

Neurotypical or neurotypical is used to refer to someone who demonstrates typical intellectual and cognitive development. A neurotypical person consistently navigates complex conversations and maintains social relationships. Chances are a neurotypical person will not be over-stimulated by a crowd or other stimuli.

Therefore, neurotypical can also be called neurotypical, neurotypically, or neurodiverse which are actually the same. Neurotypical disorder, however, is not the same as a neurotypical person because neurotypical disorder refers to someone whose neurocognitive development has been disrupted and therefore causes them to function poorly in social settings.

Do Neurotypical Disorders Relate To Neurodiversity?

Neurotypical is a new form of classifying the different strengths and weaknesses of cognitive skills and behavioral patterns. Neurodiversity is defined as “the range of differences in neurocognitive functioning within the general population”. Neurodiversity embraces all facets of these developments.

Neurodiversity is an emerging term that references the differences between people, established by sociologist Judy Singer. That is to say, neurotypical behavior is different from neurodiverse behavior.

Someone neurotypical will consistently act within the bounds of accepted social norms while neurodiverse people (neurodivergent), who are neuroatypical may behave in ways that appear odd or disturbing to neurotypicals.

Someone neurotypical can be characterized as:

• Not having cognitive or social difficulties that require coping mechanisms
• Not demonstrating issues with speech or certain motor impediments
• More consistent reading and interpreting social cues
• Very few sensory issues
• Hitting most developmental milestones without delay

How Is A Neurotypical Disorder Related To Anxiety?

Anxiety is not a neurodivergent disorder. That does not mean those characterized with neurodivergent qualities cannot experience anxiety. Anxiety is a neurotypical disorder with the most prevalence as it affects 18% of neurotypicals.

Anxiety can be defined as a feeling of unease or worry from the uncertainty of outcomes. Someone neurotypical may experience anxiety but someone neurodivergent does not.

You can be neurotypical and neurodiverse which means you have alternative neurology that is different than the neurotypical cognitive development. Neurotypical disorder, however, is not the same as neurotypical neurodiversity because neurotypical disorder refers to someone whose neurocognitive development has been disrupted and therefore causes.

To be considered neurodivergent, generally, one must have been diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental or neurocognitive disorder such as autism, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder. These mental disorders are the result of neurocognitive differences from neurotypical neurodevelopment.

How Can Neurodivergent People Experience Other Co-occurring Conditions Such as Addiction?

With neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD, there is no true “status quo” mental state to compare to.  It’s common for those with neurodevelopmental disorders to have a co-occurring disorder but there are chances for misdiagnoses.

This poses challenges for professionals to determine when to administer treatment. Symptoms of the neurotypical disorder can be difficult to notice, but some neurotypical disorders include anxiety, fear of change, and depression.

The influences behind neurodevelopmental disorders can be from:

• Trauma at birth
• Physical trauma
• Genetics
• Infectious disease
• Nutritional factors
• Immune disorders

How To Recognize The Signs Of A Neurodivergent Disorder?

The following could be classified as a neurodivergent disorder:

• Dyslexia
• Dyspraxia
• ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder)
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Tourette Syndrome

ADHD is one of the most common mental health disorders diagnosed in children. Among adults with alcohol use disorder, ADHD is more common. The medications used to treat ADHD such as Ritalin have the potential for abuse. There is no cure for neurodivergent such as ADHD.

Neurodivergence And Addiction Treatment

Seeking addiction treatment can be challenging for those who wish for a better alternative. Addiction treatment for those with neurodivergent qualities is often overlooked. For example, individuals with Autism spectrum disorder and Asperbergers can experience addiction.

This sensitive portion of the population deserves attention and comprehensive care in addiction treatment. Generally, it is reported that individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder are less likely to participate in drinking and drug use; even those without an official diagnosis.

There hasn’t been a dire need for programs such as these considering the low admissions. Although, this is a good reason to establish more programs suited for those with a neurotypical disorder.

The same treatment options within the continuum of care are available. Therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy have shown effectiveness in treating individuals with neurotypical disorders. Dual diagnosis treatment programs are emerging as a resource. For example, a patient with ADHD and a substance use disorder would be considered for dual diagnosis treatment.

According to Autistica, those with autism are 9 times more likely to commit suicide. Those with autism may not communicate these feelings in conventional forms, which can pose many obstacles. Dyslexics are at higher risk of self-harming and suicide.

It’s vital to take into account the individual’s needs when researching a treatment facility. There’s an increased risk of unsuccessful treatment due to inattentive care, considering that these individuals have trouble connecting to others. Those with autism may have difficulty interpreting certain social cues and taking specific lessons.

How Does Addiction Affect The Mind?

Addiction is a chronic but treatable disease that manipulates the reward, stress, and control centers of the brain. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that work as a feedback loop for activity, from hormones to actions.

Addiction is now recognized by its genetic, environmental, and sociological factors rather than a moral failing. There are medications available to treat withdrawal symptoms and other medical conditions during addiction treatment.

Little Creek Recovery Is Here to Help

The road to recovery requires the necessary tools and support for successfully rehabilitated lifestyles. Little Creek Recovery dedicates time and attention to detail for all patients. Addiction treatment is meant to be accessible for those willing to take those steps. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, please contact us today.