Is Anxiety Neurodivergent? Knowing the Signs of Neurodivergence

If you’re neurodivergent or autistic, you may have experienced anxiety at some point in your life. But what is anxiety, really? And is it possible that anxiety could be a normal part of being neurodivergent or autistic?

Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or fear. It’s common for people with anxiety to feel restless, tense, and on edge. Anxiety can also cause physical symptoms like sweating, racing heart, and difficulty breathing.

For some people, anxiety is simply a normal response to stress. But for others, it may be a sign of underlying mental health conditions, like a panic disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If you’re struggling with anxiety that feels out of control or interferes with your daily life, it’s important to talk to your doctor or mental health professional.

So what about those of us who are neurodivergent or autistic? Is it possible that we could experience higher levels of anxiety than the general population? The answer isn’t clear-cut. Some experts believe that because our brains are wired differently, we may be more prone to anxiety. Others argue that autism itself isn’t a cause of anxiety but that comorbid conditions (like ADHD) may increase our risk.^[1][2][3]

Neurodivergence and Anxiety

Neurodivergence refers to any neurological condition that deviates from the expected development and affects the way the brain processes information or experiences the world. Examples of neurodivergent conditions include autistic spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), epilepsy, and Tourette syndrome. These conditions are not disorders or abnormalities, but rather variations in brain development and function that should be respected and valued.

Anxiety is a normal response to stress or perceived threats, but when it becomes persistent and interferes with daily life, it may be diagnosed as an anxiety disorder. Anxiety is commonly associated with neurodiverse individuals, as they may be more prone to anxiety due to their heightened sensitivity to stimuli and difficulty in interpreting and responding to social cues.

It is important for parents and caregivers of neurodivergent individuals to be aware of signs of anxiety in order to identify how best to support their child. These signs may include increased irritability, avoidance of people or situations, difficulty concentrating, and changes in sleep or eating patterns. Being mindful of these signs can allow for early intervention and help in managing anxiety before it becomes more difficult to control.

It is also important to remember that each individual with a neurodivergent condition is unique and may experience anxiety differently. Seeking support from a mental health professional can be helpful in identifying and addressing anxiety in neurodivergent individuals.^[4][5][6]

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how a person communicates and interacts with others, as well as how they perceive and process sensory information. People with ASD may experience difficulties in social communication and interaction and may have repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities. ASD can range in severity, and symptoms can vary greatly from one person to another.

ASD is often accompanied by other mental health conditions, including anxiety. Anxiety is a normal response to stress or perceived threats, but when it becomes persistent and interferes with daily life, it may be diagnosed as an anxiety disorder. People with ASD may be more prone to anxiety due to their difficulty in interpreting and responding to social cues, as well as their heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli.

ASD is considered a neurodivergent condition, which means that it is characterized by differences in brain development and function. Neurodivergence refers to any condition that affects the way the brain processes information or experiences the world, and includes a wide range of conditions such as ASD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and dyslexia. These conditions are not disorders or abnormalities, but rather variations in brain development and function that should be respected and valued.^[7]

ADHD & Neurodivergence

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. It is commonly diagnosed in childhood, but can also affect adults.

People with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention or following through on tasks, may be impulsive or act without thinking, and may be hyperactive or have difficulty sitting still. These symptoms can cause challenges in academic, social, and occupational functioning.

ADHD is considered a neurodivergent condition, which means that it is characterized by differences in brain development and function. Neurodivergence refers to any condition that affects the way the brain processes information or experiences the world, and includes a wide range of conditions such as ADHD, autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), and dyslexia. These conditions are not disorders or abnormalities, but rather variations in brain development and function that should be respected and valued.^[8][9]

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Alexandra V.

Medically Reviewed

Alexandra V., BPT is a licensed physiotherapist (Carol Davila University of Medicine & Pharmacy) with additional pre-clinical training in Medicine. Holding a Journalism degree, she merges seven years' musculoskeletal-rehab experience with plain-language writing to deliver evidence-based prevention and pain-management guidance for CareClinic readers. Fluent in English, German and Romanian, Alexandra's goal is to turn clinical science into clear, actionable tips, information meant to educate, not replace individual medical advice.