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? 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, a 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.

Parents and caregivers of neurodivergent individuals need 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]

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.

The difference between “normal” anxiety and neurodivergent anxiety

When it comes to anxiety, it’s important to understand that not everyone experiences anxiety in the same way. Most people experience what is often referred to as “normal” anxiety, which typically manifests as a mild feeling of worry or unease that’s tied to certain life events or everyday worries. But for some people, typical forms of anxiety can take on a much more intense form – this is known as neurodivergent anxiety. Neurodivergent anxiety (NDA) is an umbrella term that covers a range of disorders including Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).

These disorders differ from “normal” anxiety in their intensity and duration – symptoms feel much more profound and can have severe impacts on day-to-day functioning. It’s important for parents and clinicians to be aware of the differences between these two types of anxiety so that individuals can receive appropriate treatments designed for their specific needs.

How to know if you’re neurodivergent

As a parent or doctor, you may wonder: how can you tell if someone is neurodivergent? Neurodivergent individuals often find certain tasks and activities more difficult than their neurotypical peers. Struggles with planning, organization, or decision making, frequent overwhelm in high-anxiety situations, or expressing emotions in ways that differ from social expectations can all point toward neurodivergence.

Intellectual disabilities involve notable limitations in cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior, affecting a person’s ability to learn, communicate, and carry out everyday tasks. These disabilities can result from various causes, including genetic conditions, prenatal exposure to toxins or infections, or brain injuries.

Brain differences describe variations in brain structure and function from one person to another. In neurodivergent individuals, these differences may influence how they process information, perceive their environment, or experience emotions. It is critical to acknowledge and respect these differences instead of viewing them as deficiencies or disorders.

Creative thinking is a vital component of human intelligence, and neurodivergence is often linked to nontraditional problem solving and original ideas. Many neurodivergent people approach challenges with distinct perspectives, enabling them to produce innovative, creative solutions.

Autistic adults, those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and over the age of 18, often experience challenges in communication, social interaction, and may display repetitive behaviors or focused interests. Despite potential difficulties in employment, relationships, or independent living, many autistic adults thrive when given appropriate support and accommodations.

It is essential to understand that everyone occasionally struggles with these issues. However, if such patterns persist or disrupt daily life, they may suggest underlying neurodivergence. Observing these behaviors over time and having open, respectful conversations with the individual can help clarify any concerns and guide next steps.

Tests & Questionnaires to evaluate Neurodivergence

There are several tests and assessments that can be used to evaluate neurodivergence and anxiety. These tests can be administered by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a doctor, psychologist, or psychiatrist.

Tests and assessments for neurodivergence may include:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments: These assessments are used to diagnose ASD and may include observations of behavior, interviews with the person and their caregivers, and standardized tests of social communication and interaction skills.
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessments: These assessments are used to diagnose ADHD and may include interviews with the person and their caregivers, standardized tests of attention and impulsivity, and observations of behavior in different settings.

Tests and assessments for anxiety may include:

• Psychological evaluation: This may involve an interview with a mental health professional to discuss the person’s symptoms, medical history, and other relevant information.
• Self-report measures: These are tools that the person can complete themselves to provide information about their symptoms and how they are affecting their daily life. Examples include the GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7) and the Panic Disorder Severity Scale (PDSS). Both of these tests are available within the CareClinic App!
• Behavioral observations: A mental health professional may observe the person’s behavior in different situations to assess their level of anxiety.

It is important to remember that these tests and assessments are only one part of the process of diagnosing neurodivergence or anxiety. The results of these tests should be considered in the context of a person’s overall functioning and should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional.

Managing Anxiety as a Neurodivergent

For neurodivergent individuals, managing anxiety can be challenging, but it is not impossible. Developing a toolbox of different coping strategies can be useful in helping to manage the overwhelming feeling of anxiousness that is sometimes associated with neurodivergence.

Mindfulness and breathing exercises, physical activities like yoga or exercise, and journaling can all be helpful in reducing anxiety. It can also be beneficial to talk with someone you trust or a mental health professional about how you are feeling, in order to gain more insight into specific triggers and how to address them.

It is important to find self-care practices that work for you and to be consistent in implementing them. This may involve setting aside time each day to engage in activities that help to reduce anxiety, such as mindfulness practices or physical activity. It can also be helpful to develop a support network of trusted friends and family members who can provide emotional support and encouragement.

It is important to remember that managing anxiety takes time and effort, but with the right self-care practices, it is possible to reduce the impact of anxiety on your life. If you are struggling to manage your anxiety, it is important to seek support from a mental health professional. They can help you develop effective coping strategies and support you in managing your anxiety.

Managing Depression

For neurodivergent individuals, managing depression can be challenging, but it is not impossible. Like anxiety, depression is a common mental health condition that can be effectively treated with a combination of therapy, medication, and self-care practices.

Developing a toolbox of coping strategies can be useful in managing the symptoms of depression, including feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and lack of motivation. Some strategies that may be helpful include:

• Exercise: Physical activity can help to improve mood and reduce stress
• Mindfulness practices: Techniques such as meditation and deep breathing can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety
• Social support: Connecting with others who understand and can offer support can help manage depression
• Talking with a mental health professional: A therapist or counselor can help to identify the causes of depression and develop a treatment plan to manage symptoms

It is important to find self-care practices that work for you and to be consistent in implementing them. It can also be helpful to develop a support network of trusted friends and family members who can provide emotional support and encouragement.

If you are struggling to manage your depression, it is important to seek support from a mental health professional. They can help you to develop effective coping strategies and support you in managing your depression. It is important to remember that managing depression takes time and effort, but with the right treatment and self-care practices, it is possible to reduce the impact of depression on your life.

Managing your anxiety with CareClinic

Managing anxiety can be a difficult task, but it is an important part of self-care and overall well-being. Thankfully, CareClinic makes it easy to manage your anxiety, along with tracking other symptoms. This app offers support for all types of neurodivergent individuals with its digital health coaching and evidence-based resources.

It is equipped with tools to help you better understand your symptoms and build coping strategies that best suit your needs. With its regular check-ins and customizable action plans, managing anxiety will become easier than ever before.

Conclusion

Developmental disorders are conditions that affect the way a person develops and functions. These conditions can involve delays or abnormalities in physical, cognitive, and social development. Examples of developmental disorders include ASD, intellectual disability, and cerebral palsy. Developmental disorders are often neurodivergent conditions and may require specialized support and accommodations for individuals to reach their full potential.

Anxiety is a spectrum, and everyone experiences it in different ways. For neurodivergent people, however, managing anxiety can be especially tricky because of the way our brains work. There are many resources available to help neurodivergent people manage their anxiety, and with time and patience, it is possible to live a happy and productive life despite this challenge. If you or your child are neurodivergent and experiences anxiety, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

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.