Autism and ADHD are both forms of neurodivergence. Being neurodivergent means that your brain processes information in different ways. It's estimated that 1 in 7 people in the UK have some kind of neurodivergence and its characteristics can vary from one person to another.
You may have heard of some of these different types of neurodiversity:
By young people, for young people
"I often feel lonely, I try to solve this by going to groups and socialising with people, but it doesn’t always help. I don’t connect to people well and I often feel like I am unique amongst the people around me and that my brain thinks strangely, as I have Autism this is true, and my brain does think differently so I will have to find different people to connect with who think similarly.
"Finding other neurodivergent people is great advice. There are things like Youth in Mind which is a good way to meet other people who have similar experiences with mental health struggles and want to connect through shared experience.
"Even if you don’t think there is anyone you can talk to, there are people. They do exist, and they do care. Even if it’s not the perfect, ideal, movie like relationship, they are still there and they do care so do reach out even if it’s hard."
Adil, Age 15
(Some names changed to protect people's identities)
You can talk to your parents or carers, or a trusted adult within your school or setting, or any trusted friend.
If you live in Norfolk:
If you're 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635060 for anonymous and confidential advice from a health professional. ChatHealth is available Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.
You can also contact the Norfolk Healthy Child Programme by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.
If you live in Waveney:
You can call the Suffolk School Nursing service on 0345 607 8866 or email childrenshealth@suffolk.gov.uk.
Norfolk SEND Local Offer provide information and advice on services for young people with additional needs in Norfolk.
Suffolk SEND Local Offer provide information and advice on services for young people with additional needs in Waveney.
Mencap is a national charity who support people with learning disabilities. They offer a free Learning Disability Helpline with advice and guidance. Call 0808 808 1111 to speak to a trained professional.
Ambitious About Autism are a national charity aimed at supporting autistic children and young people in the UK.
Kooth offers online counselling, advice and emotional well-being support for anyone aged 10-18, seven days a week until 10pm.
Childline explains how to understand autism and what it's like living with it.
In the past it was incorrectly assumed that autistic people were mainly men and boys. The National Autistic society explain why.
Young Minds discuss the link between ADHD and you mental health.