Neurodivergent symptoms: signs, how to spot them and what to do next

There’s no single checklist for “neurodivergent symptoms”. Neurodivergence is an umbrella term. Adults may notice patterns across areas like attention and executive function (often linked with ADHD), social communication and sensory processing (often linked with autism), learning differences (e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia), movement and co‑ordination (dyspraxia/DCD), or tics (Tourette’s). Only a qualified professional can diagnose a specific condition. This guide explains common signs (not a diagnostic tool) and your next steps in the UK.

At a glance

• Neurodivergent = an individual whose brain processes information differently; neurodiversity = the umbrella for natural brain differences. Estimates suggest around 1 in 7 people in the UK are neurodivergent.
• Co‑occurrence is common (for example, autism + ADHD, sometimes called AuDHD). Getting the right assessment matters.
• You can ask for reasonable adjustments at work even without a diagnosis; students can disclose needs via UCAS and may be eligible for DSA.

What “neurodivergent symptoms” really means

People search for “symptoms” but most adults recognise patterns across life, what drains energy, what helps, and what repeats. Neurodivergence isn’t a value judgement: it can bring strengths (pattern‑spotting, creativity, deep focus) and friction points (time‑management, sensory load). A clinician looks at the whole picture to distinguish between, say, ADHD, autism, dyslexia/dyscalculia, dyspraxia (DCD), tic disorders, or a combination.

Common adult signs by area (not a diagnosis)

1) Attention & executive function (often linked with ADHD)

You might notice:

• Time‑blindness and task‑initiation difficulty; jumping between tasks.
• Focus that surges with novelty/interest and dips with routine.
• Disorganisation, misplacing items, problems following multi‑step instructions.

A few expert opinions:

“It is normally periods of transition and new demands, such as moving into higher education, starting university or taking on greater responsibility in relationships, which prompts adults with undiagnosed ADHD to seek support. For women, hormonal shifts during puberty, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause can also spotlight symptoms." - Dr Daniel Musad, Consultant Psychiatrist

"I look for clusters of difficulties which may persist in daily tasks, the way emotions show up and how one communicates across a load of different contexts." Dr Alan Cross, Consultant Psychiatrist - Dr Alan Cross, Consultant Psychiatrist

2) Social communication & interaction (often linked with autism)

You might notice:

• Preferring direct, literal language; missing implied meanings or sarcasm.
• Finding social rules confusing; needing more recovery time after socialising.
• Preference for routine; anxiety when plans change.

3) Sensory processing differences

You might notice:

• Being much more or much less sensitive to light, sound, touch, smells or textures; sometimes seeking certain sensory inputs to self‑regulate.
• Sensory load driving fatigue, shutdowns or overwhelm.

4) Learning differences (SpLDs)

• Dyslexia: reading/writing/spelling challenges, slow reading, re‑reading to comprehend, difficulty organising thoughts on paper.
• Dyscalculia: persistent difficulty understanding numbers, place value, estimation; maths anxiety; everyday number tasks feel harder.

5) Movement & co‑ordination (dyspraxia / DCD)

• Difficulties with balance, driving, sports, handwriting or fine‑motor tasks. Intelligence is not affected.

6) Tics (Tourette’s and tic disorders)

• Involuntary movements or sounds (e.g., blinking, shoulder shrugging, throat clearing, repeating words); tics can worsen with stress or tiredness.

Many people recognise themselves in more than one set of signs. That’s normal, hence the importance of a clinical assessment.

When it’s something else (or something additional)

• Burnout, anxiety or depression can mimic or amplify traits. Autistic burnout—linked with masking, overload and lack of support—presents as prolonged exhaustion, loss of function and lower tolerance to stimulus. If this resonates, seek tailored support.
• Sleep, pain, thyroid and iron deficiencies (and other health issues) can affect focus and energy; a GP can help rule these in or out.

Getting assessed in the UK (adults)

• Autism: start with your GP for referral to an adult autism team if traits affect daily life.
• ADHD: GP referral to adult ADHD services; NICE guideline NG87 covers recognition, diagnosis and management in adults. Waiting times vary.
• Dyslexia/Dyscalculia: adults usually arrange assessment via qualified specialists (not typically via the NHS). The BDA explains options.
• Dyspraxia/DCD & tics: your GP can refer to appropriate clinics (neurology/OT/psychology).

Students: you can disclose needs without a diagnosis on your UCAS application; you’ll usually need evidence for DSA.

At work: employers should consider reasonable adjustments whether or not you have a diagnosis; Access to Work can fund extra, tailored support.

Practical steps that actually help

• Externalise tasks: calendars with visible alerts, checklists, visual planners.
• Design the week, not the day: block study/work windows; batch admin; micro‑starts (open doc, write three bullets).
• Sensory fit: headphones, lighting that works for you, predictable spaces.
• Ask early for adjustments: written instructions, quieter desks, flexible processes; Access to Work can help fund support.

FAQs (fast answers)

Is “neurodivergent” a diagnosis?
No. It’s a descriptor. Specific diagnoses (e.g., ADHD, autism, dyslexia) sit underneath it. This article helps you spot signs and next steps. Cambridge University Hospitals

Can I have both autism and ADHD?
Yes, many adults do. Co‑occurrence is recognised and researched—precise assessment guides the right support.

Do I need a diagnosis to get help at work or university?
Work: No, ACAS says employers should offer support and adjustments even without a diagnosis. Study: you can disclose via UCAS without a diagnosis; DSA usually needs evidence.

When should I seek urgent help?
If you feel unsafe or at risk of harming yourself: call 999 or 111 (NHS).

What to do next (the Augmentive way)

Understanding opens the door. Action takes you through it.

1. If you want clarity, book an assessment (ADHD, autism).
2. At work, ask for adjustments and consider Access to Work funding.
3. Build a plan that fits how your mind works, treatment, coaching, practical tools.