Beyond ADHD and Autism: The Importance of Recognising All Types of Cognitive Differences

As a film enthusiast and avid fan of Michael J. Fox, I recently watched "Still," a movie about his life. The film prompted me to reflect on the topic of cognitive differences and how we tend to focus on conditions such as ADHD, autism, and dyslexia while overlooking other cognitive differences. It is important to recognise that any one of us can experience changes in cognitive function at any point in our lives. Therefore, we should strive to promote greater understanding and acceptance of all types of cognitive differences.

At 29, Michael J. Fox received a diagnosis that he kept secret from everyone except his family for seven years. He feared being perceived or treated differently due to his condition. This highlights the fact that stigma is a real issue that can affect anyone, regardless of their status or accomplishments.

He said,?"Parkinson's makes you aware of the fragility of the human body and the human spirit. It teaches you that everything can change in an instant and to appreciate the moments of joy and happiness that come your way."

How powerful is that one sentence??It teaches you that everything can change in an instant.?

Neurocognitive differences can impact us at any stage in our lives, and they do not only affect those who are born with a cognitive difference. For example, a traumatic brain injury or stroke can cause cognitive changes in adults, and ageing can bring about changes in cognitive functioning as well. Additionally, some individuals may experience temporary cognitive difficulties due to factors such as stress or illness.

Here are some to name:?

Alzheimer's disease: A progressive, degenerative brain disease that affects memory, thinking, and behaviour.?Parkinson's disease: A disorder of the nervous system that affects movement, characterised by tremors, rigidity, and difficulty with coordination.

Huntington's disease: A genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain, leading to movement, cognitive, and psychiatric symptoms.

Multiple sclerosis (MS):?A disease of the central nervous system that affects the myelin sheath, which insulates nerve cells and facilitates the transmission of nerve impulses.?Traumatic brain injury (TBI): Damage to the brain caused by an external force, such as a blow to the head, which can result in cognitive, emotional, and behavioural changes.?Schizophrenia:?A chronic mental disorder characterised by a disconnection from reality, including delusions, hallucinations, and disordered thinking.?Bipolar disorder: A mental disorder characterised by periods of mania and depression, affecting mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to function.?Depression:?A mental disorder characterised by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in once-enjoyable activities

When we recognise and accept neurocognitive differences, we create a more inclusive and supportive society. For instance, in the workplace, companies can take steps to help destigmatise cognitive differences and educate staff and leaders about all differences. This can be achieved by implementing training programs that help staff and leaders understand the unique challenges and strengths of individuals with different cognitive styles. By doing so, companies can create a more inclusive and diverse workplace that accommodates and values the contributions of all employees.

In Michaels's film, he said, "When I came out about my diagnosis, I feared my first day back on the set of Spin City in front of a live audience because I was worried they would reject me."

In addition, recognising neurocognitive differences can help individuals with cognitive challenges access the support they need to reach their full potential. For example, some individuals with learning disabilities may benefit from accommodations such as extended time on tests or access to assistive technology. Similarly, individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may benefit from workplace accommodations such as flexible scheduling or task lists to help manage their workload.

Furthermore, recognising neurocognitive differences can help reduce the stigma associated with cognitive differences. This stigma can lead to discrimination, social isolation, and low self-esteem. By promoting understanding and acceptance of neurocognitive differences, we can create a more empathetic and compassionate society that values diversity in all its forms.

In conclusion, recognising and accepting neurocognitive differences is important for creating a more inclusive and supportive society. These differences can impact us at any stage in our lives, and it is essential to understand and accommodate the unique challenges and strengths of individuals with different cognitive styles. Companies can help un-stigmatise cognitive differences and educate staff and leaders about all differences by implementing training programs. By doing so, we can create a society that values diversity, reduces stigma, and provides support to individuals with cognitive differences to reach their full potential.

Thanks, Toni Horn

#CognitiveDiversity #CognitiveFunction #Medical #ThinkDifferently #Stigma #Neurodiversity