The rise of neurodivergence – what might be going on?
It’s a topic of some debate: why are we seeing more diagnoses of neurodivergent conditions, particularly autism and ADHD? And when we say more, we mean a lot more. One study from 2018 found there was a 787 per cent increase in autism diagnoses in the UK between 1998 and 2018. The increase was notable in females and adults.
There is not yet robust evidence on this, but the emerging scientific opinion is that there has always been the current range of brain diversity in the population. We are discovering more of it now because: the diagnostic criteria are much more nuanced, there is greater awareness of neurodiversity and we live in an environment which presents more challenges to the neurodivergent brain. Also, we listen more carefully to what our children and young people are telling us rather than telling them to ‘get on with it’ which often just stores up complex long term trauma.
Improved diagnostic practices
Fifty years ago in the UK, autism was narrowly defined and typically diagnosed only in children with severe language delays and intellectual disabilities, based on rigid behavioural criteria. It was seen as a rare childhood disorder, and many individuals—especially those with milder traits—were overlooked. Autism was largely viewed through a medical lens, with limited understanding of the spectrum of traits or co-occurring conditions.
Now, the understanding of autism has improved significantly, with diagnosis now recognising a broad spectrum of traits, including sensory sensitivities and social communication differences. The criteria have become more inclusive, merging previous subtypes like Asperger’s syndrome, and there is growing awareness of how autism can present differently in women and marginalised groups.
Increased awareness
Public understanding of neurodiversity is much better now, partly due to advocacy efforts, media representation, and social media platforms where individuals share their experiences. This heightened visibility has led more people – including adults who may have been missed as children – to seek assessments and support. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend, as lockdowns and remote working environments unmasked symptoms that might have previously gone unnoticed.
A difficult world for the neurodivergent brain
Today's environment can present significant challenges for the neurodivergent brain due to the fast pace of life, increasing reliance on technology, and the rigid demands of modern work and education systems. Many neurodivergent people struggle with sensory sensitivities, making the constant noise, bright lights, and overstimulation of the modern world overwhelming. Digital technologies, while offering new tools for connection, also bombard users with endless notifications and multitasking demands that can be particularly difficult for those with attention regulation differences. Also, modern schools and workplaces often prioritise speed, conformity and high productivity, leaving little room for alternative learning styles, or the slower, deeper processing that some neurodivergent people need to thrive.
To sum up
The sharp rise in autism and ADHD diagnoses in the UK does not necessarily reflect a sudden surge in neurodivergent traits, but rather a long-overdue recognition of the diversity that has always existed. As awareness continues to grow, the focus must now be on creating environments – at home, in schools and in the workplace – that are genuinely inclusive and supportive of neurodiverse minds.