Neurodivergent individuals — those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurological differences — experience traumatic brain injury at higher rates and in distinctive ways.
Why Neurodivergent People Have Higher Traumatic Brain Injury Rates
- Navigating a world designed for neurotypical people creates chronic stress
- Masking neurological differences is psychologically costly and drives traumatic brain injury
- Sensory processing differences can make traumatic brain injury triggers more intense
- Social difficulties associated with neurodivergence can increase isolation and traumatic brain injury
How Traumatic Brain Injury Presents Differently in Neurodivergent People
In autistic people, traumatic brain injury may be expressed through behavioral changes rather than verbal report. In ADHD, traumatic brain injury may be difficult to distinguish from executive function difficulties.
Neurodivergent-Affirming Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment
Effective traumatic brain injury treatment for neurodivergent people adapts standard approaches to accommodate sensory, communication, and processing differences. Find therapists with specific neurodivergent experience.