You may hear terms like autism, ADHD, learning disabilities or sensory processing differences described as neurodiversity. Some people may experience more than one of these ways of being (for example: having an autism and ADHD diagnosis is called AuDHD). Neurodiversity is a way of recognizing that everyone's brain works a little differently. These differences are a normal part of being human. 

People think, learn and experience the world in different ways. There is no one “right” way for a brain to work. People whose brains work, learn, communicate or experience the world in different ways may describe themselves as neurodivergent. People whose brains work in ways that society expects or sees as typical are described as neurotypical. 

Every child has a wide range of strengths, experiences and support needs. As you read, think about what may be helpful for your child and family. If you need more support, talk with your health professional or a family peer support worker. 

Neurodiversity and mental health 

Every child is wonderfully unique, with their own skills, strengths and ways of experiencing the world. They deserve to be celebrated and supported for who they are. Navigating environments, expectations and systems that are not designed with neurodivergent people in mind can be stressful or overwhelming. 

Neurodivergent children are more likely to experience mental health challenges, such as anxiety, OCD and depression.  This may be related to a combination of neurological differences and life experiences, including: 

•  different ways of thinking, learning and understanding the world 

• different sensory needs and ways of communicating with others  

• the ongoing effects of adjusting to environments that lack accommodations, supports and may not meet their needs 

While we all have a role to play in creating communities where every child can thrive, there are some ways you can try to support your child's mental health and well-being along the way. 

Ways to support your child 

You know your child best. What can be helpful is to explore some tools to help your child manage stress, and find ways to support their individual and emotional needs.  

Here are a few ideas to consider: 

• Validate your child’s experience. Listen to your child's thoughts, feelings and experiences with curiosity and acceptance. Children communicate in different ways, and feeling understood can help children regulate their emotions and strengthen your connection. 

• Adjust the environment. Small changes can make a big difference. You might dim the lights, create a quiet space or minimize clutter to help your child feel more comfortable. 

• Routine. Predictable routines can help your child feel safe and reduce anxiety. Some children benefit from routines that include flexibility, as schedules that are very busy or rigid can increase stress. Calendars or reminders on your phone or post-it notes can also be helpful to navigate transitions.  

• Work with your child's school. Your child’s school plays an important role in their life. You may meet with teachers, administrators and school support staff to decide on how to best support your child. If your child has an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or other support plan, it can be helpful to review it regularly.  

• Encourage healthy sleep habits. Good sleep supports children's mental and physical health, learning and development. Consider things that may impact your child’s sleep, such as screen time, activity levels, anxiety, or sensitivity to light, noise, or other sensory input. A calming bedtime routine and a sleep-friendly environment can help support better sleep. Want to learn more? Check out this page on sleep for neurodiversity children.   

• Create an everyday support toolkit. Over time, you and your child can discover what helps them feel calm, comfortable and regulated outside the home. This might include noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools, and a favourite comfort item. Try to keep these items with you or your child when you’re on the go or ensure they are accessible in situations that might overwhelm your child. 

• Build on your child's strengths. Notice what your child enjoys and does well.  Think about how you can make time for your child’s interests like art, sports or nature, and celebrate their strengths such as kindness, humour, or deep knowledge about a favourite topic. This can build confidence, support wellbeing, and create opportunities for connection. 

• Seek professional support. Health professionals like a family doctor, pediatrician, or counsellor can help you understand your child’s needs and connect your family with appropriate supports and treatment options. 

If you’d like to learn more strategies, check out this article on good mental health for your neurodivergent child. 

Ways to support your own well-being 

Parents and caregivers often carry invisible workload (for example: coordinating appointments, researching and advocating for their child) and can feel isolated. They may not have enough support, regular breaks from caregiving, or time for themselves which can lead to burnout. 

Finding small moments to care for yourself can be an important part of supporting your own mental health and well-being, as well as your child and family.  

Here are a few ideas: 

• Check out taking care of yourself for more ideas on self-care. Want to learn more on the go? Check out our parent & caregiver well-being podcast episode.  

• Sometimes it feels like the world rests on our shoulders, but you are not alone. Learn more about building a support network and community to come alongside you. 

• The Parent Support Services Society of BC offers a free support group for parenting neurodivergent children. 

• Connect with a family peer support worker at the Kelty Centre to discover additional resources, learn more about support and treatment options, or just to find a listening ear.  

Supporting your child's mental health is an ongoing journey, not about getting everything right. Every family is unique and no one can fully understand your journey, but you are not alone. There are other parents and caregivers you can lean on for support who can relate to and validate your experiences. Finding a community you can connect with can be a source of comfort especially when waiting on services and clinical supports or taking a break from caregiving. 

Learning about your child's unique strengths and needs, managing stress and helping them feel safe, understood, and accepted can all support their well-being. Take one step at a time, pause when you need to and celebrate progress along the way. The care, love, and support you give your child everyday matters. Try to give yourself credit for everything you already do.