Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a profile within neurodivergence that is often misunderstood. People who identify with this commonly prefer to be known as PDAers and so that is what is used in this post. PDAers experience intense anxiety when faced with everyday internal and external demands, which can lead to avoidance behaviours that seem puzzling or frustrating to others. Recognising PDA through a neurodiversity-affirming lens means appreciating these behaviours as part of a...

Anxiety and neurodivergence: Understanding the Connection Anxiety and neurodivergence, particularly autism and ADHD, are often discussed together. This connection is significant. A growing body of research indicates that anxiety is not just an additional concern; it frequently arises from the lived experiences, cognition, and sensory world of neurodivergent individuals. This post combines peer-reviewed findings and clinically useful insights. My aim is to help practitioners, families, and...

Disability advocacy exists at the heart of inclusion, justice, and human rights. It’s the ongoing work of challenging systemic barriers, amplifying lived experience, and creating a world where disabled people (across all neurotypes, identities, bodies, and cultures) can thrive. At Neuroinclusion , we see every day how advocacy shapes access, safety, and belonging. We also see how misunderstood, underestimated, and emotionally demanding this work can be. Disability advocacy isn’t a neat set of...