Neurodivergence is an umbrella term used to describe a range of different characteristics, such as:
A Neurodevelopmental Concern
Understanding Yourself as a Neurodivergent Person—Without Needing a Diagnosis
You don’t need a diagnosis to begin to understand yourself. Being neurodivergent isn’t just about having a label; it’s about understanding how you think, learn, feel, and experience the world in your own way.
You might notice that you process things differently, have unique strengths, or face certain challenges. That’s real, and it matters, even if no one has officially diagnosed it. What’s important is finding what helps you thrive—whether that’s new strategies, supportive people who can help you advocate for yourself , or just being kind to yourself.
Your experiences are real, and with time and self-awareness, you can find ways to manage challenges and build on your strengths.
A good starting point would be our Common Concerns, Information pages and resources section full of information and advice.
You don’t need a diagnosis to begin to understand yourself. Being neurodivergent isn’t just about having a label; it’s about understanding how you think, learn, feel, and experience the world in your own way.
You might notice that you process things differently, have unique strengths, or face certain challenges. That’s real, and it matters, even if no one has officially diagnosed it. What’s important is finding what helps you thrive—whether that’s new strategies, supportive people who can help you advocate for yourself , or just being kind to yourself.
Your experiences are real, and with time and self-awareness, you can find ways to manage challenges and build on your strengths.
A good starting point would be our Common Concerns, Information pages and resources section full of information and advice.
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Intellectual Disability (ID), which used to be known as Learning Difficulties
- Tics and Tourettes
There are many reasons why a young person might behave or function in ways that seem different from their peers. It’s important to remember that children and young people grow and develop at their own pace and to think about other things that might be impacting on how you’re feeling and how you are behaving before exploring the possibility of it being a neurodevelopmental disorder. Difficulties can arise because of recent changes or challenges or if you have had more difficulties to deal with in your life than peers your own age.
Talking to someone who knows you well, like your parents, carers or teacher is a good place to start. You can also ask to talk with a school nurse, GP or perhaps a social worker if you have one.
Whoever you talk to will ask you to tell them about the kinds of problems or worries you are having so that they can think about the right kind of help for you.
Talking to someone who knows you well, like your parents, carers or teacher is a good place to start. You can also ask to talk with a school nurse, GP or perhaps a social worker if you have one.
Whoever you talk to will ask you to tell them about the kinds of problems or worries you are having so that they can think about the right kind of help for you.
Do I need support from CAMHS?
As in other areas across Scotland and the UK, there has been a sharp increase in referrals for neurodevelopmental (ND) assessment and this has led to an extensive waiting list. As a result we have had to carefully consider how we safely prioritise patients to ensure we carry out the primary role of CAMHS, which is to assess and treat children and young people with significant and impairing mental health concerns. If you do not have a co-existing mental health difficulty, we wont be able to see you at CAMHS for a neurodevelopmental assessment.