ADHD, Autism and Neurodiversity: How different brains work differently

Some people’s brains work differently to most people’s. It’s hard being different when the whole world of school, work and play is designed for how ‘normal’ people’s brains work; and when parents, teachers, friends and colleagues don’t get that what’s easy and normal for them isn’t just as easy for you. Living with this is stressful, and can lead to low self-esteem, social isolation, anxiety and depression

You may be diagnosed with ADHD or autism or other types of different brain functioning; or you may be a friend, partner, parent, carer or worker with someone with a diagnosis.  This workshop aims to help students understand:

• the various disorders that fall under the umbrella of ‘neurodivergent’;
• the difference between ‘neurodivergent’ brains and ‘normal’ brains;
• some techniques and strategies that people with a diagnosis can learn to use to manage better; and
• how to create inclusive, responsive, and supportive environments for people who are neurodivergent.

By the end of this workshop, students will be able to:

• Describe the difference between ‘normal’ and neurodivergent brain functioning
• Explain the most common neurodivergent conditions and how common they are
• Identify some  of the causes and contributing factors to neurodiversity
• Explain some of the effect of neurodiverse disorders on people with a diagnosis and the other people in their lives
• Recognise the impacts of neurodiverse disorders on mental, emotional and social wellbeing
• Use some strategies and techniques to help manage better in the world and to help the world manage better.

Join us for the “ADHD, Autism and Neurodiversity” workshop to gain a deeper understanding of these complex disorders to support yourself and other people to live meaningful and hopeful lives.

See our FAQs for how online workshops are being delivered.

Important! Before you enrol: We are required to provide our services to people who live/work/study or provide services in the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) area. If you are not sure whether you are eligible, please check Who can attend recovery college. If your address is outside of WSLHD area but you study or provide services within the Western Sydney LHD, please ensure you respond to the relevant question on the enrolment form to explain your connection to the area.