Understanding Neurodivergence: The Link Between Neurodiversity, ADHD, and DBT

Neurodivergence is a concept that is gaining momentum, but what does it truly mean? More importantly, how does it relate to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)? With an estimated 5-7% of children and 2-5% of adults worldwide diagnosed with ADHD (Faraone et al., 2021), understanding the interplay between neurodiversity and ADHD is essential. Additionally, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), originally developed for borderline personality disorder, has shown promise in helping neurodivergent individuals, especially those with ADHD, regulate emotions and improve executive functioning. Let’s break it dow

Understanding Neurodiversity: A Shift in Perspective

The neurodiversity movement challenges the traditional medical model that frames neurological differences as disorders needing to be fixed. Instead, it promotes the idea that conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others are natural variations of human cognition.

As Dr. Thomas Armstrong, an advocate for neurodiversity, puts it: “The problem is not in the person with ADHD, but in the way the world is set up to accommodate only one kind of brain.” This perspective shifts the focus from deficit to difference, encouraging a strengths-based approach rather than a deficit-based one.

ADHD: More Than Just Hyperactivity

ADHD is one of the most well-known neurodivergent conditions, yet it remains widely misunderstood. The stereotype of a hyperactive child bouncing off the walls does not reflect the full picture. ADHD is categorized into three types:

1. Inattentive Type: Characterized by difficulties in focus, organization, and memory.

2. Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: Marked by excessive movement, impulsivity, and difficulty waiting turns.

3. Combined Type: A mix of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.

ADHD is not simply about a lack of focus—it’s a disorder of executive functioning. According to research by Barkley (2015), individuals with ADHD experience a 30% developmental delay in executive functioning skills. This means that an adult with ADHD may struggle with impulse control and organization at a level comparable to a much younger neurotypical person.

The Role of DBT in Supporting ADHD

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) was initially developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan for individuals with borderline personality disorder, but its application has expanded to ADHD treatment. Why? Because DBT addresses emotional dysregulation—a core issue for many with ADHD.

Key DBT Skills for ADHD:

• Mindfulness: Helps ADHD individuals become aware of their thoughts and behaviors. Studies have shown that mindfulness training can improve attention and reduce impulsivity in those with ADHD (Mitchell et al., 2017).

• Distress Tolerance: Provides strategies to manage frustration and impulsivity, common struggles for those with ADHD.

• Emotional Regulation: Offers techniques to handle intense emotions. As Dr. Russell Barkley states, “ADHD is not a disorder of attention, but a disorder of self-regulation.”

• Interpersonal Effectiveness: Helps navigate social relationships, an area where many with ADHD face challenges due to impulsivity and emotional reactivity.

A study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders (2020) found that DBT-based interventions led to significant improvements in emotional control and executive function in adults with ADHD. The structured, skills-based approach of DBT makes it an effective tool for managing the challenges associated with ADHD.

Rethinking ADHD and Neurodiversity

Rather than viewing ADHD as a deficit, what if we saw it as a different way of processing the world? Many successful entrepreneurs, artists, and thinkers have ADHD, leveraging their ability to hyperfocus and think outside the box. As Sir Richard Branson, who has ADHD, famously said, “My impulsive nature has helped me make quick decisions and take risks—both necessary for entrepreneurship.”

However, thriving with ADHD requires support. DBT, alongside other therapeutic approaches, accommodations, and a neurodiversity-affirming perspective, can empower individuals with ADHD to harness their strengths while managing their challenges.

Moving Forward with Acceptance

The conversation around neurodiversity and ADHD is evolving, and it’s time to embrace a more inclusive and supportive approach. Understanding that ADHD is part of the neurodivergent spectrum allows us to create better systems, workplaces, and educational environments that cater to all kinds of minds.

So, what’s next? If we continue to educate, advocate, and push for accommodations that respect neurodiversity, we can help individuals with ADHD—and all neurodivergent people—thrive. Because at the end of the day, different brains make the world a richer, more dynamic place.