Is Anxiety Neurodivergent? Research-Based Answers

What Is Neurodivergence?

Neurodivergence is a term used to describe natural variations in how individuals think, learn, and process information. It recognizes that neurological differences, such as autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, etc., are simply part of the normal spectrum of human diversity. Neurodivergent individuals often have unique strengths, perspectives, and ways of experiencing the world that can contribute to society in meaningful ways.

It’s important to note that being neurodivergent does not mean a person has something wrong with them. Rather, it highlights that their neurological makeup is different from the societal norm, and they may require different types of support, accommodations, or understanding to thrive and reach their full potential. Embracing neurodiversity promotes inclusivity and recognizes the inherent value and worth of every individual, regardless of their neurological differences.

Common types of neurodivergent disorders include:

• Autism
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Dyslexia (specific learning disorder in reading)
• Dyscalculia (specific learning disorder in mathematics)
• Dyspraxia (developmental coordination disorder)
• Tourette syndrome (TS)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Sensory processing disorder (SPD)
• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder

Neurodivergence Vs. Mental Illness

The biggest difference between neurodivergence and mental illness is that neurodivergence refers to a different style of thinking, whereas mental illness refers to cognitive or emotional dysfunction. While someone who is mentally ill may need treatment to resolve cognitive or emotional dysfunctions, someone who is neurodivergent may receive treatment to learn how to cope in a neurotypical and able-bodied system.

People with neurodivergence and mental illness may each need accommodations to function. Society is generally set up for neurotypical and able-bodied individuals to succeed, which sometimes means that people who are neurodivergent or mentally ill may fall through the cracks. People with these conditions can seek therapy, speak with their work for accommodations, and learn to make lifestyle changes to cope.

Is Anxiety Neurodivergent?

Anxiety is not considered neurodivergent but new research shows the frequent overlap between anxiety and neurodivergent conditions.¹ For example, individuals with autism are more prone to experiencing anxiety because of the social and sensory difficulties associated with their condition.² Other research states that about 80% of individuals with ADHD experience an anxiety disorder.^{3, 4}

It’s important to note that further studies are needed to understand the relationship between anxiety and neurodivergence fully.

Neurodivergent Disorders That Often Occur With Anxiety

Research shows that there is a high occurrence of anxiety in individuals with neurodivergent disorders.¹ The primary reason for this co-occurrence is that individuals with neurodivergent conditions often struggle socially, are extra sensitive to their environment, and process information differently, which can result in higher levels of anxiety. to heightened anxiety. It’s important to note that neurodivergence does not cause anxiety.

Neurodivergent disorders that commonly co-occur with anxiety include:

Autism & Anxiety

Around 40% of individuals who qualify for an autism diagnosis also struggle with anxiety.⁵ Experts indicate that anxiety and autism may have a shared genetic origin.⁶ Additionally, when lacking resources for autism or feeling the need to perform socially or “mask,” individuals with autism can also experience anxiety.⁶

There are other ways that anxiety and autism may go together. Individuals with both conditions often have an attention to detail that makes transitions from one task to another very difficult.⁶ Also, in both conditions, people can suffer from sensory sensitivities, where sight, noise, touch, smell, or taste can overwhelm the person.⁶

ADHD & Anxiety

ADHD and anxiety co-occur at a rate of around 47%-56%, meaning that almost half of people with ADHD also qualify for an anxiety disorder diagnosis.⁷ The executive dysfunction in ADHD may cause anxiety symptoms for individuals in school or work settings when they are unable to fulfill obligations. The inability to fulfill obligations can cause feelings of low self-worth, which contribute to the cycle of feeling unable to fulfill expectations.

People who have both conditions tend to have more ADHD symptoms in childhood.⁷ They also tend to have more issues with regulating emotion than those with only one of the conditions.⁷ Studies indicate individuals with both conditions have higher rates of suicidal ideation, hospitalization, and problems regulating their anger.⁷

OCD & Anxiety

Some experts suggest OCD is neurodivergent because of hyperactivity in certain brain regions, cognitive patterns similar to the repetitive behaviors found in autism, and some symptoms of altered brain connectivity. Studies indicate rates of anxiety in those with OCD are around 30%, specifically for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).⁸

Specific Learning Disorders & Anxiety

Around 21% of children with specific learning disorders (SLD) also qualify for an anxiety disorder.⁹ Experts indicate that children with SLD often have trouble with internalizing and externalizing problems.⁹ Internalizing problems might show up in SLD and anxiety disorders through social anxiety, isolation, or self-blame. Externalizing problems might show up as poor impulse control, inattention, or breaking the rules.

Tourette Syndrome & Anxiety (TS)

Anxiety is a common co-occurring condition in individuals with Tourette syndrome (TS) at around a rate of 18%.¹⁰ Tics can worsen with anxiety, stress, or even excitement.¹¹ Similar to anxiety disorders, tics may improve during periods of calm or quiet engagement in an activity.¹¹

People with TS and anxiety may experience anticipatory anxiety when they feel pressure to minimize or suppress their tics during certain events, such as quiet social gatherings. When a person experiences fear in these types of situations, someone may develop anxiety before, during, or after these events.

How to Know If You Are Neurodivergent

Recognizing if you are neurodivergent typically involves seeking a professional evaluation. Various healthcare professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, neurologists, and developmental specialists, can help in this process. Signs that may indicate neurodivergence can vary depending on the specific condition but generally include atypical social interactions, sensory sensitivities, repetitive behaviors, learning difficulties, executive function challenges, or unique talents and strengths.

If you suspect that you may be neurodivergent, you should consider seeking an assessment to obtain a formal diagnosis and gain a better understanding of neurodivergent traits. A professional evaluation can provide valuable insights, guidance, and support tailored to your unique needs and experiences.

Signs and symptoms of neurodivergence include:

• Atypical social interactions or difficulties in social communication
• Sensory processing differences and prone to sensory overload
• Repetitive behaviors or restricted interests
• Difficulties with attention, focus, or impulsivity
• Challenges with executive functioning, such as organization or planning
• Differences in learning style or academic performance
• Language or communication differences, including speech delays or echolalia
• Heightened or reduced sensitivity to stimuli, such as sound, touch, or light
• Emotional regulation challenges, including anxiety, depression, or mood swings
• Unique talents, strengths, or areas of intense interest
• Difficulties with verbal and nonverbal communication

When to Seek Professional Support

If you or someone you love is neurodivergent and struggling with anxiety, therapy can help.  It is important to find a neurodiverse-affirming therapist who is experienced in treating anxiety. An online therapist directory is a great way to find a therapist in your area. Alternatively, an online therapy for anxiety platform can be a good choice if you prefer therapy from the comfort of your own home.

Treatment for Anxiety

Treatment options for anxiety generally include therapy and medication, as well as lifestyle changes. Therapy for anxiety generally includes psychoeducation around the cycle of anxious thoughts and emotions, approaching situations that cause anxiety, and learning strategies to cope with physical symptoms. Some people may also find relief in lifestyle changes or holistic treatments, such as movement, dietary adjustments, or stress management.

Here are some effective treatment options for anxiety:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT for anxiety typically involves learning about the connection between negative thinking patterns, anxiety, and avoidance. Through learning the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behavior, individuals can practice challenging their thought patterns to experience more adaptive emotions and behaviors.
• Exposure Therapy: Exposure therapy for anxiety typically involves gradually exposing the person to their feared situation. An exposure therapist will work with you to create imaginal scenarios all the way up to direct exposure to the trigger for your anxiety. This works best when there is a specified phobia or situation causing the anxiety.
• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): ACT for anxiety typically involves a combination of mindfulness, cognitive, and behavioral strategies focused on helping a person build cognitive flexibility. An ACT therapist will work with you to determine what core values you can commit to living through despite challenges with anxiety.
• Solution-focused therapy (SFT): SFT is a brief, goal-directed approach for managing anxiety symptoms. An SFT therapist will work with you to set clearly specified goals for treatment success, help you build on strengths, and focus on clearing obstacles from your path to growth.
• Medication: Medications for anxiety, such as antidepressants, benzodiazepines, or beta-blockers, can be helpful additions to talk therapy. Some people find that rescue medications can help them build the confidence to approach situations that cause them anxiety until they learn more coping skills for anxiety through therapy sessions.