Moving Beyond Diagnostic Labels to Embrace My Neuro-Profile
Note to Reader: In this article, I share my journey from relying on traditional diagnostic labels to embracing a detailed neuro-profile that reflects my unique way of thinking and processing. I explain how focusing on my specific cognitive, sensory, and motor traits has empowered me to understand my needs, develop tailored strategies, and create a calmer day-to-day life. I also explore how shifting from a deficit-focused view to recognising natural variations can transform support systems, and I invite readers to join the ND Perspective community to discuss these ideas further.
Topic: Neurodiversity, Neuro-Profile, Diagnostic Labels, Self-Acceptance, Inclusive Support
I've always found the human brain to be incredibly complex, and over time, I have come to understand that my way of thinking and processing is unique. For me, the traditional diagnostic labels never fully captured the range of my strengths and challenges. Instead, building a detailed neuro-profile has helped me gain a clearer picture of my own cognitive, sensory, and motor traits.
My Experience with Diagnostic Labels
Understanding my neurodivergence wasn’t straightforward. Between the ages of 25 and 38, I received several diagnostic labels that only explained parts of my experience. They focused mainly on my struggles, overlooking the full range of thoughts and feelings that shape who I am. While these labels offered an initial understanding, they never captured the complete picture of how I truly interact with the world.
Discovering My Neuro-Profile
In my pursuit of figuring out how to live my life more fully, I began to develop my neuro-profile—a simple, clear summary of how my brain works. This profile covers areas such as:
Language Processing and Expression: I often find it difficult to process spoken or written language and to express my thoughts clearly.
Understanding Written Information: Reading and summarising text can be challenging for me.
Organising Ideas: I sometimes struggle to put my thoughts into a clear, structured format.
Motor Coordination: I notice differences in both my large movements and fine motor skills.
Attention and Focus: There are times when I can concentrate intensely, and other times when getting started feels nearly impossible.
Sensory Processing: I am highly sensitive to noise, light, or other sensory inputs.
Response to Feedback: I tend to have a strong emotional reaction when given direct feedback.
Physical Traits: For instance, I experience hypermobility, where my joints extend more than usual, and stress can cause me physical symptoms like dizziness or nausea.
Building this profile has been truly empowering. It has helped me see that my brain isn’t defined by deficits at all—instead, it’s a unique mix of traits, each with its own strengths and opportunities for growth.
Why I Prefer Neuro-Profiles
For me, a neuro-profile is far more useful than a simple diagnostic label. It offers a personal roadmap that helps me understand why certain situations are more challenging and where I can build on my strengths. By focusing on my specific traits, I have been able to seek out tailored strategies and support that suit my needs.
For example, rather than trying to fit into a one-size-fits-all approach, I have found targeted strategies to help with language processing, sensory overwhelm, and motor coordination. This approach has made a real difference in my day-to-day life, allowing me to feel emotionally and physically calmer.
Shifting the Focus: From Deficit to Diversity
Moving from diagnostic labels to neuro-profiles has been a transformative change for me. Instead of viewing differences as problems, I now see them as natural variations in how we think and process the world. This new perspective has boosted my self-acceptance and given me the confidence to ask for the support I need—because I understand my needs and know how to express them.
I believe this shift can have a broader impact too. When teachers, employers, and support workers recognise and adapt to different ways of processing, they create environments where everyone can succeed. Ultimately, this approach can transform how society supports those with neurodivergence, leading to more inclusive and positive experiences for all.
Joining the Conversation
If you're interested in discussing these ideas further, please sign up or log in to the ND Perspective community, where we will be discussing this blog in more detail. Sharing our experiences and insights can help all of us move beyond traditional diagnostic labels and truly understand our unique neuro-profiles.
Embracing my unique neuro-profile has not only improved my self-understanding but also empowered me to seek the support that truly makes a difference. I hope my journey inspires you to look beyond labels and celebrate the full range of what makes us who we are.
Supporting and Celebrating Our Neurodivergent Community,
Jess xx