Embodied Neurodiversity: Navigating Physicality from Autism to ADHD
Autism and ADHD can impact the body and its functions in various ways through their influence on neural development and sensory processing. The relationship between the brain’s structure and function and the physical manifestations of these conditions is complex and can vary significantly between individuals. Below, we will review ways in which the divergent body might be affected.
How Autism Affects the Body:
Motor Coordination and Balance: Autism can affect the cerebellum and basal ganglia, areas of the brain involved in movement and coordination. This can lead to challenges with balance, motor skills, and activities that require fine motor control, such as writing or fastening buttons.
Sensory Processing: Many autistic individuals have differences in how their brains process sensory information. The sensory cortex may react unusually to stimuli, leading to hypersensitivities (overstimulation) or hyposensitivities (understimulation) to sounds, lights, touch, tastes, and smells. Overstimulation can cause physical distress and may manifest as a need to escape a situation, cover ears, or shut eyes to reduce sensory input.
Physical Signs Throughout the Lifetime:
- Infancy: Lack of coordination in motor skills, such as delayed sitting up, crawling, or walking.
- Childhood: Clumsiness, difficulty with sports, or fine motor tasks; adverse reactions to loud noises or certain textures.
- Adolescence: Continued sensory challenges can affect social participation; self-care tasks may be difficult due to motor skill issues.
- Adulthood: Sensory processing issues persist, possibly affecting work environments; repetitive stress injuries can occur due to stimming behaviors.
How ADHD Affects the Body:
Hyperactivity and Restlessness: ADHD is often characterized by a constant need for movement. The brain’s reward system, particularly the dopamine pathways, may be involved, driving an individual to seek constant stimulation. This can manifest as fidgeting, an inability to stay seated, or a feeling of inner restlessness.
Impulse Control and Coordination: The prefrontal cortex, which is implicated in planning and impulse control, may function differently in individuals with ADHD. This can lead to impulsivity, which sometimes results in physical accidents or injuries due to acting without thinking.
Physical Signs Throughout the Lifetime:
- Infancy: Excessive movement, difficulty with feeding or sleeping due to restlessness.
- Childhood: Injuries from running or climbing excessively, fidgeting, tapping, or difficulties with quiet activities.
- Adolescence: Risky behaviors due to poor impulse control; fatigue from poor sleep patterns.
- Adulthood: Physical manifestations like tension headaches or digestive issues due to stress; chronic fatigue from constantly being ‘on the go.’
Self-Care Importance:
For both autistic and ADHD individuals, self-care is crucial. Adequate sleep, nutrition, physical activity, and regular breaks can help manage symptoms and support overall well-being. For instance, routine exercise can help regulate energy levels and improve concentration for those with ADHD, while predictable routines and calm environments can significantly benefit autistic individuals.
Self-Care Strategies:
- Sleep: Consistent sleep schedules and sleep hygiene practices can improve rest quality.
- Diet: Balanced nutrition supports overall brain and body function. Some may benefit from dietary adjustments if they have specific food sensitivities.
- Breaks: Scheduled downtime can prevent sensory overload for autistic individuals and help those with ADHD to recharge and refocus.
- Environment: Creating sensory-friendly spaces at home or work can reduce overstimulation for autistic individuals. Similarly, structured and clutter-free environments can help those with ADHD to focus and reduce anxiety.
By understanding the bodily effects of autism and ADHD and the brain regions involved, individuals and caregivers can tailor strategies to meet specific needs and support lifelong health and development.