Neurodiverse Mental Health Survey Results
Survey Title: Neurodiverse Mental Health
Taken Place: Spring 2021
Introduction:
Tees Valley Buddies wanted to find out if people with neurodivergent conditions are more likely to have a mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety and if having a neurodivergent condition can impact on mental health and wellbeing
We also wanted to find out if neurodivergent people with mental health conditions living in tees valley felt supported by primary care and the voluntary and community sector. As well as exploring what support services and interventions would be more beneficial in supporting the needs of neurodivergent people with mental health issues.
Conclusion
The results of the survey clearly shows that the majority of neurodivergent people have mental health issues . Anxiety and Depression were most common but also high rates of self-harming, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, addiction issues and PTSD were also reported. Many neurodivergent people felt strongly that their neurodiversity made their mental health worse, and others believed their mental health issues were caused by having a neurodivergent condition or difference. It was also reported that 85 respondents out of 110 who filled out the survey experienced bullying at school because they were different. This unfortunately has massively impacted their lives as many feel being bullied at school has caused or added to their mental health issues growing up and in adulthood. A high percentage of neurodivergent people who filled out the survey ( 75 respondents out of 110) are currently prescribed medicines for mental health issues. The Survey found 69 respondents out of 110 with mental health issues have not had any contact from a mental health professional in the last 12 months. Even though 54 respondents out of 74 said they would have liked to have seen a MH professional in the last 12 months. The survey reported the main reasons that stopped many respondents asking for help for their mental health was not knowing where to go, feeling they did not meet the criteria, not knowing how to speak to professionals and services or being too afraid to ask for help. The survey also found that neurodivergent people with mental health issues would prefer to receive mental health support from professionals who understand neurodiversity.
Many respondents felt talking therapies, peer support and wellbeing classes would help them most with their mental health. More than half of the respondents wanted support in accessing mental health services and support in understanding what mental health options are available. Many respondents also wanted support in understanding how neurodiversity can affect their mental health and emotional well being