A new article introduces a dimensional approach to understanding the mental health needs of neurodivergent people. A groundbreaking article published in the leading psychiatry journal World Psychiatry challenges the traditional approach to diagnosing neurodivergent conditions (also known as "neurodevelopmental disorders" in the medical literature), such as autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. The research introduces a new transdiagnostic framework that views these conditions as points on a spectrum rather than distinct categories and recognizes their frequent overlap with mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety.

Approximately 15% of the global population is neurodivergent, often experiencing multiple conditions simultaneously. Current diagnostic systems, like the DSM-5 and ICD-11, separate these conditions into distinct categories (or "labels"), overlooking their shared characteristics and complex interplay. Leading an international group of experts in the field, Dr.

Giorgia Michelini (Lecturer in Psychology at Queen Mary University of London) proposes a more holistic approach, focusing on their commonalities. By recognizing the overlapping features of neurodivergent conditions, we can develop a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of their diverse manifestations. This new perspective has the potential to revolutionize how we identify, assess, and support the mental health needs of neurodivergent individuals.

" Dr. Giorgia Michelini, Lecturer in P.