Understanding Neurodivergent Teens

Adolescence is a time when where young people are learning who they are, where they fit in the world, and what they want for their life. This time of growth and change can be more difficult for neurodivergent teens, whose brains process information differently. While neurodivergence allows teens to offer new and different perspectives to the world, it also comes with a distinct set of challenges.

Research shows that neurodivergent individuals are at a greater risk of developing mental health conditions. And a new study finds that a higher rate of negative emotional experiences in school contribute to anxiety and depression in this population. Hence, as a parent it’s important to understand neurodivergence and the common co-occurring mental health disorders to know how best to support your child and whether professional treatment is needed.

Key Takeaways

• Neurodivergence is a term used to describe a difference in brain functioning, especially related to how the brain processes information.
• Common types of neurodivergence include autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, Down Syndrome, and dyscalculia.
• Neurodivergence is associated with a higher risk of certain mental health conditions.
• Helping neurodivergent teens understand that they are heard and respected can make a considerable difference in their ability to respond positively to the challenges they face.
• Our multidisciplinary treatment approach is affirming, strengthening each neurodivergent teen’s ability to build their skills and relate to the world in positive ways.

Common Types of Neurodivergence

There is not a clear consensus on which conditions are fully defined as neurodivergent. However, there are some common types of neurodivergence that are generally agreed upon.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Identified in the DSM-5 as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), autism means that a person has trouble with communication and social interactions. Teens with ASD may resort to restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests or activities. These symptoms are present in early developmental activities and interfere with normal life functioning.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that approximately 2 percent of adults have autism, and about 1 in 36 children are on the spectrum.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

According to the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA), ADHD is a genetic brain condition that has to do with regulating certain behaviors. Approximately five percent of adults in the US are estimated to have ADHD, which is about 11 million people.There are a couple types of ADHD:

• Inattentive ADHD: Often referred to as ADD, this is a type in which people find it difficult to complete plan or tasks and follow directions or discussions.
• Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD: Teens with this type of ADHD find it difficult to sit still for long periods. They fidget, act impulsively, and they tend to interrupt or have trouble waiting their turn.

A teen with symptoms of both conditions is considered to have Combined ADHD. Symptoms can change over time, but ADHD is not something that individuals outgrow.

Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a language-based learning condition that has to do with processing the written word, such as associating sounds with certain letters. Dyslexia is not a reflection of a person’s intelligence or desire to learn. The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) states that brain imagery showcases how a person with dyslexia has differences in their brain function versus those who do not.

Dysgraphia 

Dysgraphia is a condition where a person has problems with their handwriting, their spelling, or both. Those with dysgraphia experience issues with storing words in the working memory and moving their fingers in a way that would allow them to write or spell more accurately. However, dysgraphia is not a motor disorder. Dysgraphia sometimes shows up alongside dyslexia or ADHD. Translational Pediatrics says that between 10-30 percent of children have dysgraphia.

Down Syndrome

According to the CDC, approximately 1 in every 640 babies is born with Down Syndrome each year. Down Syndrome is a genetic condition related to an extra copy of chromosome 21. This results in certain physical characteristics, developmental concerns, and health issues. Children with Down Syndrome may experience delayed development and have challenges with attention span, verbal memory, and expressive communication.

Dyscalculia

Dyscalculia is another neurodivergent condition. It includes problems with processing numbers, particularly math equations and math facts. According to the Learning Disabilities Association of America, up to 7 percent of students may have dyscalculia.

Neurodivergent teens may have difficulty with sensory processing, while others find social interactions or being in group settings to be challenging. However, they may also have unique strengths, such as the ability to solve intricate math problems quickly or notice patterns and nuances that others overlook. Neurodivergent students may have difficulty in traditional classroom environments and can benefit from private tutoring or programs that give them tools to succeed as well as alternative ways to learn.

Mental Health Conditions Associated with Neurodivergence

Neurodivergence is associated with a higher risk of certain mental health conditions, therefore it’s important to watch for symptoms in neurodivergent children and teens. The Clinical Journal of Psychiatry reveals the rates of mental health conditions among children with autism. In a study of over 42,000 autistic children, they discovered:

• Nearly 78 percent of autistic children also had one mental health condition, and roughly half had two mental health conditions
• 60 percent had behavioral or conduct problems
• Nearly 40 percent had anxiety issues
• Nearly 50 percent had ADHD
• Nearly 16 percent had depression
• Rates of mental health conditions increased with age, with approximately 86 percent of autistic teens having at least one mental health condition
• Autistic girls had twice the likelihood of developing anxiety issues 
• Adverse childhood experiences increased the likelihood of autistic children developing anxiety issues

Moreover, according to Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder (CHADD), two out of three people with ADHD have at least one mental health condition. About 47 percent of adults with ADHD have depression, and 53 percent have anxiety. However, approximately 14 percent of children with ADHD have depression, and 30 percent have anxiety. 

Co-Occurring Neurodiversity

Co-occurring neurodiversity is common, and neurodiverse conditions often co-occur at high rates. The Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders revealed how often autism, ADHD, depression, and anxiety occur together:

• 57 percent of autistic females and 49 percent of autistic males also have ADHD
• 72 percent of autistic females with ADHD also had anxiety
• 69 percent of autistic males with ADHD also had anxiety
• Up to 39 percent of autistic individuals with ADHD had depression

Given that rates of mental health issues increase over time, strategic interventions during childhood and adolescence may have a positive impact on a neurodivergent person’s overall well-being.

Why Do Neurodivergent Kids Have More Mental Health Challenges?

Neurodivergent people are navigating a world that is not designed for their unique ways of thinking, seeing and behaving. Research shows that neurodivergent adolescents have 10 times the risk of mental health difficulties than their neurotypical peers. Anxiety and depression are common mental health issues for neurodivergent teens. Here are a few reasons why:

Negative Experiences at School: A 2025 study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that students with ADHD and/or ASD have twice the emotional burden as compared to their neurotypical peers. These students report experiencing more upsetting events at school, such as misunderstanding a social situation, being ignored by classmates, or being told they’re disruptive by a teacher. Furthermore, the distress and negative emotions triggered by these events appear to be more intense for these adolescents.

Sensory processing: The ways in which neurodivergent adolescents see, hear, smell, and feel are vastly different. Their sensitivity to certain stimuli is either significantly heightened or decreased. An increased sensory sensitivity can lead neurodivergent teens to experience higher levels of anxiety and distress, greatly impacting their ability to focus and learn in the classroom and fit in with peers.

Communication: Neurodivergent adolescents communicate differently or have difficulty in social settings, which can put them at risk of feeling lonely and isolated. Adolescents is a time when social acceptance is very important, therefore these differences can make neurodivergent teens the target of bullying. They may feel anxious about attending school or participating in any social activities.

Masking: Many neurodivergent teens will mask their true self to fit in and avoid discrimination. They may suppress their need to engage in “stimming” behaviors, acts used to regulate their emotions, such as rocking back and forth or pacing. Masking can be truly exhausting for a neurodivergent teen and lead to burnout. When a teen reaches this level of exhaustion, it can negatively impact their health, reduce quality of life and lead to suicidal behavior.

Signs of Mental Health Issues in Neurodivergent Teens

Neurodivergent teens may display similar symptoms as neurotypical teens when it comes to mental health disorders. According to Mental Health America, here are some signs of a potential mental health condition:

• Changes in appetite
• Persistent feelings of sadness
• Increased irritability or restlessness
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Tendency to isolate more than normal
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Increased anxiety or worry
• Angry outbursts
• Severe mood swings
• Extreme panic
• Hallucinations or memory problems
• Onset of new behaviors or repeated rituals

Many teens experience mood swings as a natural part of adolescence. However, if you notice a new intensity in your child’s behavior or a severely muted attitude toward their family, friends, and favorite activities, it may be worth consulting a mental health professional for an assessment.

How to Help Neurodivergent Teens Succeed

Neurodivergent teens may experience feelings of isolation or a sense of failure if they are unable to adapt to typical environments. Everyone faces distinct challenges in life, but helping neurodivergent teens understand that they are heard and respected can make a considerable difference in their ability to respond positively to those challenges.

An important way to help your neurodivergent teen is by helping them develop effective coping strategies. This will help them manage stress and anxiety and regulate their emotions, especially during stressful times. Coping strategies may include:

• Physical activities and exercise
• Mindfulness activities, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises
• Hobbies or creative activities
• Time with friends and family

Outpatient Treatment Specialized for Neurodivergent Teens

Neurodivergent adolescents have unique and valuable talents. However, they also have particular challenges, especially when it comes to mental health symptoms. At Newport Academy, our multidisciplinary treatment approach is affirming, strengthening each teen’s ability to build their skills and relate to the world in positive ways.

Our outpatient program for neurodivergent teens in Atlanta is specialized for teens with ADHD, ASD Level 1, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and other learning differences. It includes evidence-based treatment modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Attachment-Based Family Therapy. Our goal is to support emotional regulation, executive functioning, social proficiency, and overall life skills.

We work with a wide range of insurance providers, including TRICARE, to help your family access quality mental healthcare. For more information about our program and how we can help, get in touch with us today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

J Child Psychol Psychiatry. 2025 July; Early View.

Front Psychol. 2024 Jul;15: 1403129.

J Autism Dev Disord. 2024; 54: 563–576..

Transl Pediatr. 2020 Feb; 9(Suppl 1): 46–S54.

J Clin Psychiatry. 2020 Dec; 82(1): 20m13242.