Building on Neurodiversity Celebration Week

Neurodiversity Celebration Week has officially wrapped up - but if we want real change, the conversations can’t stop here. This week’s newsletter is focused on keeping the conversation, awareness and change going, using one of my favourite tactics - challenging social norms!

It’s also World Bipolar Day on March 30th, a time to raise awareness and challenge misconceptions about a condition that’s often misunderstood and ignored so I’m talking about that too.

Let’s dive in.

This week’s newsletter includes:

• Info: Exploring social norms that are a barrier for neurodivergent people

• Tips: 5 ways to support someone with bipolar disorder

• Recommendations: Some resources to learn more about bipolar disorder

1. What are the most unnecessary social norms?

Last week, we shared an activity pack for you to use in your teams, and communities. One of the tasks in that pack asked you to challenge unnecessary social norms. You know, the invisible rules we follow without thinking. Like wearing ‘day clothes’ and ‘bed clothes’ (why are they different?!), or expecting everyone to sit during a meeting, or assuming eye contact equals attention.

So - how did it go? Did you try the activity? What norms came up in your group? Reply with your most though-provoking ones!

If you haven’t done it yet, now’s a great time to give it a go. It’s a brilliant way to keep the momentum going post-Neurodiversity Celebration Week.

Here are just a few social norms that I think are ripe for a rethink:

• Eating three meals a day at specific times (what if that doesn’t work for your body or brain?)

• Dressing a certain way depending on time of day or setting

• Sitting still to focus, rather than standing, pacing, or fidgeting

• Making eye contact to show respect or concentration

• Speaking up in group settings instead of sharing ideas in writing

When we challenge norms, we create space for neurodivergent people to thrive - and for everyone to rethink what’s “normal.”

👉 Haven’t got the activity pack yet? You still can! Reply with the word ACTIVITIES and I’ll send it straight across.

2. Raising awareness of dipolar disorder

March 30th is World Bipolar Day, which makes this the perfect time to shed some light on a condition that’s often misunderstood.

Let’s get one thing straight - bipolar disorder isn’t just about being moody. It’s a serious mental health condition that affects mood, energy, focus, and daily functioning. And yet, stigma and stereotypes are still everywhere.

Here are some important things to know:

1. Bipolar disorder is often misdiagnosed, especially in autistic women and girls. Emotional intensity or shutdowns in autism can be mistaken for bipolar symptoms.

2. However, it’s important to remember you can be both autistic and bipolar. Co-occurrence is common - but often overlooked.

3. There’s an ongoing conversation about whether bipolar disorder belongs under the neurodivergent umbrella. Some say yes, because it affects the brain and how people experience the world. Others see it as a distinct mental health condition. Both views are valid, and identity should always be a personal choice.

5 ways to support someone with bipolar disorder

Whether a friend, colleague, student, or family member, here’s how you can offer meaningful support:

1. Ditch the stereotypes. Bipolar disorder isn’t just about being ‘really happy’ or ‘really sad.’ It’s a spectrum that includes hypomania, depression, and mixed episodes, all of which can be challenging.

2. Understand that energy levels fluctuate. A person in a manic phase might be full of ideas and energy, but in a depressive phase, even responding to a message can feel impossible. Be patient and understanding rather than taking changes personally.

3. Create a judgement-free space. People with bipolar disorder often feel like they have to hide their struggles for fear of being labeled ‘unstable’ or ‘unreliable.’ Make it clear that they don’t need to mask their reality around you.

4. Be mindful of language. Avoid phrases like “you’re so bipolar” or dismissing emotions as “just a mood swing.” Language matters, and using it thoughtfully can help reduce stigma.

5. Encourage, but don’t push. Medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments can be incredibly helpful, but they’re personal choices. Instead of saying, “You should try this,” say, “Would you like to hear about something that’s helped others?”

3. Recommendations and further resources

If you want to dive deeper into understanding bipolar disorder, here are some excellent resources:

• Bipolar UK: A UK charity supporting people with bipolar disorder - with lots of amazing resources on their website.

• Video: What is Bipolar Disorder? – A short and accessible explainer from the National Institute of Mental Health. Watch it here.

Challenging social norms and raising awareness about bipolar disorder are very much aligned - they’re both about creating a world where people can show up as their whole, real selves.

Let’s keep talking, keep listening, and keep dismantling the things that don’t serve us.

Until next time, stay curious and keep challenging the norm!
Jess 😊

PS Whenever you’re ready, here are some ways I can help:

• Want me to speak in your organisation? Head here to book a chat and make a plan.

• Book a FREE Discovery call to chat through how I can support your workplace, your school or your family.

• Join the waitlist for our next NeuroNavigator programme and become a certified Neurodiversity Champion. Doors open June 2025 for Sept start.