As society progresses towards greater inclusivity, understanding, and acceptance, it's crucial to recognise and celebrate the diverse ways our brains work.
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What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is the recognition that neurological differences are natural variations of the human brain rather than deficits or disorders. It emphasises the value of embracing these differences and creating environments that accommodate and celebrate neurodiverse individuals. Neurodiversity isn't just a concept; it's a celebration of the unique strengths, perspectives, and contributions of individuals with diverse neurological differences including:
- Autism or Autism Spectrum Conditions
- ADHD: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADD: Attention Deficit Disorder
- Dyslexia
- Dyscalculia
- Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD).
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Other forms of neurodiversity also include:
- Cognitive functioning difficulties or executive dysfunction
- Dysgraphia
- Misophonia
- Slow processing speed
- Stammering
- Tourette’s syndrome
This is what the neurodiverse community has to say:
- “A huge positive are the gifts that come with being dyslexic. I am able to see the world in ways that others cannot, which has enabled me to build a unique business that is solving problems that in some cases, people have said would be impossible to solve. We live in a world where we are constantly compared to others – I make efforts to focus on me and my journey whilst staying inspired by people around me. I’d also say do not be afraid to ask for help. We’re wired differently and that’s beautiful. Being wired differently means we may need assistance that’s okay too. Embrace support.” - Onyinye Udokporo, CEO & Founder at Enrich Learning, EdTech Entrepreneur, Educator, Public Speaker, Dyslexic Author & Advisor at Mattr
- “ADHD helps me to create an abundance of original ideas quickly. When I go into "hyper-focus" I can accomplish high-quality work, in a short period of time.” - Patricia Bidi, Visual Artist, Painter and Printmaker at Studio Bidi
- “Autism is not a disease to be cured, but a neurodevelopmental difference to be understood and accepted.” - Daniel M. Jones, Autistic Influencer, Author, Coach and Educator
- “As I grew up I started to realise, I was going to struggle in some areas and excel in others. Maths and spelling, no chance, problem-solving or idea creation with flexibility in the process, I'm your man. And here's why dyslexics are needed more than ever, the world is facing huge problems and with that, we need expert problem solvers. If everyone thought process was the same we would have never had Apple, Murder On The Orient Express, The parachute or even the helicopter, all of these gifts to the world were created by dyslexics.” - Jamie Johnston, CEO & Co-Founder of Mattr.
Neurodiversity Celebration Week
Neurodiversity Celebration Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness, promoting acceptance, and celebrating neurodiversity in all its forms. It's a time to highlight the strengths and talents of neurodiverse individuals and challenge stigma and misconceptions.
Neurodiversity and relationships
In the realm of dating, neurodiversity plays a significant role in how individuals interact, communicate, and form relationships. However, navigating the dating scene can be challenging for neurodiverse individuals due to stigma, misconceptions, and societal expectations.
For example, individuals with autism often exhibit a range of strengths that can greatly enhance dating and relationships including unwavering loyalty, honesty and direct communication, as pointed out by April Slocombe, neurodivergent Author and Creator.
“ADHD can bring excitement into a relationship,” - says Karen Doherty, leading ADHD Couples Therapist, “there’s always something new happening, making things more exciting. ADHD individuals also bring authenticity and passion to the table.”
Dyspraxic individuals tend to have great sende of humour, says “Renegade Dyspraxic”, Dyspraxic Author, Educator and Advocate. “I cannot say why this is but I can only assume that one of the reasons for our humour is due to the difficulties that we face in life. As such having the ability to laugh and/or make other people laugh is something that many of us develop.”
People with Tourette Syndrome often excel in dating due to their strong verbal skills, quick wit, and well-honed sense of humour. With these qualities, charming others comes naturally—just give yourself the chance to shine.
Our mission is to create a safe space where both neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals can connect authentically without fear of judgement or stigma. By fostering an inclusive environment, we’re breaking down barriers and redefining what it means to find love in the digital age.
“We’re trying to create synergies, not silos. No one wants to be treated differently, and that’s why Mattr is inclusive to all genders, sexual orientations and neurological conditions! Let’s learn more about each other, who knows who your perfect match is.” - Jamie Johnston, CEO & Co-Founder of Mattr.
By promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion, we can create a world where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves. And remember, love knows no neurotypicality – let's celebrate love in all its beautiful forms, unmasked and without stigma. Join us at Mattr and be a part of the movement towards a more inclusive and accepting society.