Writing the Way We Think: Celebrating Neurodiversity in Writing for Wellbeing

By Kate Poll, Co-editor, Lapidus Magazine | Writing for Wellbeing Research Consultant | Therapeutic Writing Practitioner | katepoll.co.uk

This Neurodiversity Celebration Week, I want to take a moment to celebrate the rich diversity of minds that make up our Lapidus International community. As writers, facilitators, and creatives, we know that no two people experience the world in exactly the same way—so why should we expect writing for wellbeing to be one-size-fits-all?

Writing can be a powerful tool for processing experiences, finding clarity, and fostering self-compassion—but for neurodivergent individuals, the experience of writing and self-expression can be shaped by unique challenges and strengths. For many, school environments didn’t support their learning style, leaving them feeling frustrated, unheard, or disconnected from traditional approaches to writing. Reclaiming writing as a personal, flexible, and creative tool can be both healing and empowering.

I speak from both personal and professional experience. I was diagnosed with ADHD only last year, after years of misdiagnosis—a common experience, especially for women, who often mask symptoms or receive diagnoses of anxiety, depression, or even bipolar disorder before their neurodivergence is recognised. I also come from a family rich in neurodivergence of all kinds, which has shaped my deep appreciation for the many ways people process, think, and create.

In my work with Lapidus International, as a writing for wellbeing practitioner, and in my research consultancy, I support a wide range of individuals, with diverse neurodivergent and accessibility needs, including stroke and acquired brain injury survivors. I am passionate about making creative and therapeutic writing as inclusive, adaptable, and engaging as possible.

Neurodiversity & Writing for Wellbeing
Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in human brain function and processing styles. While definitions vary, commonly recognised forms include:

Dyslexia – Challenges with reading and writing, accompanied by strengths in creativity, problem-solving, and pattern recognition.​

ADHD – Characterised by diverse attention regulation styles, including challenges in maintaining focus, organisation, and task completion. Individuals often exhibit dynamic thinking, creativity, and the capacity for sustained focus on interests.​

Autism – Involves unique social and sensory processing, with strengths in attention to detail, deep focus, exceptional memory, and rich inner worlds. ​

AuDHD (Co-occurring Autism & ADHD) – A blend of deep focus and impulsivity, leading to unique sensory and executive function challenges. Writers with AuDHD may find traditional structures restrictive but thrive with creative flexibility.​

Dyspraxia – Involves coordination, organisation, and processing challenges, with strengths in big-picture thinking and problem-solving.​

Tourette’s Syndrome – Neurological differences affecting impulse control and vocal or motor tics, often linked to creativity and quick thinking.​

Acquired Neurodiversity – Occurs post-stroke or brain injury, leading to shifts in cognitive patterns and communication styles, necessitating new ways of working and adapting.

There is also an increasing recognition of the intersection between neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ identities. Many neurodivergent individuals find that writing provides a powerful space to explore identity, process societal expectations, and connect with a sense of authenticity. I’d love to hear from those for whom writing has played a role in navigating both neurodivergence and LGBTQIA+ identity.

Some broaden the definition to include mental health conditions or highly sensitive processing styles, recognising the diversity in how we learn, focus, express ourselves, and regulate emotions.

When it comes to writing for wellbeing, these differences matter. A structured, linear writing exercise might be ideal for one person but overwhelming for another. Some may struggle with the act of writing itself, finding audio journalling or visual storytelling more effective. Others may hyperfocus, struggle with perfectionism, or battle an internalised critical voice that silences their words before they reach the page.

What Helps? Writing Strategies for Neurodivergence
At Lapidus, we understand and celebrate the diverse ways we process words and I am keen to hear more from you. What strategies have helped you, as a neurodivergent writer or facilitator? Which writing tools, workshop structures, or creative exercises best support your wellbeing?

I’d love to hear from members about what works for them, including:

• Alternative ways to engage with writing (audio journalling, visual mapping, tactile approaches)
  Prompts that unlock creativity without overwhelm
  
  
• Course structures that help with focus and emotional regulation
  
  
• How writing for wellbeing has helped you navigate neurodivergence
  
  
• Incorporation of other arts therapies (music, movement, visual arts)

If you’re interested in neurodivergent-friendly writing workshops or are a facilitator wanting to create more inclusive spaces, email me directly: katepoll@gmail.com

Upcoming: Compassion Journalling for Neurodivergent Minds
Building on my work in Compassion Journalling, I am currently developing a workshop specifically tailored to neurodivergent participants—recognising the unique challenges of self-criticism, emotional regulation, and identity development for those with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and more.

I am also exploring a workshop specifically for neurodivergent women, addressing:

• The intersection of ADHD, hormones, and self-perception
  
  
• Masking, self-trust, and unlearning internalised criticism
  
  
• Writing as a way to process late diagnosis and self-discovery

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
Writing for wellbeing can be inclusive, accessible, and adaptable. Small shifts in facilitation—such as using multi-sensory exercises, offering flexible formats, and reducing perfectionism—can make writing more engaging for neurodivergent participants while enriching the experience for everyone.

I am keen to connect with writers, practitioners, and professionals who share this passion. Whether you are a neurodivergent writer, a facilitator looking to create more inclusive spaces, or a researcher interested in neurodiversity and writing for wellbeing, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

For Lapidus Magazine contributions: magazine@lapidus.org.uk
For workshops, facilitator training & research collaborations: katepoll@gmail.com

 Explore further resources on neurodiversity & writing:
 Lexxic (Specialists in neurodiversity at work)
 British Dyslexia Association
 ADHD Foundation
 National Autistic Society
 Dyspraxia Foundation
 Tourette’s Action
 Headway – The Brain Injury Association

Together, let’s celebrate neurodivergent voices, experiences, and ways of being. Your words matter, and your story deserves to be shared.

Follow & Connect
 Instagram: the_writing_path_
 LinkedIn: Kate Poll