Here at the University of Reading, we are here to support your university journey. We realise that University life and studies can at times feel overwhelming, so we have highlighted the opportunities and resource available to neurodivergent students, to help you thrive at the University of Reading.
The term ‘neurodivergent’ is interpreted in many different ways depending on the individual or organisation. The broader term ‘neurodiversity’ simply refers to every human brain being unique.
‘Neurodivergent’ on the other hand refers to a human brain with what is considered to be an atypical experience, and is most commonly considered to include:
- Autism spectrum conditions (including Asperger’s)
- ADHD
- Specific learning difficulties (including dyslexia, dyspraxia, etc.)
However, there is no specific definition or list of conditions which is universally accepted, so to some neurodivergence would include:
- Mental health conditions (including c/PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, etc.)
- Learning disabilities and developmental conditions
- Brain injuries
- Epilepsy
- Tourette’s syndrome
- Any other condition which affects the brain
Most importantly, neither neurotypical nor neurodivergent individuals are better or worse than each other, they simply may be different to each other.
The Disability Advisory Service are here to support you with accessing your learning regardless of your personal kind of neurodivergence or other disability or condition. The Disability Advisory Service is with you every step of your university journey, and you can contact the team via email (disability@reading.ac.uk), you can call 0118 378 4202 every weekday between 10am and 4pm, or visit the team in the Carrington Building between 10am and 4pm.