We know that neurodivergent people and those who support them may be disproportionately affected by poor mental health for many reasons. This page touches on the work we have been doing to improve mental health outcomes for our neurodivergent population in West Yorkshire.
The illustration below was created by a Keighley-based street artist and depicts the concept of ‘masking,’ exploring what is happening beneath the surface when she masks.
Charlie, who is neurodivergent, discusses the links with neurodiverse people and poor mental health. "If you’ve gone undiagnosed as a child and entered adulthood, the likelihood is that you will have mental health issues because you’ve had to endure and get through somehow’’. Listen more to Charlie's story.
Find mental health support
If you are struggling with your emotional health and/or wellbeing, help is available for you. The most important action you can take is to let someone know how you are feeling and what you are going through. They can then help you to find the right kind of support. This could be talking to a friend or family member – someone you trust – about how you are feeling and what is going on.
You can also access or contact one of the following services for free, confidential support:
- NightOWLS is for every child or young person in West Yorkshire who is experiencing a mental health crisis at night. Open 8pm-8am every day. Call free 0800 1488244, text 079843 76950 (charges may apply) or online chat at www.
wynightowls.org.uk. - Healthier Together – Neurodiversity pages
- Suicide Prevention West Yorkshire
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, you can find help from our 24/7 crisis support lines:
#AutismADHDAllies campaign
#AutismADHDAllies launched in 2022 as part of the neurodiversity deep dive work across the West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership. Working together with stakeholders we aim to build an inclusive and supportive community. Embracing neurodiversity to empower individuals, and foster collaboration between professionals, families, and those with lived experience. We strive to create a future where everyone can thrive by championing awareness, advocacy, and action.
National support services:
- Samaritans – call 116 123
- Shout – text SHOUT to 85258
- Childline – children and young people can call 0800 1111
Want more information about neurodiversity and mental health?
Click on the links to the websites below, to find further help and advice on a range of topics linked to neurodiversity and mental health: