Preventing Burnout

as a Neurodivergent University Student

What is neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is a way of saying that human brains are different to each other. Neurodiversity includes every single human being. Just like biodiversity describes all life on Earth, neurodiversity describes the diversity of all human brains. Some people are neurodivergent, meaning their brains function in ways that diverge from societal norms. Thus includes:

  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) A condition with recurring thoughts (obsessions) and behaviours (compulsions).
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) A condition involving inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
  • Tourette’s Syndrome A neurological condition that causes involuntary movements or sounds called tics.
  • Cerebral Palsy A group of lifelong conditions affecting movement and coordination.
  • Dyslexia A learning difficulty that affects reading, spelling, and writing.
  • Head Trauma Brain injury from external force, which can affect behaviour, memory, and thinking.
  • Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder): a condition affecting coordination and motor skills.
  • Dyscalculia A learning difficulty affecting understanding of numbers and maths.

What is burnout?

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by extreme and constant stress.

Did you know?

1 in 7 people in the UK are neurodivergent and there are over 2.5 million students in university.

The risk of burnout is higher for neurodivergent students than neurotypical students.

Signs of burnout

  • Reduced tolerance to sensory sensitivities
  • Difficulty managing emotions
  • Loss of skills e.g. performing basic self-care and daily living activities
  • Increase in neurodivergent traits e.g. repetitive behaviours
  • Intense emotional, physical and mental exhaustion
  • Reduced executive functioning (e.g. thinking, remembering, creating and executing plans)

Causes of Neurodivergent Burnout

  • Emotional strain from relationship issues and mental health crises
  • Dismissive responses from peers or professionals
  • Difficulty setting boundaries
  • Struggles with self-advocacy
  • Overworking without adequate rest or self-care

  • Suppressing natural behaviours (e.g., stimming, avoiding eye contact)
  • Mimicking neurotypical behaviours
  • Consumes constant cognitive and emotional energy

  • Pressure to adapt to environments not designed for neurodivergent brains
  • Disruption of routines and major life transitions (e.g., starting university)
  • Expectation to meet neurotypical standards in work and society
  • Dismissal or misunderstanding from others

  • Exposure to crowded, noisy, and sensory-rich environments
  • Absence of adjustments to reduce sensory overwhelm

  • Unmet needs such as missing reasonable adjustments
  • Limited access to support service
  • Increased stress due to insufficient help

Solutions to prevent or recover from burnout

  • Accept yourself as you are - your needs, rhythms, and identity are valid.
  • Accept natural traits and unmask around supportive people.
  • Surround yourself with safe people where you can unmask without judgement. Learn healthy masking: use it selectively while preserving energy.
  • Connect with neurodivergent peers and communities for understanding and validation.

  • Unmasking
  • Stimming

  • Ask the university for help and reasonable accommodations

  • Time off and breaks
  • Social withdrawal when needed
  • Have rest booked into your schedule during the week

  • Setting boundaries
  • Being healthy (foods, exercise)
  • Proactive self-care: practicing self-care habits regularly
  • Managing your energy carefully

  • Find your strengths and triggers
  • Discover the early signs of stress and make strategic decisions in the future to prevent

Community

We recommend joining the SU’s Disabled Students Community - it provides an opportunity to meet like-minded people, enjoy tailored events and activities, and access further resources and support too.

Find Out More

Finding Support

Powered by MSL