Neurodivergent people can sometimes benefit from using tools to help manage different aspects of their lives. Friends and family members may also find some of these resources helpful to support neurodivergent children or relatives.
Digital tools
Digital apps can provide quick, accessible support to help people through their daily lives. These tools are accessible through smartphones, tablets and computers. The Dorset App Library from the Organisation for the Review of Care & Health Applications (ORCHA) can help you to find the right digital health tool for you.
Search for apps for neurodivergent people (tip – type in ‘neurodiverse’ for the widest search results) or condition-specific apps that can help with areas such as organisation, communication and focus.
Please be aware that some apps may not be suitable for your needs, and there may be a one-off cost or subscription fee for some apps, although many are free.
Practical tools
A wide range of practical supports are available for neurodivergent people. These can include lanyards and ‘passports’ for particular venues, as well as helpful document templates and cards that are available in downloadable and printable formats. Tools are available to help in a variety of situations and on a variety of topics, including communication, physical and mental health, daily activity planning and support with activities like going to the dentist or hospital.
Autism resources
- National Autistic Society – cards and downloadable resources
- National Autistic Society – helpful tools within advice and guidance topics
- Ambitious About Autism – resources and downloads for young people and parents
ADHD resources
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple tool for you to voluntarily share that you have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent. It lets people know you may need a helping hand, understanding, or more time in shops, at work, on transport, or in public spaces. More and more places are becoming aware of people wearing sunflower items, often a lanyard. Learn more on the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website.
Sensory resources
Taking in sights, sounds, touch, smells and tastes is how we understand the world around us. Everybody interprets sensory information differently and for neurodivergent people, processing sensory stimuli can be difficult. Autistic people often have senses that are over or under sensitive, which can have a big impact on how they feel and act.
The National Autistic Society has a detailed guide about sensory differences.
If you experience sensory overload, there are some strategies that can help:
- Change environments or change the sensory input
Reduce sound, light and noise in the environment or move to a calmer setting. For some neurodivergent people, changing the sensory input can support them to concentrate on tasks they want to do.
- Calming strategies
Using a fidget toy, sitting under a weighted blanket, smelling pleasant scents, rocking on a chair or wearing ear defenders can all help.
Our guide to self-care and wellbeing also contains helpful information about managing sensory overload and ideas for creating a sensory kit.
Each person is unique and what may help one neurodivergent person may not help another, but the resources below may be useful.
