By Tasnim Roza, 4th year student at the University of Toronto, Studying for a double major in Molecular Biology, Immunology and Disease, and Health Studies, and minor in Psychology.
Supervisor: Karen Don MSc. OT Reg. (Ont)
What does it mean to be neurodivergent?
Neurodivergence refers to brain differences that affect how a person processes information, learns, and responds to their environment, in ways that differ from what is considered “typical.” This can include diagnoses such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, sensory processing differences, and many more. These diagnoses are labels given to conditions that involve natural variations in how the brain works, and they come with both strengths and challenges.
Neurodivergent preteens (roughly ages 9-12) often face unique mental health challenges as they navigate school, friendships, and the changes of growing up. During this time, they may become more self-aware and more intensely compare themselves to others, making it even more important to support their emotional and psychological well-being.
What kinds of mental health challenges might neurodivergent preteens experience?
Some common mental health challenges may include:
● Low self-esteem – a negative perception of one’s own worth or abilities, which may develop from struggling to meet academic or social expectations.
● Emotional dysregulation – difficulty managing strong emotions like anger, sadness, or frustration
● Sensory overload – feeling overwhelmed in busy, noisy, or unpredictable environments
● Anxiety – including social anxiety, generalized anxiety, and school related stress
● Depression or low mood – especially if they feel misunderstood, isolated, or overwhelmed
It’s important to recognize that many of these emotional experiences can be a normal part of development during the preteen years. However, if these challenges persist for more than a few months, significantly impact daily life, or raise concerns for caregivers, it’s important to seek support from a doctor or other healthcare professional trained in mental health. Neurodivergent kids may also mask their struggles in order to appear “typical,” which can be especially exhausting and may increase feelings of stress. This developmental stage already brings increased vulnerability, and for neurodivergent children, the risk can be even greater. Early recognition and support can make a meaningful difference.
How can Occupational Therapy (OT) help?
Occupational therapists (OTs) can play a big role in supporting the mental health of neurodivergent preteens. Occupational therapy addresses a child’s participation in daily life activities which includes their bodies, brains, activities, and environments. It is about supporting the child’s whole development, including emotional well-being, sensory processing, and executive functioning.
Here’s how OT can help:
● Sensory regulation strategies: OTs can help identify sensory factors that add to dysregulation and teach children and their important grown-ups what dysregulation looks and feels like and help develop regulating techniques, such as deep breathing, deep pressure, movement breaks, using fidget tools or even when to leave a room for a break.
● Emotional regulation support: OTs work with kids and their important adults to recognize and label their emotions, understand what causes dysregulation, and learn emotional coping strategies tailored to their needs.
● Routine and transitions: OTs can help kids and families structure daily routines to make school mornings, after school, homework time, and bedtime smoother.
● Executive functioning: Preteens with ADHD or other neurological differences may struggle with planning, organizing, task completion, or managing time. OTs can help identify areas of strengths and weaknesses and teach practical skills and strategies using tools like self-talk, visual aids, planners, Apps, or games.
● Self-advocacy and confidence: OT sessions can build self-awareness and self-esteem which helps empower kids to know what and when to ask for what they need in home, school or social settings.
Who else can support a neurodivergent preteen?
Supporting neurodivergent mental health often takes a team approach. In addition to occupational therapists, other professionals who may help include:
● Psychologists – for assessments, therapy, mental health diagnoses and referrals
● Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) – for social communication or pragmatic language support as well as executive function skills
● Pediatricians and Psychiatrists – for screening, assessment, medical management and mental health care and referrals to specialists
● Educators and Resource Teachers – to provide learning accommodations and general support at school
● Social Workers – for family support, case coordination, and therapy and referrals
● Parents and caregivers – You and your child are the most important team members!!! You know your child the best and provide daily unconditional support at home, emotional coregulation and a tone of advocacy.
What can parents and caregivers do at home?
Here are some ways to support your neurodivergent preteen’s mental health:
● Validate their experiences: Even if you don’t fully understand why something is upsetting, let them know their feelings are valid.
● Create sensory safe spaces: Think about what helps your child feel their best and work with them to create spaces or sensory tools that can be available when your child feels overwhelmed.
● Encourage breaks: Breaks from socializing, phones, home and school demands can reduce stress from building up and improve regulation and focus.
● Model emotional expression: Use phrases like, “I’m feeling frustrated, so I’m going to take a deep breath” to teach emotional regulation.
● Stick to routines: Predictable routines offer comfort and reduce anxiety in many neurodivergent children.
● Celebrate strengths: Recognize your child’s talents and interests as well as their effort in managing their daily life and help them feel proud of who they are.
● Advocate with and for them: Whether at home, school or in health care, help ensure that your child is learning to use their own voice and that your child’s unique needs are understood, met and respected.
Next Steps: Getting Support That Fits Your Child
If your neurodivergent preteen is showing signs of mental health challenges, or if you’re simply looking to better support their development, reaching out for help is a sign of strength. Early support can make a big difference in helping your child feel safe, confident, and capable in their daily lives.
Interested in Occupational Therapy (OT) or Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) services?
Toronto Children’s Therapy Centre (TCTC) offers both OT and SLP services to support neurodivergent children and their families. Our experienced team works collaboratively with caregivers to create individualized strategies tailored to your child’s needs at home, school, and beyond.
To learn more or inquire about services, visit https://www.torontochildrenstherapycentre.ca/ or contact us directly to speak with a member of our team. We’re here to help support your child’s journey toward emotional well-being and independence.
References:
1. https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpp.13263
2. https://www.newportacademy.com/resources/mental-health/neurodivergent-teens/
3. https://caot.ca/document/8374/Neurodiversity%20EN.pdf
4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10162488/