Understanding Neurodivergent Conditions Including Autism: A Guide for Nigerian Mothers

What Does Neurodivergent Mean?

As a mother, you want to understand everything about your child's development and well-being. The word "neurodivergent" simply means that a person's brain works differently from what most people consider typical. Think of it like this: just as our children have different heights, skin tones, and personalities, their brains can also be wired in different ways. This isn't a disease or something that needs to be "fixed" - it's simply a different way of experiencing and interacting with the world.

Neurodivergent conditions include autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia (difficulty with reading), dyspraxia (difficulty with coordination), and dyscalculia (difficulty with math). Among these, autism is one of the most common neurodivergent conditions that affects how children communicate, behave, and interact with others.

Three Fascinating Facts About Neurodivergent Conditions

1. Neurodivergent children have unique strengths alongside their challenges. While your child might struggle in some areas, they often have special talents in others. Some children with autism may have exceptional memory skills or the ability to focus intensely on topics they love. Children with ADHD might be incredibly creative and energetic. These aren't just challenges to overcome - they're different ways of being that can bring wonderful gifts to your family and community.

2. Early support makes a tremendous difference. Research shows that when children receive help early - ideally before age 3 - they can make remarkable progress. This doesn't mean the condition goes away, but children learn strategies to navigate their world more successfully. The earlier you notice signs and seek support, the better equipped your child will be to reach their full potential.

3. Many neurodivergent conditions occur together. It's quite common for children to have more than one neurodivergent condition. For example, about half of children with ADHD also have dyslexia or dyspraxia. Understanding this can help you see the full picture of your child's needs rather than focusing on just one diagnosis.

What Do You Need to Know as a Mother?

Recognize the signs early: Children with autism may show signs before age 3. Look for things like not responding to their name, avoiding eye contact, repeating the same behaviors over and over, having difficulty understanding other people's feelings, or delays in speaking. Some children develop normally and then seem to lose skills around 18-24 months. Trust your instincts - you know your child best.

There is no blood test for autism or most neurodivergent conditions. Doctors diagnose these conditions by carefully watching how your child behaves, plays, learns, and communicates. This is why your observations as a mother are so valuable. Keep track of your child's milestones and share any concerns with healthcare providers. If you feel your child is developing at a different speed to other children please discuss this with a doctor. 

Every child is unique. Two children with autism can be completely different from each other. One might speak in full sentences while another might not speak at all but communicates in other ways. Some children need help with daily tasks while others can manage independently. Your child's needs are individual, and their treatment plan should be too.

Support is available. While Nigeria's healthcare system faces challenges, there are organizations, schools, and support groups for families with neurodivergent children. Don't try to manage alone - connecting with other mothers who understand your journey can be incredibly helpful.

This is not your fault. Autism and other neurodivergent conditions are not caused by anything you did or didn't do during pregnancy or childhood. They are related to differences in how the brain develops, often involving genetic and biological factors that are beyond anyone's control.

Important Facts About Vaccines and Paracetamol

As mothers, you may have heard different stories about what causes autism and other neurodivergent conditions. Let me share what the scientific research actually shows:

Vaccines do NOT cause autism. This is one of the most important facts you need to know. Many studies involving hundreds of thousands of children around the world have looked at this question carefully. The answer is clear: there is no connection between childhood vaccines and autism. This includes the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine and any other vaccines your child receives. The CDC, World Health Organization, and medical experts worldwide agree on this based on decades of research.

You may have heard stories claiming vaccines cause autism, but these claims have been thoroughly investigated and proven false. The original study that started this fear was found to be fraudulent and was removed from medical records. Since then, researchers have studied millions of children and found no link whatsoever.

Vaccinating your child is safe and important. Vaccines protect your children from serious diseases like measles, polio, and whooping cough that can cause disability or death. In Nigeria, where these diseases still pose real threats, vaccination is one of the most important things you can do to keep your child healthy. Please do not skip or delay your child's vaccines due to unfounded fears about autism. You can find more information the risks and benefits of vaccines here: https://koyohealthtechnigeria.com/pages/article/should-i-vaccinate-my-kids

What about paracetamol (Panadol/ Tylenol) during pregnancy? Some recent studies have suggested a possible connection between taking paracetamol frequently during pregnancy and a slightly increased risk of autism or ADHD in children. However, this research is still unclear, and scientists have not proven that paracetamol causes these conditions. The World Health Organization states there is currently no conclusive evidence confirming a link.

If you need pain relief during pregnancy, talk with your doctor or midwife. Don't suffer unnecessarily, but also don't take paracetamol routinely without medical advice. Use the lowest dose that helps, for the shortest time needed. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the benefits and any potential risks for your specific situation.

One Message for All Nigerian Mothers

If I could share one thing with every mother in Nigeria, it would be this: Your neurodivergent child is not broken - they are beautifully different, and they deserve to be understood, supported, and celebrated for who they are.

In our Nigerian culture, we sometimes feel pressure to hide our children's differences or feel shame about conditions we don't fully understand. But your child with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or any other neurodivergent condition has gifts to share with the world. They may think differently, learn differently, and see the world through a unique lens - and that diversity is something valuable.

Don't wait to seek help if you notice something different about your child's development. Early intervention truly changes lives. Whether you're in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja or Kano, or any village across our nation, advocate for your child, connect with other families, and remember that you're not alone on this journey. Your love, patience, and understanding are the most powerful tools your child has for thriving in this world.