The neurodivergent movement is sweeping the internet and social media, gaining momentum within communities that would otherwise be labeled disordered. From autism to ADHD, we’re witnessing a strategic revolution of people seeking fresh perspectives for their lived experience.
Existing in a world that rewards socially acceptable behavior - whatever that means - and neurotypical thought patterns isn’t easy for those of us who have been pushed outside of the normal box.
Often used in the context of autism, the word neurodivergence was coined by Australian sociologist Judy Singer to promote the equality and inclusion of neurological minorities.
Neurodiversity by definition speaks to a broad range of experiences including but not limited to: autism, epilepsy, attention deficit, obsessive compulsive, chronic depression and anxiety, and premenstrual dysphoria, or PMDD.
“The term “neurodivergent” describes people whose brain differences affect how their brain works. That means they have different strengths and challenges from people whose brains don’t have those differences. The possible differences include medical disorders, learning disabilities and other conditions. The possible strengths include better memory, being able to mentally picture three-dimensional (3D) objects easily, the ability to solve complex mathematical calculations in their head, and many more.
Neurodivergent isn’t a medical term. Instead, it’s a way to describe people using words other than “normal” and “abnormal.” That’s important because there’s no single definition of “normal” for how the human brain works.”
While it may be difficult to reframe premenstrual dysphoria or PMDD as neurodivergence, women with this condition have distinct differences in how their brains work.
Fortunately, most women do not get catapulted into severe depression and anxiety before their period starts, but for those of us that exist with PMDD, the brain’s abnormal response to ovarian hormones manifests in neurological differences that only occur in an estimated 3-9% of women.
PMDD & Creativity
At the heart of the neurodivergent movement lies a deep desire to explore the fundamental differences in how we show up in the world and a gentle reminder to embrace the gifts and strengths that so often result from neurodivergence.
Finding strengths and creative gifts amidst emotional turmoil can seem like an insurmountable task, but many women with PMDD are forced to do it on a monthly basis.
Perhaps there’s something about being on the brink of emotional death every month that sparks a creative flame deep within us. Self-expression and transmutation of emotional pain is self-guided therapy and integration that so many of us turn to for symptom relief when nothing else seems to work.
PMDD NueroCreative Fundraiser for Psychedelic Research
To honor PMDD neurodivergence and promote creative expression within our community, the PMDD NeuroCreative Fundraiser is designed to showcase the creative genius of women with PMDD while raising the necessary funds for psychedelic research.
From body art to photography to short stories we’re calling all PMDD creatives to help us move the ball forward on research and advocacy.
Fundraiser submissions will be delivered directly to the inboxes of paid subscribers. 100% of subscription proceeds go to the dysphoric project, a non-profit organization devoted to psychedelic research, support and education for premenstrual conditions.
Submission Details
Send PMDD NeuroCreative submissions to info@dysphoricproject.org. Creative expression comes in a variety of mediums to include storytelling, songwriting, poetry, dance, comedy, memes, body art, costumes, yoga poses, painting, sketch, graphic design, architecture and so much more. We’re accepting video, image, and written works in any creative category that moves your soul :)