At Evolution Wellness, we work with so many women who tell us, “I’ve always felt a little different, a little too much, or a little too anxious.” If that sounds familiar, let’s dig into the often overlooked relationship between anxiety and neurodivergence—and what you can actually do about it.
If you’re a woman in your 30s trying to juggle work, relationships, the group chat, your Google Calendar, and the ever-growing mental load… hi, we see you. And if you’ve ever wondered why your anxiety feels like it’s running the show despite your best efforts to meditate, hydrate, and check things off your to-do list—you might want to take a closer look at neurodivergence.
What Does “Neurodivergent” Mean Anyway?
Neurodivergence is a non-medical umbrella term that simply means your brain works differently than what’s considered “typical.” This can include ADHD, autism, sensory processing differences, learning disabilities, and more. It’s not a flaw—it’s a variation. And guess what? Neurodivergent women are often creative, passionate, deep thinkers… but they also tend to experience a lot of anxiety.
Why? Because navigating a world not built for your brain can be exhausting. From trying to follow unspoken social rules to masking your overwhelm during yet another team meeting, it’s no wonder your nervous system is constantly on edge.
👉 Want to learn more about how we support neurodivergent clients? Check out our neurodivergence services here.
The Double Whammy: Anxiety + Neurodivergence
Let’s be real: modern life is already anxiety-inducing. Now add in sensory sensitivities, difficulty with transitions, executive dysfunction, or a lifetime of internalized “shoulds”—and you’ve got a recipe for chronic stress.
Common signs of this overlap might include:
- Overthinking to the point of paralysis
- Meltdowns or shutdowns after a full day of “holding it together”
- Anxiety about forgetting things, being late, or missing social cues
- Perfectionism that’s more about survival than pride
- Physical symptoms like headaches, gut issues, or fatigue
Sound familiar? You’re not alone. And there’s nothing wrong with you. You’re simply dealing with a brain that processes the world in high-definition—and it needs care, not criticism.
So What Can You Actually Do?
If you’re tired of being told to “just relax” or “try yoga,” here are a few practical, neurodivergent-friendly ways to manage anxiety:
- Start with Self-Awareness (Not Self-Blame)
Understanding your neurodivergence is key. That might mean getting an official diagnosis—or it might just mean recognizing that your brain isn’t broken, it’s different. Either way, knowledge is power. - Rework Your Routines
Traditional productivity hacks often backfire for neurodivergent brains. Try using visual reminders, body-doubling, or interest-based planning instead. Give yourself permission to do things your way. - Lower the Mask
If masking your anxiety is making it worse, therapy can be a safe space to explore dropping the performance. At Evolution Wellness, we specialize in helping women unlearn the pressure to “pass” and start embracing their true selves. - Prioritize Nervous System Care
Think of your nervous system like a battery. Sensory-friendly downtime, quiet moments, and scheduled rest (yes, on your calendar) are essential—not indulgent. - Get Support That Gets You
A therapist who understands both anxiety and neurodivergence can make a huge difference. You deserve support that sees the full picture of who you are—not just your symptoms.
Final Thoughts
If you’re living with both anxiety and neurodivergence, you’re not failing—you’re adapting. And you don’t have to keep doing it alone. Therapy can help you reconnect with your strengths, ease the overwhelm, and finally start feeling more at home in your own brain.
At Evolution Wellness in Wilmington, NC, we’re here to support you. Whether you’re exploring a possible diagnosis or simply want to feel less anxious and more understood, we’d love to help.