Neurodivergent Joy: The Intense Excitement That Lights Up Lives 🔦

When we talk about neurodivergence, we often focus on challenges. But there’s another side that deserves celebration: the intense joy and excitement many neurodivergent people experience.

This isn’t just happiness - it’s a deep, powerful feeling that can turn an ordinary moment into something extraordinary.

What Does Neurodivergent Joy Look Like?

For autistic people, ADHDers, and others with neurodivergent minds, joy can feel amplified. It’s not just “I like this” - it’s “I LOVE this with every fibre of my being.”

Here’s what it might look like:

• Big reactions: Laughing loudly, jumping up and down, clapping hands, or happy stimming like flapping, spinning, or rocking.

• Sparkling eyes and fast speech: Talking quickly, sharing every detail because excitement overflows.

• Immersion: Losing track of time because the activity or topic feels incredible.

• Physical energy: Pacing, dancing, or moving because the feeling is too big to stay still.

  
  

This joy often comes from things that matter deeply - special interests, sensory experiences, creative projects, or moments of connection.

Why Is This Joy Important?

Intense joy is more than a feeling. It’s:

• A source of energy and motivation

• A way to connect with others who share passions

• A reminder that neurodivergent lives are full of colour and meaning

When we celebrate this joy, we challenge stereotypes that focus only on struggle.

How Can We Support and Celebrate Neurodivergent Joy?

• Don’t dampen it: Excitement isn’t “too much” - it’s authentic.

• Allow authentic expression: Joy looks different for everyone. Whether it’s flapping hands, jumping, talking fast, or dancing - these are valid ways to feel and show happiness.

• Join in: Ask questions, share enthusiasm, and let the person lead.

• Create safe spaces: Where big feelings are welcomed, not judged.

• Celebrate passions: Encourage hobbies and interests without shame.

• Share stories: Positive experiences inspire others and build community.

When Joy Feels Overwhelming

For some, this excitement can feel too big. It might lead to:

• Sensory overload: The body feels flooded with energy and sensations.

• Difficulty calming down: Transitioning to another task can be hard.

• Emotional crash: After the high, exhaustion or frustration may follow.

  
  

This doesn’t mean joy is bad - it means it’s powerful. Supporting someone through these moments can help them enjoy the experience without feeling drained.

What To Do When Joy Becomes Too Much

If intense joy starts to feel overwhelming, here are some helpful strategies:

• Pause and Breathe

Take a few slow breaths or use grounding techniques like counting objects in the room. This helps bring the nervous system back to balance.

• Create a Calm Space

Move to a quieter environment or dim the lights. Reducing sensory input can ease the intensity.

• Use Comfort Tools

Weighted blankets, fidget toys, or soothing sounds can help regulate big feelings.

Plan Recovery Time

After a joyful high, schedule downtime—like reading, listening to calming music, or resting in a safe space.

• Validate the Feeling

Remind yourself (or the person) that this joy is okay and part of who they are. Overwhelm doesn’t mean failure—it means the feeling was strong.

Share Your Joy

What sparks your intense excitement? A favourite song? A new idea? A sensory delight? Tell us your story and help others see the beauty of neurodivergent joy.