Neurodivergent Universe: +info

¿How many are the neurodivergent diagnosed worldwide according to the UN?

UNIVERSE AND UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Neurodiversity encompasses a broad spectrum of cognitive conditions and differences that affect the way people think, learn, and behave. The universe of people diagnosed as neurodivergent includes those who have been identified with disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Asperger's, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia, and other related conditions. These people experience the world in unique ways and face specific challenges in their daily lives. It is essential to recognize that, although the statistics are based on diagnoses, it is estimated that this market is on the rise due to the fact that today there are many neurodivergent people who have not yet been diagnosed due to barriers such as lack of access to mental health services, the lack of awareness about neurodiversity or social stigmatization. Currently, the world population reached 8,000 million people, according to statistics presented by the UN in November 2022, a milestone in the development of humanity. In just twelve years the world population went from 7,000 to 8,000 million inhabitants. Within this framework, it is estimated that people diagnosed* are around 1% of the world population with ASD (and Asperger), that ADHD affects approximately 5-7% of children and 2-5% of adults and that dyslexia is estimated to affect around 5-10% of the world population, among others. One important piece of data is the global unemployment and underemployment rate for people with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, which can vary by region, country, and data source. However, it is widely recognized that these people face rates of unemployment and underemployment that are higher than those of the general population. Today 85% of people with autism fail to enter the workplace. According to a 2020 report from "Autism Research," about 60% of working-age adults with autism were unemployed in the United States. Rates can vary, but in general, people with autism face significantly higher unemployment rates than the general population.

(F: Roux, A.M., Shattuck, P.T., Rast, J.E., Rava, J.A., & Anderson, K.A. (2020). National Autism Indicators Report: Transition into Young Adulthood. Philadelphia, PA: Life Course Outcomes Research Program, A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University.)

Regarding ADHD, a 2018 study described the unemployment rate for adults with ADHD in the United States as 13.6%, compared to 6.3% for those without ADHD.

(F: Asherson, P., Buitelaar, J., Faraone, S. V., & Rohde, L. A. (2018). Adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: key conceptual issues. The Lancet Psychiatry, 3(6), 568–578.)

At Be Xtraordinary we are convinced that the creation of communication tools and technologies adapted for neurodivergent people is of the utmost importance and represents an invaluable opportunity to improve their executive skills and promote greater labor inclusion. By developing specific and personalized technological solutions, we can help people to overcome communication and cognitive barriers, facilitating their access to employment opportunities and allowing their full personal and professional development. In addition, these innovations can boost awareness and understanding of neurodiversity in the workplace, fostering an inclusive and respectful environment. With the implementation of these tools, not only neurodivergent people are empowered, but also a more inclusive and diverse society is promoted, in which each individual can contribute their unique talents and abilities in the social and work environment.