Disordered or differently ordered?

Written by: Khooshi Jajoo

Edited by: Aishwarya Sabnis

Advika had won again. Over and over, she kept winning every contest. The first round of arranging five objects in the same order as shown? She completed it in barely five seconds. The second round of remembering a phrase until the next day? She was the only one who could recite it word for word. The third round, which involved detecting slight changes in food? It required only a sniff for her to identify the difference. And in the final round of fistfighting? She anticipated every move of her opponent and reacted just as quickly.

Since childhood, Advika had been special. In her world, everything had order. Every day followed the same sequence, and she completed her tasks according to a fixed routine without effort. Waking up, eating, studying, and sleeping - everything was consistent. These patterns were natural for her, yet extraordinary to those around her. Family, friends, and teachers often remarked on her talent, recognizing it as something remarkable, almost magical.

Memory was another area in which Advika excelled. She only needed to read something once to remember it perfectly and could repeat it flawlessly whenever needed. Her senses were incredibly sharp; any change in sound, smell, taste, sight, or touch was immediately noticed, and she reacted with remarkable speed and accuracy. These skills made her appear almost untouchable in competitions or challenges, allowing her to excel where others struggled. It is no wonder she consistently came out on top. 

These traits that she possessed seem almost magical. However, she is just someone who is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum. (Note: having some of these traits does not necessarily mean someone has Autism Spectrum Disorder; diagnosis should always be made by a qualified mental health professional.) Traits such as heightened memory, strict adherence to routines, acute sensory perception, and intense focus are part of the neurodiversity spectrum. They represent the diversity of human cognition and perception, yet they are often misunderstood, stigmatized, or dismissed by society.

This raises a critical question: why do we discriminate when something is labeled a “disorder”? Why do conversations about mental health so often lead to alienation, fear, or discomfort? Human beings tend to fear what they do not understand. Differences in thought, behavior, or perception can provoke reactions of judgment, ridicule, or avoidance. Yet, if these same differences are approached with curiosity, empathy, and care, they can be recognized as unique strengths rather than deficits.

Just as physical illnesses require understanding, treatment, and support, so do mental health differences. Creating safe spaces where individuals can express themselves freely is essential. Encouraging open conversation, offering support, and fostering acceptance can allow people to thrive without fear of judgment. For someone like Advika, whose abilities are exceptional and whose neurological wiring may be different, this kind of environment can be transformative, enabling her to reach her full potential.

The importance of support extends beyond professional treatment or therapy. Family, friends, and communities play a vital role in helping individuals manage challenges and develop their strengths. Just as someone with a physical ailment requires care and understanding, those with mental health differences need encouragement, patience, and recognition. Without this support, individuals may experience isolation, anxiety, or diminished confidence, regardless of their talents.

Furthermore, acknowledging neurodiversity and mental health differences is not only a matter of compassion but also of social responsibility. When society stigmatizes mental differences, it creates barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help, pursuing opportunities, or simply being accepted as they are. This stigma can worsen outcomes, causing emotional distress and limiting the contributions of individuals whose abilities may otherwise benefit society.

It is high time we stop viewing mental health differences as something to fear, hide, or ignore. They are a natural part of human diversity, deserving of understanding, discussion, and care. Recognizing the strengths and unique perspectives that come with these differences allows individuals like Advika to be celebrated for their talents while receiving the support they need to flourish. By shifting our approach, from judgment to empathy, from fear to curiosity, we can build a society that embraces all forms of human variation, where neurodiverse individuals can thrive and contribute meaningfully without stigma or shame.

In conclusion, Advika’s story illustrates both the extraordinary potential of human cognition and the need for societal change. Her memory, sensory perception, focus, and adherence to routine are not weaknesses; they are facets of her individuality. Instead of isolating or alienating people with mental differences, society should provide safe spaces, encouragement, and understanding. By doing so, we not only help individuals reach their full potential but also enrich our communities with the talents, perspectives, and diversity that make humanity truly remarkable. Mental health differences are not problems to be hidden, they are aspects of human life to be acknowledged, supported, and celebrated.