May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the challenges and strides in understanding mental health issues. It’s also a great excuse to talk about something that should be on our minds year-round, especially when it comes to the well-being of neurodivergent individuals. And no, by “neurodivergent,” we don’t mean people who insist pineapple belongs on pizza—that’s a different kind of debate.

The Hidden Struggle: Neurodivergence and Bullying

Neurodivergent folks often experience the world in unique ways—like having HD-quality attention to some details and old-radio static to others. This can include how they process information, manage emotions, or decode the mysterious social cues that somehow never come with a manual. Unfortunately, these differences can make them prime targets for bullies. Imagine having to deal with a bully when you’re already trying to figure out if LOL means “laugh out loud” or “lots of love.” Research indicates that children who are neurodivergent are three times more likely to be on the receiving end of bullying compared to their neurotypical peers. And no, getting triple the attention isn’t a good thing in this case.

The Role of Awareness and Support

Awareness is the superhero we need to battle the villain of ignorance. By educating ourselves and others, we can help cloak our neurodivergent friends in invisibility shields against bullies (metaphorically speaking, though a real one would be cool, too). Schools, workplaces, and communities need robust anti-bullying policies—because “just ignore it” is about as effective as using a chocolate teapot. Support can also come from therapy, counseling, and community groups. Think of them as the tech support for mental health—helping troubleshoot when things get glitchy and even providing upgrades to better handle future issues.

Moving Forward: Empowerment Through Understanding

 Empowerment isn’t just a fancy buzzword; it’s about making everyone feel like they belong—whether they read social cues like a pro or find them as baffling as a Rubik’s cube. This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s turn up the volume on our empathy speakers and advocate for policies and practices that celebrate the rich tapestry of human minds. Together, we can ensure no one is bullied just for being different, turning those unique traits into superpowers rather than reasons for ridicule. So, here’s to understanding, empowering, and maybe even having a few laughs along the way because life’s too short not to giggle at the absurdities.