What Does a Neurodivergent Brain Really Look Like? Let’s Talk Neural Pathways

Have you ever been told that a neurodivergent brain is “wired differently”? Well, here’s a literal look at what that means.

The image above is a powerful visual from diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), a type of MRI scan that maps out white matter tracts—essentially the highways of the brain that carry signals between different regions.

• The left side of the image shows a brain with dense, vibrant, and complex neural connectivity—often interpreted as a neurodivergent brain.

• The right side shows a brain with more streamlined pathways—frequently representing a neurotypical pattern of connectivity.

What Does This Mean?

In neurodivergent individuals (like those with ADHD, autism, or other forms of neurodivergence), the brain isn’t less functional—it’s often more active, processing more sensory input, connecting ideas differently, and navigating the world in nonlinear ways.

This complexity can be both a strength and a challenge. It might look like:

• Processing everything at once (hello, sensory overwhelm)

• Making unique connections between ideas

• Finding traditional environments draining or inaccessible

Why Is This Important?

This image is more than just a pretty picture. It’s a reminder that differences in how we process, feel, and engage with the world are real—and visible. Neurodivergence isn’t something someone can just “get over” or “focus harder” through. It’s built into the very wiring of the brain.

And that wiring? It deserves to be celebrated, supported, and understood.

Use This in Conversations

This image can be a powerful tool when advocating for yourself or others—especially in school, healthcare, or workplace settings where neurodivergent needs are often misunderstood or downplayed.

You can say:

“This is what my brain might look like—more connections, more processing. I’m not being difficult; I’m literally wired to experience the world differently.”

Let’s stop asking neurodivergent people to fit into neurotypical systems, and start building systems that honour every brain.