It’s estimated that one in seven people (more than 15% of people in the UK) are neurodivergent. Neurodivergence includes a range of conditions, including attention deficit disorders, autism, dyslexia and dyspraxia. For those who are neurodivergent, navigating a world primarily designed for neurotypical people can present unique challenges, increasing the risk of stress, anxiety or depression.
Research shows that neurodivergent people experience higher rates of mental health issues than the general population. For example, up to half of autistic people also experience depression at some point in their lives (National Autistic Society) and up to half of those with ADHD experience one or more anxiety disorders. In 2022 consultant anaesthetist and autism researcher, Dr Mary Doherty, found there were increased rates of mortality for all illnesses suffered by autistic patients compared to neurotypical patients and 32% of autistic adults did not seek help for potentially serious symptoms. This shows the specific challenges faced by people with neurodiversity in accessing appropriate healthcare. Â
As we celebrate World Mental Health Day on 10 October, the CardMedic team wanted to highlight the role of awareness, education and advocacy in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for neurodivergent people within healthcare settings. Â
Neurodivergent people often face significant barriers accessing healthcare. Healthwatch’s research on the Accessible Information Standard found that people who need information in a format they can understand struggle at every stage of their healthcare journey. Traditional approaches often fail to provide adequate support and accessible information. Challenges include difficulties scheduling appointments (particularly phone-only appointments), overwhelming sensory environments in waiting areas, inconsistent care, and a lack of reassurance from healthcare professionals. These issues, compounded by unsuitable appointment formats and unpredictable scheduling, contribute to considerable anxiety for neurodivergent patients.
That’s why CardMedic has partnered with SafeCardAlert, a company dedicated to revolutionising medical alert systems for autistic and neurodivergent people. Their cutting-edge approach combines NFC cards and a user-friendly platform, empowering both neurodivergent people and caregivers to upload crucial information that could prove invaluable in emergencies. Our aim is to provide healthcare communication that is most suited to people who are neurodivergent and address the mental health needs of these individuals.Â
SafeCardAlert is looking to better integrate support and raise the level of experience from caregivers when autistic people come into contact with emergency services to prevent trauma and create understanding and awareness. First responders will have instant access to vital details like sensory triggers, allergies, medications, behavioural plans, communication preferences, educational and healthcare plans and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) information. While primarily designed for autistic and neurodivergent people, SafeCardAlert’s platform can benefit anyone with specific medical needs or conditions.
At CardMedic, we offer a range of scripts covering various mental health topics, all written in plain English to ensure clarity and conciseness, which is particularly crucial during overwhelming, stressful situations with sensory overload. Our platform provides the option to switch to an easy-read format, as well as the ability to customize the colour combinations of text and background, such as black text on a yellow background, catering to individual preferences and accessibility needs. We also have links to picture communication boards too. We’ve worked with national charities including include.org to get feedback from patients and their carers about the app to help with neurodiversity content including the font, colour combinations, content and layout.
There is clearly a need for tailored mental health support, especially when neurodivergent individuals are in crisis and can’t communicate with medical staff or the police. Neurodivergent people experience health inequalities, meaning that they often don’t get the support and help they need when they need it, so it is important that we prioritise mental health for them. What we need to do is create inclusive and supportive healthcare environments for them so that they feel safe. Our aim is that we can play a part in this here at CardMedic.
