Finding Your People: How Social Prescribing Helps Neurodiverse Minds Thrive
- M. Guy
- Apr 2
- 2 min read
At Acorn and Anchor Therapy Centre, we believe that neurodiverse individuals—such as those with ADHD, Autism and Giftedness —thrive best when they receive support that goes beyond traditional therapy. One exciting and emerging approach is social prescribing, which connects people with community resources like art programs, peer support groups, and structured activities to improve well-being.
What is Social Prescribing?
Social prescribing is a way to help people find meaningful activities outside of therapy that can support their emotional, social, and cognitive needs. Many neurodiverse individuals experience challenges like isolation, sensory sensitivities, or difficulty finding like-minded peers. While therapy is valuable, engaging in structured social and creative activities can be just as important for personal growth and emotional well-being.
For example:
A teen with ADHD struggling with organization might benefit from a peer group that offers structure and accountability.
A gifted young adult experiencing social isolation could find connection in an art collective that encourages creativity and intellectual engagement.
A young person feeling social anxiety can benefit from visiting a safe space with no pressure to engage, a place to "just BE" (themselves) with others.
By including these types of community-based supports in care plans, social prescribing helps neurodiverse individuals build skills, connections, and confidence in real-world settings.
How Social Prescribing Helps Neurodiverse Individuals
Research shows that social prescribing offers many benefits, including:
1. Creating Meaningful Peer Connections
Many neurodiverse individuals struggle with forming and maintaining relationships. Peer support groups provide a welcoming space where they can connect with others who share similar experiences.
2. Improving Executive Functioning
For individuals with ADHD, participating in structured activities like volunteer work or workshops can improve planning, time management, and follow-through skills.
3. Supporting Emotional Regulation
Creative activities such as music therapy, drama groups, and mindfulness programs can help neurodiverse individuals manage their emotions more effectively.
4. Encouraging Strength-Based Growth
When individuals focus on their strengths and interests, they build confidence and find joy in activities that align with their unique abilities and passions.
5. Reducing Social Anxiety and Isolation
Structured opportunities allow for social engagement in a predictable and supportive environment, which can be especially helpful for those who struggle with anxiety in unpredictable social situations.
Making Social Prescribing Work
To be effective, social prescribing should be tailored to the unique needs of neurodiverse individuals. Some key considerations include:
Ensuring activities accommodate sensory sensitivities, attention challenges, and different communication styles.
Providing additional support to help individuals navigate new social environments.
Collaborating with organizations to identify the best programs for each person’s needs.
A Holistic Approach to Well-Being
Social prescribing is a powerful tool for helping neurodiverse individuals build resilience, find belonging, and experience personal growth. At Acorn and Anchor, we are dedicated to integrating community engagement into our therapeutic approach, ensuring that neurodiverse children, teens, and adults have access to supportive environments where they can truly thrive.
Written by Kanwar Singh,
Edits by Michelle L Guy,
Acorn & Anchor Therapy Centre, Toronto, Ontario, March 2025
