Neurodiversity: Stop Apologizing. There's nothing wrong with you.

"I'm sorry, he's autistic."

"I'm sorry, she has problems."

"I'm sorry, I'm messed up."

Stop it.

Millions of people berate themselves daily for their "mental blemishes."

"Gay. Autistic. Depressed. Messed up. Stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid!"

You probably do it too.

Well, don't you think you're special?

There are possibly a thousand types of intelligence--and you aren't any? Wow, that's actually pretty remarkable in itself.

According to the theory of Neurodiversity, mental "illnesses" such as Autism, Depression, and Anxiety are not abnormal, but rather simply different variations of the human phenotype. Research suggests that all of these "illnesses" have survived along with the human race; moreover, as they are hereditary, they have served a role in society before organized society was even a thought.

How could this be possible?

Multiple intelligences. The theory was first proposed in 1983 by Howard Gardner and explained that IQ is not a valid measure of intelligence as there are varied forms of intelligence (shown most often under the nine described below). However, its ideas have also endured the human condition. Everyone exhibits distinct strength in certain areas. This theory simply serves to further discredit the stigmatization of the "mentally-ill" or "mentally-disabled." Moreover, it proves that Sesame Street had the right idea. Everyone is special. Why? Because everyone with a pulse has strength somewhere.

If you would like to calculate a rough estimate that will project your intellectual strengths, click here.

http://www.npr.org/2014/11/15/364289639/shriver-finds-wisdom-among-the-intellectually-disabled