The Relationship Between Connective Tissue Disorders and Neurodivergent Conditions: Implications Related to Supporting Clients in Therapy

Written by: Ben Mattson

Clinical Intern & MSW graduate prospective ​

​This blog post discusses the correlation between connective tissue/hypermobility disorders and neurodivergent conditions, especially autism. Recent studies have found a similarity in manifestation of these conditions which exists on the genetic level.  Connective tissue/hypermobility disorders can cause a variety of symptoms that have impact on such individuals, including both physical and mental health outcomes. Pain, restrictions, and challenges to quality of life related to physical health disorders can have great impact on an individual’s mental wellbeing, which can be even more difficult to manage if mental health conditions and features of given neurotypes also present life barriers. 
It is important for therapists to be aware of these connections in their work with clients who are neurodiverse, especially if they have comorbid hypermobility, pain, or connective tissue disorders. Mental health professionals should understand the implications for what support these clients may need and would be well-suited to learn more about how these conditions can affect quality of life, both physically and mentally, to provide the most supportive care possible for this population. It could be argued that this is necessary to truly give trauma-informed care that is respectful to all neurotypes.

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