Diagnosed with unspecified neurodevelopmental disorder? Here’s what it means

Neurodevelopmental disorders affect the brain and nervous system. Some of the most common types include attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and learning disorders like dyslexia and dyscalculia. 

Symptoms and severity vary by condition, but neurodevelopmental disorders are typically associated with impaired learning, communication, and/or movement. In some cases, a person will show signs of a neurodevelopmental condition but won’t meet the full diagnostic criteria for a specific disorder. This is known as unspecified neurodevelopmental disorder (UNDD).

If you or a loved one are showing signs of a neurodevelopmental disorder, here’s what to know about being diagnosed with unspecified neurodevelopmental disorder.

What symptoms qualify as unspecified neurodevelopmental disorder?

To be diagnosed with UNDD, a person must experience neurodevelopmental symptoms that are severe enough to cause significant distress and impairment but don’t meet the full diagnostic criteria for another neurodevelopmental disorder. 

UNDD symptoms often reflect symptoms of other neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, and motor disorders.

These symptoms can affect your:

• Communication, such as being overly talkative or trouble paying attention 
• Social skills, such as the ability to understand sarcasm and social cues
• Emotional regulation, such as experiencing impulsivity and intense emotional reactions
• Cognitive abilities, such as organization and prioritization
• Sensory processing, such as attention and coordination

Is unspecified neurodevelopmental disorder a real condition?

Yes, UNDD is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as a type of neurodevelopmental disorder. The DSM is the text that medical professionals use to diagnose mental health conditions. 

This diagnosis is used when someone has symptoms that cause significant problems but don’t fully meet the criteria for a specific neurodevelopmental disorder. While the criteria for UNDD are less specific than other conditions, it can still have a major impact on daily life.

Providers typically diagnose UNDD when:

1. A person’s symptoms don’t fit a specific diagnosis. For example, a child may show several symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity but doesn’t have enough symptoms as required for an official ADHD diagnosis.
2. They have limited information. Some providers will diagnose UNDD when more information is needed or before referring the person to a specialist for a specific diagnosis.

It’s important to note that unspecified neurodevelopmental disorder isn’t the same as other specified neurodevelopmental disorder. Also listed in the DSM-5, other specified neurodevelopmental disorder is when a person’s symptoms don’t meet the criteria for a neurodevelopmental disorder but providers can specify why. 

For example, a person’s symptoms might be associated with prenatal alcohol exposure. In contrast, UNDD is used when the symptoms don’t fit any specific neurodevelopmental disorder and there’s no clear explanation for why.

Guidance for navigating life with UNDD

Living with a neurodevelopmental disorder can be frustrating — especially when you don’t know how to manage your symptoms. Here’s some advice on how to improve your mental health, understanding of your condition, and overall well-being. 

• Learn about yourself. Having a neurodevelopmental disorder influences the way you interact with the world. Make a point to celebrate your strengths, recognize your struggles, and show yourself greater self-compassion along the way. 
• Focus on self-care. Practicing self-care has been shown to increase happiness, resiliency, and self-confidence. Find something that feels right for you, like listening to music, spending time with animals, or gardening.
• Journal for your mental health. Emotional regulation is sometimes challenging for people with neurodevelopmental disorders. Keeping a journal can be a useful tool for expressing your feelings, identifying harmful thought patterns and behaviors, and solving problems.
• Build your support system. If you’re experiencing neurodevelopmental symptoms, you’re not alone. Approximately 5% to 20% of the general population has a neurodevelopmental disorder. Connecting with people who understand your experiences can help you feel valued and supported.

Empathetic treatment for unspecified neurodevelopmental disorder

Neurodevelopmental disorders are lifelong conditions that start during childhood but can be diagnosed at any age. If you or someone you know is showing signs of a neurodevelopmental disorder, it’s best to meet with a healthcare professional as soon as possible. This typically means meeting with a primary care doctor or therapist for adults and a pediatrician for children.

Once you have an accurate diagnosis, your provider will create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your mental, emotional, and physical needs. This may include talk therapy, medication, occupational support, and other resources, depending on your specific symptoms.

Although there’s no cure for neurodevelopmental disorders, the right support allows people to improve their daily functioning. If you notice a change in your symptoms or well-being, it’s important to consult your provider right away. Some people with UNDD may eventually be diagnosed with a specific condition, like autism or ADHD, that requires a different approach to care.

It’s also worth noting that having a developmental disorder increases your risk of other developmental disorders and mental health conditions. For example, autism frequently co-occurs with ADHD, learning disorders, and mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Find care with Rula

Neurodevelopmental disorders are lifelong conditions that can affect all aspects of life, including your relationships, career, and daily functioning. And while UNDD symptoms may not meet the criteria for conditions like ADHD or autism, they can still take a toll on your mental and physical well-being. However, treatment options are available, and with the right support, you can manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

At Rula, we know that life can feel overwhelming without access to effective resources and support. Our therapist-matching program makes it easier to find a mental health provider who understands neurodevelopmental disorders, takes your insurance, and is accepting new clients. With Rula, you can get access to personalized, collaborative care as soon as tomorrow.

Get started with Rula today