Beyond the ICD and textbooks: Lived experience in neurodiversity

📢 EFPSA’S World Mental Health Day Webinar 2026

The event held on the 10th October 2026, explored neurodiversity in universities, the issues surrounding diagnostics, the importance of neurodiversity-affirming care, and the need to listen to those with lived experience.

Together with Autism Europe, EFPSA (European Federation of Psychology Students’​ Associations), EFSA (European Federation of Psychologists’​ Associations AISBL)t with EFPA (European Federation of Psychologists’​ Associations AISBL) and The Psychological Society of Ireland to gather an amazing list of speakers under the topic of “Beyond the ICD and textbooks: Lived experience in neurodiversity.”  

Speakers: Emma Wood (EFPSA), Isabelle Blum (Autism Europe), Dr. Sarah Cassidy (Psychological Society Ireland), Dr Ruth Melia (University of Limerick) Ella Joyce, Kate Lindley, PhD  (ADHD Europe).

• Topic: Lived experience in neurodiversity, university inclusion, diagnostics, and neurodiversity-affirming care. [1]
• Partners: EFPA, EFPSA, and the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI), with contributions from Autism-Europe and ADHD Europe.
• Context: Part of ongoing European psychological advocacy and initiatives like the EU-funded REMESOS project focusing on lived experience.
• Moving Beyond Textbooks: Shifting clinical and academic perspectives away from purely deficit-based medical models toward neurodiversity-affirming frameworks.

Mar 13, 2025
How can education systems better support neurodivergent students? This expert panel discussion explores neurodiversity and neuro-affirmative practices in education, highlighting small but meaningful changes that create inclusive learning environments for all brain types. Featuring: 🧠 Jack Cairns – Advocate for neurodiversity 🧠 Joan McDonald – Expert in inclusive education 🧠 Julie Holmes – Specialist in student support 🧠 Davida Hartman – Psychologist & author Learn about:

• Challenges neurodivergent students face
• Practical changes to make education more inclusive
• Strategies for educators, parents, and students

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” – Maya Angelou