Hidden in Plain Sight

This two-hour panel discussion sets out to clarify why this overlap between neurodivergence and substance use often goes unnoticed, what makes young people more vulnerable, and what happens when support systems fail to recognize both needs at once. What we'll explore: • What do we currently know about how common neurodivergence is among young people facing substance use challenges? • What underlying factors increase vulnerability — think impulsivity, executive functioning differences, sensory processing challenges, masking, trauma exposure, social exclusion, and unmet support needs? • What's at stake when this intersection goes unrecognised or untreated — including escalation of substance use, worsening mental health, school exclusion, contact with the justice system, family strain, and long-term disengagement from services?