The “Performance Over Health” School Culture
You're Invited: 2026 Autistic Mental Health Conference
One of the biggest challenges in schools is that attendance and productivity are often used as measures of wellbeing.
If a young person is present in school, attending lessons and completing work, there can be an assumption that things are going well. But being physically present is not the same as being well enough to learn.
Many neurodivergent young people are attending school while exhausted, overwhelmed, physically unwell or emotionally distressed. Some are masking significant difficulties simply because they know there may be consequences for absence, reduced participation or asking for support.
We often celebrate resilience and perseverance. But sometimes what looks like resilience is actually survival.
A culture of “push through”, “keep going” and “just try your best” can unintentionally teach children that their body’s signals are less important than performance.
Over time this can contribute to chronic stress, burnout, shutdown and deep feelings of shame around having needs at all.
The question we should be asking is not simply, “Are they attending?” The question should be, “What is attendance costing them?”
I’ll be exploring this theme at the upcoming NeuroHub Mental Health Conference this August.
Click here for ticket purchasing
From NeuroHub’s Webpage
The NeuroHub Mental Health Conference is rooted in our core belief that neurodivergent voices should lead the conversation about neurodivergent lives. Shaped by our ethos, the conference centres lived experience, alongside research and education created by neurodivergent individuals themselves—not framed solely through external observation. We move beyond deficit-based, pathology-driven narratives and instead champion the neurodivergent paradigm: one that recognises difference, celebrates creativity, and honours the depth, insight, and potential of those who experience the world in uniquely powerful ways.
Who is the Conference For?
Neurodivergent individuals – Diagnosed and Self Identified and those who are unsure are welcome
Parents and families
Professionals and practitioners
Educators and support workers
Advocates and allies
Tickets
You can check out purchase options and secure your ticket here
Prices start from £50.00
Thank you for being here,
Laura Hellfeld
RN, MSN, PHN, CNL
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Disclaimer: The information shared in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a licensed healthcare provider for personalised support and care tailored to your specific needs.