RT documentary for Science Week explores the realities of neurodivergence through lived experience and groundbreaking research

Thursday 12 November, 10.15pm, RT One and RT Player

Neurodivergence - The Making of Me, a brand-new documentary broadcast as part of RT 's Science Week output, explores Autism and ADHD in Ireland through lived experience and scientific research. Airing on Thursday, 12 November at 10.15pm on RT One and RT Player, the programme challenges misconceptions surrounding neurodivergence while promoting greater understanding and acceptance. It highlights the importance of knowing how to navigate the world, the need for a more inclusive society and recognises the value in being neurodivergent.

It is estimated that up to 20% of the Irish population is neurodivergent*. While awareness and understanding of neurodivergence has increased significantly in recent years, many continue to face barriers to identification, support and acceptance.

The documentary is presented and directed by Hannah Daly, a neurodivergent occupational therapist, author, disability advocate and mother of four neurodivergent children. Hannah was identified as dyslexic and dyspraxic as a child and was late identified as Autistic and with ADHD at the age of 37. She is one of many thousands of people who have been identified later in life. Many more remain unidentified.

Neurodivergence - The Making of Me follows four individuals whose experiences illustrate the breadth of neurodivergent lives:

Saraid, a 19-year-old from Kilkenny, who experienced significant difficulties throughout her school years before being identified as Autistic at the age of 16.

Mike, from Cork, who was diagnosed with ADHD at 41 and describes the relief of finally understanding the challenges he had previously faced throughout his life.

Daniel, a 10-year-old from Dublin who is Autistic and has additional learning differences. His story is told through the perspective of his devoted mother, Tracey.

Nuala, a successful writer from Galway who was identified as Autistic in her early fifties, providing a new understanding of many of her life experiences.

Speaking about the documentary, Hannah Daly said:

We need to stop having harmful debates that dismiss people's experiences. Instead, we must look at the real impact of someone going through life without understanding their own brain. As an occupational therapist, I support people and their families who continuously struggle with everyday barriers. Finding out you are neurodivergent isn't about looking for a trendy label. It is about understanding, getting the right support and developing self-compassion. Our focus needs to shift to building a world based on kindness, instead of fear.

The documentary also features contemporary research conducted by leading scientists in Ireland and internationally, including projects at Trinity College Dublin's Institute of Neuroscience, King's College London's ADHD Lab, and the INFANT Centre at University College Cork.

Neurodivergence - The Making of Me airs on Thursday, 12 November 2026 at 10.15pm on RT One and RT Player.

It is made with the support of Research Ireland/Taighde ireann.

ENDS

Caoilinn Putti, RT Communications Lead

LINK:	https://about.rte.ie/2026/11/10/rte-documentary-for-science-week-explo...
	See more stories from rte

Most recent headlines