The Blog
Why So Many Autistic Women Were in Gifted Programs—And What That Means
Many late-diagnosed autistic women look back on their childhoods and recognize that being labeled as gifted was often a way their autism was overlooked. Instead of being identified as neurodivergent, their intelligence and deep interests were praised, while their struggles with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, and executive function were ignored. This pattern reveals systemic failures in autism recognition, highlighting the need for better understanding, support, and accommodations for neurodivergent children who are both gifted and autistic.
Is “Professionalism” Just Another Word for Neurotypical Compliance?
Professionalism is often framed as a neutral standard, but in reality, it enforces neurotypical norms that exclude neurodivergent professionals from fully participating in the workplace. Expectations around eye contact, small talk, rigid schedules, and networking reward those who naturally conform while penalizing those who communicate or work differently, leading to masking, burnout, and limited career advancement. To create a truly inclusive workforce, professionalism must be redefined to prioritize competence, ethical behavior, and flexibility over arbitrary social expectations that reinforce exclusion.
The Problem with “Fit”: How Hiring Bias Excludes Neurodivergent Professionals
Many hiring decisions are based on the subjective idea of "cultural fit," which often excludes neurodivergent professionals who do not conform to traditional workplace social norms. Unspoken biases in hiring processes favor neurotypical communication styles, leading to the rejection of highly skilled autistic and ADHD candidates simply because they do not present in expected ways during interviews. To create truly inclusive workplaces, companies must move beyond the vague notion of fit and instead focus on structured, accessible hiring practices that recognize and value neurodivergent strengths.
How to Manage Executive Dysfunction When You Have Too Much to Do
Executive dysfunction can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming, but breaking tasks into smaller steps, externalizing time management, and reducing decision fatigue can help make them more manageable. Creating a supportive environment, using strategies like body doubling, and implementing immediate rewards can help with task initiation and motivation. Most importantly, managing executive dysfunction is about working with your brain rather than against it, allowing for self-compassion, rest, and sustainable progress.
Understanding the Tragic Reality of Suicide in Autistic Individuals: Call to Action and Resources List
Fish in a Tree's recent exploration of autistic suicide highlights alarming statistics, including the fact that autistic individuals are nine times more likely to attempt suicide, with even higher risks among autistic LGBTQIA+ individuals and those diagnosed late in life. Undiagnosed and unsupported autistic individuals, particularly in gender-diverse communities, face increased mental health challenges due to a lack of understanding and resources. We advocate for timely diagnosis, neuro-affirming mental health services, and inclusive crisis support to address this urgent issue and create a safer, more supportive world for the autistic community.
Why Many Autistic & ADHD People Feel Safer in Online Communities
Online communities provide autistic and ADHD people with a safer, more accessible space for socializing by allowing for flexible communication, sensory autonomy, and interactions based on shared interests rather than neurotypical social norms. These spaces offer the freedom to unmask, engage at one’s own pace, and connect with a global network of like-minded individuals, fostering self-acceptance and genuine relationships. Rather than being an escape, online communities demonstrate what true accessibility and inclusion can look like, proving that when environments are designed with neurodivergent needs in mind, people can fully thrive.
How to Recover from Years of Internalized Ableism as a Neurodivergent Person
Recovering from internalized ableism as a neurodivergent person requires unlearning societal messages that frame neurodivergence as a flaw, embracing one's natural traits without guilt, and recognizing personal strengths beyond neurotypical standards. This process involves setting boundaries, unmasking in safe spaces, reframing self-perception, and seeking validation through neurodivergent community and support. Healing is not linear, but through self-compassion and intentional change, neurodivergent individuals can move toward a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Navigating Neurodivergence in Grad School: A Survival Guide
Graduate school presents unique challenges for neurodivergent students, including difficulties with time management, executive function, social expectations, and sensory regulation. By implementing personalized strategies such as structured scheduling, alternative networking methods, advocating for accommodations, and prioritizing mental health, neurodivergent students can navigate academia in a way that supports both their success and well-being. Thriving in grad school requires working with neurodivergence rather than against it, creating a sustainable academic experience that aligns with individual strengths and needs.
The Economic Cost of Ignoring Neurodivergent People in the Workforce
The exclusion of neurodivergent individuals from the workforce results in significant economic losses, as businesses miss out on their unique talents while governments bear the financial burden of unemployment and underemployment. Traditional workplace structures and hiring processes fail to accommodate neurodivergent workers, leading to high turnover rates, lost innovation, and decreased overall productivity. Creating inclusive work environments through accessible hiring, workplace accommodations, and systemic change would not only support neurodivergent individuals but also drive economic growth and business success.
Why ADHD is Overlooked in Black Women – and What We Can Do About It
ADHD is frequently overlooked in Black women due to racial and gender biases in healthcare and education, as well as cultural expectations that emphasize resilience over seeking support. Many Black women go undiagnosed, often misinterpreting their struggles with executive dysfunction, inattentiveness, and emotional regulation as personal failings rather than symptoms of ADHD. Addressing this issue requires greater awareness, equitable healthcare, culturally competent mental health support, and systemic changes in education to ensure that Black women receive the recognition and resources they need to thrive.
A Guide to Non-Speaking Communication: AAC, Sign Language, and Alternative Expression
Non-speaking individuals communicate through a variety of methods, including Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), sign language, gestures, writing, and creative expression. Access to these tools is often limited due to systemic barriers, but recognizing and respecting diverse communication methods is essential for inclusivity. By advocating for greater accessibility, education, and acceptance, we can ensure that all individuals, regardless of speech ability, have the right to express themselves fully.
Anti-Trans Laws Are Targeting Autistic Youth and Those With Mental Health Conditions
Anti-trans laws targeting gender-affirming care disproportionately harm autistic and neurodivergent youth, who are more likely to be transgender and already face significant barriers to healthcare. These laws falsely assume that autistic individuals are incapable of understanding their gender identity and restrict access to necessary medical care, worsening mental health outcomes. Advocates stress the importance of protecting the rights of trans autistic youth, opposing harmful policies, and ensuring access to affirming, evidence-based healthcare.
ADHD Patients and Doctors Fear Medication Access Under RFK Jr.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s appointment as Secretary of Health and Human Services has raised concerns about potential restrictions on ADHD medication access, which could disproportionately harm those who rely on stimulant prescriptions for daily functioning. Patients, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups fear that stricter regulations, misinformation, and bias against ADHD could exacerbate existing disparities in diagnosis and treatment. Advocacy efforts are mobilizing to protect medication access and push back against policies that threaten the well-being of neurodivergent individuals.
The Importance of Finding a Neurodivergent Community
Finding a neurodivergent community is essential for validation, emotional support, and reducing isolation, as it provides a space where individuals can connect with others who share their experiences. These communities offer practical strategies for managing neurodivergence, advocacy for systemic change, and a safe environment for unmasking and embracing authenticity. Whether online or in person, neurodivergent spaces empower individuals to shift from struggling with neurotypical expectations to recognizing their inherent worth and strengths.