(click the title for full NYT article)
As we continue the dialogue on diversity, equity and inclusion, neurodiversity has to be part of that conversation. Particularly because there is potentially devastating intersectionality for women and people of color. As I read more about how this presents in women, it really piqued my interest.
My son is Autistic and part of what he deals with is attention to things he has little to no interest in. It made me question whether or not I had issues with this and reached out to a professional and began a dialogue about it. One of the things that made me question this is, if I can get into a flow, there aren’t too many people who can out produce me. #ISaidWhatISaid But if something is obstructive I am still above average production but it really throws me off. It surprised me to know this is one way ADHD presents. To be clear, I do not have an ADHD diagnosis but some of the symptoms gave me pause.
The other thing that hit home is I know countless highly intelligent and talented people, who might have been extended more grace in their childhood, and made more of opportunities had they had a proper diagnosis. So, we have to make people aware of the diagnosis disparity this article pinpoints.
I believe it is incumbent upon me to push this discussion and be an advocate. With the intention that, as my son and his peers mature, the climate for neurodiversity evolves. So that institutions and quite frankly individuals become less rigid in their perceptions about intelligence and so that accommodations are put in place to pull out the best in people. Neurosiverse people have so much to offer in the right settings.
Oh and by the way, 20% of the population is neurodivese and I suspect as it becomes less taboo and exotic that number will increase.
To be clear, this is not niche. This suggests there is a large swathe of the population that is severely underserved.
Awareness is important, because when you know better, you have the opportunity to do better.
LET’S DO BETTER!
...as always I’m rooting for you. Xoxo 💋