Tips for Disability and Neurodiversity Support
We are an inclusive organization that embraces and celebrates neurodiversity. We firmly believe that neurological differences such as autism, ADHD, and other cognitive variances are not disabilities but unique perspectives that enrich our society. Our mission is to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals with diverse neurological profiles can thrive. We provide tailored accommodations, flexible work arrangements, and promote open-mindedness among our team members. We value the unique strengths and talents that neurodiverse individuals bring to the table, fostering creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. By championing neurodiversity, we aim to build a more inclusive and accepting world that values the diverse ways in which individuals experience and contribute to it.
EMBRACING NEURODIVERGENCE
• Take an individualistic approach. Learn their strengths and challenges and provide support where needed, rather than it being an individual's responsibility to fit in with a certain set standard or norm.
• Take an individualistic approach. Learn their strengths and challenges and provide support where needed, rather than it being an individual's responsibility to fit in with a certain set standard or norm.
• Acknowledge the person, or what a person has, not what that person is. So “autistic person,” but not “person with autism”; not “she’s schizophrenic,” but “she has schizophrenia.” However, recognize that there is considerable dissension here, reinforcing the importance of establishing and honoring personal preference. When at all possible, ask the person what words and terminology they prefer to use for themselves.
• Watch how you refer to people without disabilities or who are neurotypical. Those kids are not “normal kids,” which would imply disabled or neurodiverse kids are not normal.
• Use language that emphasizes abilities and not limitations. For example, “she uses a wheelchair” in place of “she’s wheelchair-bound.”
• Stay away from the disability-as-tragedy or disability-as-inspiration trope.
• Celebrate accomplishments without infantilizing. Honor everyone’s lives as full human beings; disabled people are not more ‘heroic’ or ‘tragic’ simply by living as they are.
• Though it’s understood by many that “retard(ed)” is unacceptable in any context, be aware that there are other words that some individuals with disabilities or mental illness, and/or those who are close to them, are hurt by regardless of the context in which they are used. Among these words: crazy, hysterical, crippled, lame, loony, nuts, psycho, and using diagnoses as casual descriptors (OCD, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, bipolar, etc). Just as referring to something negative as ‘gay’ is unacceptable, referring to something you find confusing or incorrect as ‘crazy’ is equally offensive. Be specific as to what you mean and find alternative words.
• Avoid euphemisms like ‘special needs,’ ‘differently abled’, or ‘handicapable’.
TRIGGERING LANGUAGE
When interacting with neurodivergent individuals, it's important to be aware of certain phrases or topics that might be triggering for them. However, it's important to note that triggers can vary greatly from person to person, as neurodivergent individuals have diverse experiences and sensitivities. Here are some phrases or topics that may be triggering for some neurodivergent individuals:
"Just try harder" or "Why can't you be normal?": These statements can be dismissive of their experiences and invalidate their challenges.
"You don't look autistic/ADHD/etc.": Neurodivergent individuals often face misconceptions about how they should appear or behave, and this phrase can undermine their identity and struggles.
"Everyone has a little bit of [condition]": Comparing someone's neurodivergent condition to common quirks or traits minimizes their unique challenges and experiences.
"You're overreacting" or "You're being too sensitive": Such phrases can invalidate their emotional experiences and make them feel dismissed or misunderstood.
"You must be high-functioning/low-functioning": Functioning labels can be divisive and oversimplify the complex nature of neurodivergent conditions. It's better to focus on understanding an individual's specific strengths and challenges.
"Just calm down" or "Relax": For some neurodivergent individuals, regulating their emotions can be challenging, and being told to calm down may intensify their distress.
Personal questions about their diagnosis or treatment: Respect their privacy and avoid prying into their personal medical history or treatment choices unless they choose to share.
