Neurodivergence and Employment

Feeling Stuck with Work and Accommodations

You know, it's kind of a tough spot to be in when you haven't worked for over 30 years. I mean, life can throw some serious curveballs, right? And then there's the whole issue with my ACC—it's like hitting a brick wall every time I try to get the accommodations I really need. It's frustrating, to say the least. Now, let's talk about the ADA (Americans with

Disabilities Act) for a second. In theory, it sounds great! It’s all about making sure people with physical or mental impairments have equal access to jobs, legal protections, and those necessary workplace accommodations. But, honestly, it often feels like just that—something nice on paper that doesn't always translate to real life. It's like, sure, the law says one thing, but when you actually try to navigate the system, it can feel like you're running into obstacles at every turn. You think you’re making progress, and then bam! You hit another wall. It’s exhausting and can really make you question how accessible things truly are. So, yeah, while the ADA is supposed to help, sometimes it feels like it’s not quite doing its job when it comes to real-world application.

Ableism In The Workplace

Additionally, there's the issue of ableism, especially concerning invisible disabilities such as DCC, ASD, or ADHD. Even if you're fully qualified for the position, they may find a reason not to hire you or to withhold the accommodations you need.

One of the most rewarding jobs I've ever had involved working from home for a customer service company, handling calls using a phone and computer. I was even featured on the front page of a major newspaper's business section. Despite this recognition, I was unable to have my accommodation needs fulfilled and eventually decided to leave the position.

Not everyone with a DCC experiences employment difficulties, and the younger generation among them tends to have greater self-awareness than I did at their age, thanks to supportive families and other interventions.

Receiving disability pay is no laughing matter. Attempting to work could jeopardize my

medical and other benefits. Although Social Security theoretically has a 'plan' for this situation, it doesn't function effectively in practice.

Then there's the aspect of shame. Raised with the WASP (white Anglo-Saxon Protestant) mindset that "any problem you have in life can be solved by getting a job and working hard," along with the notion that "if you don't do this, you're either lazy or a societal misfit," I learned to feel ashamed for not conforming to their expectations.

Regrettably, I have absorbed this negativity and internalized ableism (discrimination, prejudice, or social bias against individuals with physical, intellectual, or psychiatric disabilities), and I must strive daily to overcome this exhausting mindset.

Again, I believe that the younger generation of disabled individuals has it 'easier' than I did, as they have supportive families and other resources that I didn't have.

If I had been born in this decade, I believe I would be better equipped to handle the world and its responsibilities. I'm thankful that the younger generation has this advantage.