Published on 12, July, 2020
Hello everyone I’m looking for a bit of advice or moral support. I’m going into my 2nd year of my course/employment, but haven’t told any colleagues or employers that I’m currently waiting for assessments for an autism and ADHD diagnosis. Without the official diagnosis, I feel very anxious about talking to people about (very likely!) being autistic/having adhd. I think it feels more overwhelming because I almost have to explain myself and give my life story, rather than just disclosing a diagnosis. However, the nature of my course/job means we will now have teaching and placements in the area of neurodevelopmental conditions, and really want to be able to speak from a personal perspective. It’s my special interest area too, so I’m really passionate about speaking up during discussions! I’ve also struggled a lot through 1st year and would really like to be able to assert my needs better with supervisors. I’m wondering what are others experiences of disclosing their neurodivergence with work, particularly those self-diagnosed/waiting for an official diagnosis? And any advice on how I go about broaching the subject with peers and/or supervisors? TIA
Hi there. Tricky one indeed…
I too have wondered if I should come out with it to my boss. I’m on the waiting list too but few it’s pretty obvious to those that have the radar for it. I do agree that you need to protect yourself from the mean people at work as let’s face it, people can be mean ! You also need the law on your side.
Having said that, it’s almost sound like you’re in an environment that meets people with ASD and other mental health issues and are learning about them and possibly teaching in some way (?). So it could be that you will be in a comfortable place and accepted for speaking up. As well as getting the additional support you need from your tutors and peers.
Have a think and possible get som professional advice first. Try ACAS, they’ll be great for it.