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
I am / was in a similar situation...
I have had to endure various physical challenges over the past couple of years and the energy consumed by living with those conditions has taken its toll including exposing my previously unknown possible ASD. Through various stages of my journey, health professionals have suggested a strong possibility of ASD and I am now on the waiting list for assessment.
When the physical symptoms started, I changed as a person and this became apparent with my interactions with colleagues at work. I ruffled a few feathers and I was probably close be to being pulled up by HR. My manager at the time was awful - thankfully there was a restructure which meant I had a new manager who I trusted much more.
I decided to share my situation with my manager and HR, and am so glad that I did as they have all been so supportive. My colleagues are aware of my situation, so don't feel offended or shocked when I go into "one". I have 1 to 1 meetings with my manager every week and openly discuss my situation. BTW, I work in IT and love logical process orientated thinking (typical Autism trait). I love my job, but can get frustrated when colleagues don't see things the same way as I do. In fact, just this week I said to my manager "I can't make John [name changed] think like an autistic person" which we both thought was quite amusing. I find that be open & honest about my situation helps both me and my manager understand my strengths & weaknesses. My manager has a better idea about what makes me tick, how I am wired, etc.
Sorry for the ramble! My suggestion would be to disclose your pending diagnosis with your manager and HR.Yes, I appreciate that I am fortunate to have a supportive & understanding employer - I'm 100% sure that they're not all like that.
Good luck & keep us posted.