Should I disclose?

Should I tell people that I am neurodivergent?

This is a tough one, and is only recommended if you feel comfortable doing so.

So many of us are afraid to disclose, and not without reason: we fear the workplace and social consequences of talking about our differences.

Of those in the creative industries we surveyed during our research, 69% said that they had disclosed their neurodivergence at work, 31% never had.

Top reasons why our survey respondents chose not to disclose their neurodivergence:

Perceived Pros:

Greater legal protection

Open doors to accommodations

Better relationships with colleagues and employers

Not having to mask who I am

Perceived Cons:

Fear of discrimination

Fear of being pitied or viewed as less capable

Worried about being pigeon-holed, based on stereotypes

Feel like I need to constantly justify my abilities because I am different

Don’t want to be defined by it

But asking or declaring up front that certain recruitment processes don’t best show your capabilities, or that certain working conditions or expectations do not align with your communication or information processing styles, mean that reasonable adjustments can be made.

And if they’re not, it’s a good way to find out that a company is not a right fit for you.

Ultimately, disclosure is a personal decision. There is no obligation to report any diagnoses to your employer.

Consider carefully what this decision means for you, but don't be afraid to be honest about your needs, and to advocate for yourself. And know that you are protected by law and that support is available.

Note:

employers are legally obligated under the Equality Act (2010) to accommodate reasonable adjustments.