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Why Many Autistic & ADHD People Feel Safer in Online Communities
AuDHD, Autism, Neurodiversity, ADHD, Diagnosis, Self-Identification, Sensory Sensitivities, Sensory Tools, Higher Education, Family, Work, Home, Community, Politics, Communication, Ableism Bridgette Hamstead AuDHD, Autism, Neurodiversity, ADHD, Diagnosis, Self-Identification, Sensory Sensitivities, Sensory Tools, Higher Education, Family, Work, Home, Community, Politics, Communication, Ableism Bridgette Hamstead

Why Many Autistic & ADHD People Feel Safer in Online Communities

Online communities provide autistic and ADHD people with a safer, more accessible space for socializing by allowing for flexible communication, sensory autonomy, and interactions based on shared interests rather than neurotypical social norms. These spaces offer the freedom to unmask, engage at one’s own pace, and connect with a global network of like-minded individuals, fostering self-acceptance and genuine relationships. Rather than being an escape, online communities demonstrate what true accessibility and inclusion can look like, proving that when environments are designed with neurodivergent needs in mind, people can fully thrive.

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How to Recover from Years of Internalized Ableism as a Neurodivergent Person
AuDHD, Autism, Neurodiversity, ADHD, Diagnosis, Self-Identification, Sensory Sensitivities, Sensory Tools, Higher Education, Family, Work, Home, Community, Politics, Communication, Ableism Bridgette Hamstead AuDHD, Autism, Neurodiversity, ADHD, Diagnosis, Self-Identification, Sensory Sensitivities, Sensory Tools, Higher Education, Family, Work, Home, Community, Politics, Communication, Ableism Bridgette Hamstead

How to Recover from Years of Internalized Ableism as a Neurodivergent Person

Recovering from internalized ableism as a neurodivergent person requires unlearning societal messages that frame neurodivergence as a flaw, embracing one's natural traits without guilt, and recognizing personal strengths beyond neurotypical standards. This process involves setting boundaries, unmasking in safe spaces, reframing self-perception, and seeking validation through neurodivergent community and support. Healing is not linear, but through self-compassion and intentional change, neurodivergent individuals can move toward a more authentic and fulfilling life.

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