Back In My Day...

The number of times I have heard particularly infuriating phrases about neurodivergent conditions is beyond count, and I know I am not alone in this. These comments often stem from antiquated beliefs, ideas, and stereotypes about neurodivergent conditions that, thanks to decades of new research, are now far better understood.

I can't be the only one who has heard things like:

• "When I was growing up there wasn't any of this ADHD stuff, it was just naughty children."

• "Back in my day you had to write neatly and do your spellings or you got the cane."

• "You'd never have had all these people pretending they've got something wrong with them."

• "Back in my day anyone who had that was sent away."

• "Everyone nowadays has a label or an excuse, they need to stop pretending and knuckle down."

I have personally heard each of these statements, and even writing them annoys me. But we live in a world where decision-makers and the upper echelons of society are often populated by people who lived through an era when the knowledge simply wasn't there, and stereotypes were polarised extremes. Now, I'm not saying that everyone holds these opinions, but I am saying that these attitudes, comments, and biases are still prevalent and influential.

I will confess to hiding myself and denying my true nature because of those prevalent stereotypes and misconceptions. The fear of being misunderstood or judged harshly often led me to mask my true self. However, it's crucial to challenge these outdated notions and promote a more informed and compassionate understanding of neurodivergent conditions. It's one of the reasons I've totally swung in the other direction now and instead of being all masked, meek and mild-mannered...I'm loud, proud and driven to make change and challenge the "old ways" when it comes to neurodiversity.

The reality is that conditions like ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and others are not mere excuses or labels; they are legitimate neurological differences that require understanding and support. Modern research has shed light on the complexities of these conditions, highlighting the need for tailored approaches in education, workplace environments, and society at large.

So, rather than dismissing neurodivergent individuals as "naughty" or "lazy," we should embrace the diversity of human minds and work towards creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. Moving beyond the simplistic and punitive views of the past is not just necessary—it's long overdue.

And let's be honest, wouldn’t it be nice if we could just accept that not everyone thinks or processes information in the same way? It would certainly save a lot of us from those eye-roll-inducing comments. Let's keep educating ourselves and others, dismantling harmful stereotypes, and building a society that values and supports all its members, regardless of their neurological differences.

After all, the world is a better place when we celebrate our unique quirks and qualities, isn't it?