Spectrum Snapshot is where we gather the neurodiversity news and stories that didn’t get the full article treatment this week. Maybe it’s a new study or just a conversation that stood out. Each edition brings together highlights, interesting developments, and moments from all corners of the neurodiverse community. Even when we can’t dive deep, these stories are still worth sharing. We want you to stay connected with what’s happening in neurodiversity and to celebrate the many ways unique minds are making a difference.
This week’s roundup features a range of insightful and powerful stories from across the neurodiverse community. From a personal recount of navigating medical care while autistic to an exploration of ADHD’s entrepreneurial spirit, these pieces shed light on new research, personal reflections, and practical advice. You’ll also find discussions on inclusion in retail spaces, debunking myths around autism and dating, and important strategies for workplace accommodations that women with ADHD need. Here are some highlights that caught our attention:
- There’s nothing wrong with you (Autistic Self Advocacy Network)
Jada Thompson writes about growing up autistic, facing ableism, and redefining what it means to belong. The piece is a heartfelt call to embrace joy as resistance, affirm autistic and intellectually disabled experiences, and reject the need to mask or shrink oneself for acceptance. - Why adults with ADHD are 3x more likely to start a business (Fast Company)
This feature examines why adults with ADHD have such a strong entrepreneurial drive. Instead of seeing ADHD as a deficit, it frames traits like impulsivity and creativity as unique assets for innovation and business creation. - Getting a Colonoscopy While Autistic! (Thinking Person’s Guide to Autism)
An honest, detailed personal account explores the challenges of colonoscopy prep and procedure for autistic people, with helpful advice on managing sensory sensitivities and medical anxiety. The story empowers readers to prioritize their health while honoring neurodivergent needs. - Are You Autistic? Do You Think You Want a Pet? (Thinking Person’s Guide to Autism)
This guide discusses the benefits and challenges of pet ownership for autistic folks. It covers how caring for a pet can foster routine, emotional growth, and social opportunities as well as what to consider before bringing a new animal into your life. - Neurophysiologic distinction between autism and schizophrenia (The Transmitter)
A research roundup highlights new findings that help distinguish autism from schizophrenia at the brain level using markers of neurotransmission. The article also notes cutting-edge autism studies across neuroscience and genetics. - Are your Physical Stores Unknowingly Alienating 1 in 5 of your Customers? (Retail TouchPoints)
Retail spaces may unintentionally exclude neurodivergent shoppers by bombarding the senses with lights, sounds, and scents. This piece urges retailers to rethink store environments for greater inclusivity and accessibility. - ADHD Workplace Accommodations are Crucial for Women (Observer)
An insightful look at why women with ADHD face unique struggles at work including misdiagnosis, stigma, and lack of support. It shares strategies for advocating workplace accommodations and promoting understanding. - How One Day at the Ballpark Meant the World to Families with Disabilities (The Arc)
This uplifting story describes an inclusive baseball event where families with disabilities experienced true belonging, accessibility, and joy, reminding us what thoughtful community inclusion can look like. - Maybe I Wasn’t Broken, Just Built Differently (Medium)
A personal reflection on realizing neurodivergence is not a flaw but a different way of being. The author writes candidly about moving from corporate struggles to finding self-acceptance through entrepreneurship. - A Psychologist Calls Out the Most Harmful Dating Myth About Autism (Forbes)
This article debunks persistent dating myths about autism, drawing on new research and psychological perspectives to foster healthier, more respectful relationships. - Scams! (Life with Aspergers Blog)
A practical write-up on common scams targeting autistic and neurodivergent people, and tips for staying safe online and offline.
If you come across a story we should include next week, let us know. We’re all building this community together.
