The struggles of unemployment for the neurodiverse: causes, anecdotes, and solutions
The high unemployment rate among individuals with Autism is a deeply concerning issue that often goes unnoticed by those outside the community. As an Autistic, I have experienced firsthand the challenges that come with seeking and maintaining employment in a world that isn’t always accommodating or understanding of our unique needs.
I want to share my perspective and advocate for more people to understand the realities of Autism, the struggles we face, and the ways in which the workplace can become a more inclusive environment for those on the spectrum.
Lack of Understanding & Accommodations
One of the primary reasons for the high unemployment rate among Autistic people is the lack of understanding about Autism in general and in the workplace. Many employers simply don’t know what Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) truly is, and how it affects our daily lives. As a result, the work environment often isn’t adapted to meet the specific needs of people on the spectrum. This can lead to situations where the expectations for a neurotypical employee are placed on us, without considering the different ways we communicate, process information, or interact socially.
Every time I apply for new jobs, I understand that I am expected to perform in interviews just like anyone else. The anxiety that comes with social interactions in an environment where I need to impress a stranger often leads me to expend lots of energy masking and overpromising on my work goals. I never communicate my needs as clearly as I want, or I ignore them altogether. The stress of trying to “fit in” during these interviews only adds to my struggles.
The lack of accommodations is another major issue. Workplaces often don’t provide the necessary support that could help Autistic folks thrive, such as clear written instructions, quiet spaces, or flexible work hours. Without these adjustments, it’s difficult for us to fully focus and perform at our best.
Communication and Social Interaction Challenges
Communication and social interaction difficulties are some of the most common challenges faced by Autistics. Whether it’s interpreting body language, engaging in small talk, or understanding social norms, the workplace can feel overwhelming. For those of us who struggle with these social nuances, it can lead to misunderstandings and frustration, both for us and our colleagues.
I absolutely loved my most recent job at my college’s newspaper. The hours were flexible, I always enjoyed writing, and I loved my coworkers. However, on a trip to a journalism conference in New Orleans, my colleagues and I were removed from the office setting and put into one that is more relaxed and close-knit. While on this trip there were multiple times when I miscommunicated with my coworkers, causing some of them to feel offended or confused due to misinterpretations. I only found out about these issues upon our return and was subsequently treated icily by my coworkers to the point I felt forced to quit.
For employers who aren’t trained to recognize these challenges, it can lead to misjudgments and negative assumptions about our abilities or forms of communication. We might be seen as uninterested, unmotivated, offensive, or poor team players, when in reality, we may just be struggling with the social and communicative aspects of the job.
Discrimination and Stigma
Another unfortunate reality is the discrimination and stigma that many individuals with Autism face in the workplace. Despite the progress we’ve made in society in terms of acceptance and inclusivity, there are still many places where neurodivergent individuals, including those with Autism, face bias. Negative stereotypes about people with ASD, such as the belief that we are “difficult” or “unable to work well with others,” often prevent us from being considered for job opportunities in the first place.
My last job at the newspaper has been the only one in which I felt comfortable enough to divulge my diagnosis publically. So, I have little experience with discrimination of this matter in the workplace, but I have heard some people say incredibly insensitive things to me and online. I have been asked if I can take a pill to cure my ASD, condescendingly told how “brave” I am for existing with Autism, and even told to not use my diagnosis as an “excuse.” Naturally, having Autism is not an “excuse” for behavior that is disapproved of, but rather an explanation.
Education and Training Gaps
Education and training are critical to preparing individuals with Autism in the workforce, yet many of us face significant gaps in access to these resources. Studies have shown that only about 58% of young adults with Autism receive any form of vocational or college education after highschool. This lack of education leaves many individuals unprepared for the competitive job market, without the necessary skills or qualification to pursue meaningful careers.
I struggled with school growing up, not because I wasn’t capable, but because the traditional education system didn’t account for the way my brain works. I graduated high school with a grade point average of 1.8. I took several years off before college because of how much I dreaded the idea of continued education. However, once I made it to college I was able to tailor my study methods and interests to the point where I graduated Magna Cum Laude and attended one of the world’s best universities. Luckily, I am part of the other half of ASD diagnosees to gain employable skills.
Mental Health Issues
Mental health is another significant factor that impacts the employment prospects of individuals with Autism. Many of us experience co-occuring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, which can make navigating the job search and maintaining employment even more challenging. In fact, studies suggest that up to 70% of adults with ASD also have at least one mental health condition that affects their ability to work effectively.
I know what it’s like to navigate life with all of these issues. Each slice of my mental health pie make it harder for me to function doing basic tasks daily. The pressure of finding a job, coupled with the fear of rejection, has led me to experience severe bouts of depression where I am too low to take care of myself. I’ve often felt defeated, thinking that my condition was the reason why things aren’t working out. But I also realize that a lack of understanding and support only exacerbated my struggles.
The Importance of Inclusivity in the Workplace
Creating a more inclusive workplace culture is critical for ensuring that people with Autism have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully in our roles. Employers must not only understand the challenges we face but also recognize the unique strengths we bring to the table. Individuals with Autism often excel in areas such as attention to detail, problem-solving, and analytical thinking, which are highly valued traits.
Employers who provide the right accommodations–such as assistive technology, clear communication protocols, and specifically trained human resources individuals–can help us thrive. Additionally, training all employees on neurodivergence can reduce stigma and create a more understanding and supportive work environment.
I have struggled finding work environments where the atmosphere was consistently positive and understanding of my needs. However, in good settings, my strengths are recognized and accommodations like deadline extensions, alternative forms of communication, and positive feedback made a huge difference. It was in these environments where I felt valued and had the opportunity to succeed
How Can We Solve the Problem?
There are many ways we can begin to address the high unemployment rate among individuals with Autism. First, there needs to be a broader public education campaign to raise awareness and the ways in which employers can be more supportive. It’s crucial to make sure that employers understand the needs of neurodivergent individuals and provide accommodations to help us succeed.
Second, Autistics need better access to vocational training and education programs. With the right skills, we can be competitive in the job market and pursue careers that align with our strengths and interests. There are also government programs such as the Ticket to Work and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which provide valuable resource to help people find and maintain jobs.
Personally, I have always been a keen advocate for affordable and/or free education. Not only do I feel extremely grateful for my degree, I also relish the opportunity to expand my horizons on a college campus. Of course I learned impactful topics in my coursework in history and literature, but also through new ways of thinking and meeting diverse people.
Finally, employers need to actively seek out neurodiverse talent. Even massive corporations like Microsoft have shown that hiring people on the spectrum can lead to positive outcomes, not only for the employees but for the business as a whole. By creating tailored hiring processes and offering specialized support, these companies have built diverse, productive, and inclusive teams.
The high unemployment rate among Autistics is a multifaceted issue, but with greater understanding, support, and accommodations, it is possible to create a more inclusive and accessible job market. By recognizing our unique challenges and strengths and making adjustments to the workplace, we can unlock the potential for countless individuals to contribute meaningfully.
We need people to listen to our voices, understand our struggles, and work alongside us to create an environment where everyone can thrive. Only then will we see a truly inclusive and equitable job market for all.
Below is a collection of photos from my workplace, the aforementioned New Orleans conference, and praise for my award-winning comic strip.
