Systemic Discrimination and ADHD: It’s the System That’s Failing, Not You

Systemic discrimination refers to a system of barriers that are deeply rooted in historical patterns of injustice. System discrimination isn’t incidental, and it disproportionately impacts people of color and marginalized communities via racism, ableism, and other forms of oppression. However, people with neurodivergence also experience systemic discrimination. And while it can feel like you’re the one failing, it’s not you. It’s the system.

Understanding what systemic discrimination is and shedding light on its impacts can help you cope better. Here’s what you need to know. 

What is Systemic Discrimination?

Systemic discrimination refers to the policies, practices, and institutional behaviors that create and maintain inequities across different social groups. If you have neurodivergence, such as sensory processing disorder, autism, or ADHD, you probably understand what it’s like to navigate systems that weren’t built with your needs in mind. Think: school systems that evaluate students based on ability to focus and sit still, workplaces that lack accommodations, and healthcare systems that are undereducated about neurodivergent experiences.

While anyone whose lived experience diverges from the neurotypical norm can face these hurdles, the consequences are especially severe for those who do not fit the mold of a straight, white, cisgender, neurotypical man. Different insersections of your identity can create further difficulties. For example, the intersection of neurodivergence with systemic racism and homophobia means that queer people of color with neurodivergence or another type of disability often experience even more difficulties compared to their straight, white, neurotypical counterparts.

Impacts of Discrimination on ADHD

So how exactly are discrimination and ADHD connected? People who are most impacted by systemic discrimination are told that their struggles stem from personal failings. People with ADHD receive messages throughout their lives that they’re lazy, stupid, unprofessional, and do things “the wrong way.” Many neurodivergent also struggle to connect with others because they feel so different from everyone else, which can lead to loneliness, social anxiety, and mental health issues. 

System discrimination often leads to:

• Imposter syndrome
• Burnout
• Coping skills that tend to backfire in the long run, like perfectionism
• Gender inequity in receiving treatment
• Financial strains
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Chronic fatigue
• Decreased functioning
• Substance abuse

The social, mental, and physical consequences of discrimination often make it difficult for people to access equitable healthcare, maintain employment, and manage the daily demands of living in a neurotypical society.

Examples of Discrimination and ADHD

Systemic discrimination impacts professional life, mental and physical health, social relationships, and overall well-being. Here are some common examples I see in my clients’ lives.

Lack of Access to Knowledgeable Healthcare

Navigating healthcare with neurodivergence can be daunting, especially when practitioners lack knowledge, experience, and training. This limited awareness leads to misdiagnosis, inadequate treatment, or dismissive attitudes, especially if your neurodivergence doesn’t align with stereotypical expectations. (Ahem, like many women.) Plus, advocating for yourself in a medical setting is often challenging to begin with. When you add in sensory sensitivities or anxiety, it can feel impossible to receive proper care.

Discrimination Against ADHD in the Workplace

People with ADHD often face discrimination that impacts job security, financial stability, and overall well-being. Productivity-driven environments that prioritize speed, efficiency, and other traditional measures of success can be really tough places for employees who thrive under different conditions. Work cultures like this can result in microaggressions, stereotyping (where their behaviors are misinterpreted as irresponsible or unprofessional), exclusion from advancement opportunities, and even getting fired. 

Relationship Stress, Social Stigma, and Isolation

Shitty and often untrue stereotypes about ADHD can lead to social rejection or exclusion. Being labeled as "disruptive" or "lazy" might cause difficulties forming friendships or relationships with your peers. You might find yourself feeling misunderstood and isolated, which worsens mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. 

Plus, ADHD can strain relationships with current family and friends, especially when your loved ones lack understanding or awareness of your lived experience with neurodivergence. This stress can be exacerbated by things like ADHD emotional dysregulation, misconceptions about ADHD, and judgment from others about your neurodivergent behaviors. 

Financial Instability

ADHD-related discrimination can make financial stability more challenging. Impulsivity and difficulties with organization often impact money management, causing issues like impulse spending or retail therapy. Some people with ADHD may struggle to keep a job due to things like inability to maintain focus or attention, which is a huge problem when it comes to mental health, debt, and housing insecurity.

ADHD Therapy to Support You 

I understand what it’s like to experience systemic discrimination. Living with neurodivergence can feel like a constant battle to feel seen and function in a system that wasn’t designed for you. However, let me make this very clear: the system is at fault, not you. And if you want help peeling back the layers of your identity and neurodivergence, I’m here to support you. 

As an ADHD therapist, I’ll help you understand the unique way you approach life. Together, we’ll unravel the root causes of your biggest struggles, break down the barriers holding you back, and figure out real-time strategies for dealing with systemic discrimination that actually help. You can thrive and find more balance and meaning in your life – sometimes it just takes some support.

Learn more about my therapy services (including EMDR and talk therapy) if you’re located in Idaho, Iowa, or South Carolina. For all other locations, check out my coaching services. My coaching program offers all the same expertise, tools, and guidance as therapy in a more direct and goal-oriented approach that you can benefit from anywhere. 

Reach out today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s start building a better future together.