Neurodiversity

When we talk today about the diversity of human functioning: behaviour, learning, communication, interaction, … then there are currently two very different visions in society, in the workplace, in education, and in the academic world: the pathological model and the neurodiversity paradigm.

In every organisation, there are challenges and barriers that are not always visible but have a significant impact on employees’ performance and well-being. Some employees face obstacles due to neurodivergence or other factors that are difficult to detect. Others may not even be aware of what is hindering them. How can an organisation identify what is happening with its employees and create an environment that accommodates these invisible differences?

Every neurodivergent person is unique, so it’s essential to tailor remote work environments to individual needs instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you’re neurodivergent or managing neurodivergent employees, the key is to ask what environment helps them perform best.

Recently, a tragic event unfolded where a man experiencing psychosis was shot and killed by police officers. Ironically, the man had reached out to the police himself, knowing he needed help. Unfortunately, this situation escalated into a fatal confrontation, shedding light on the gaps in training and understanding when it comes to handling mental health crises.

In the future-proof workplace, the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) have become paramount. Yet, a critical aspect often overlooked is the intersection of neurodiversity and other identity categories such as age, ethnicity, gender, social class and sexual orientation. Understanding intersectionality — a concept coined by Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw — is vital for creating truly inclusive environments where every employee can thrive. As employers, acknowledging and addressing the unique experiences of neurodivergent individuals, especially those who belong to multiple marginalised groups, is essential for fostering an innovative, productive and resilient workplace.