Reimagining Difference

  Navigating Social Rejection as a Neurodivergent Person Let’s be honest—social rejection hurts. Whether it’s being left out, misunderstood, or outright excluded, those moments can stick with us for a long time. For neurodivergent folks, this can be an all-too-familiar experience, especially in spaces that don’t value or understand the way our brains work. But here’s the truth: rejection doesn’t define your worth. It’s possible to heal from those painful experiences, build resilience, and find people who genuinely celebrate you for who you are. Let’s dive into why social rejection hits so hard and how to navigate it with strength and compassion. Why Social Rejection Feels So Intense For neurodivergent individuals, social rejection often carries extra layers of complexity. Here’s why it can feel so intense: Masking Fallout:  If you’ve spent time masking to fit in, rejection can feel like confirmation that even your “best effort” isn’t enough. Hyperawareness:  Many neurodiv...

  Neurodivergent Burnout: How to Recognize It and Recover We’ve all heard about burnout, right? But for neurodivergent folks, burnout isn’t just about working too hard or being overly busy. It’s something deeper—a kind of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion that often comes from living in a world that wasn’t designed with us in mind. Whether it’s masking, overcommitting, or constantly navigating environments that feel overwhelming, neurodivergent burnout hits differently. It’s not about laziness or lack of effort—it’s a sign that your brain and body are crying out for rest and understanding. Let’s explore what neurodivergent burnout looks like, how to recognize it, and most importantly, how to recover. What Does Neurodivergent Burnout Look Like? Neurodivergent burnout can manifest differently for everyone, but here are some common signs to watch for: Intense Exhaustion:  Feeling physically and mentally drained, even after rest. Heightened Sensory Sensitivities:  Li...