I made this little guide to help folks know what helps me as a disabled person in the workplace. I like the illustrated version and the video version, but here is the plain text if that is more useful for you:
I’m Graham and I have ADHD, Autism, and anxiety with depression.
This will have virtually zero impact on you. However! You can make my life easier with some small changes.
Regular check ins: This means I know what’s going on with YOU and YOU know what’s going on with ME. It should cover: Physical, mental emotional.
Acknowledge that mental health issues can be debilitating. Flexible working means I don’t have to choose between burnout and losing income.
I sometimes take things more literally than you might be used to. If you’re expecting a certain outcome from a discussion, be extra clear and make sure we’re on the same page.
You can help by being specific about the contents of meetings. Being vague can lead to assuming the worst.
If I seem out of the ordinary, it’s ok to ask.
Be patient. Be honest. Encourage open discourse.
If you express prejudice against marginalised groups I will call you out. Please do the same for me. We can always do better.
None of these adjustments are essential, but they level the playing field and we will work better together if you take the time.
I’m happy to discuss compromise on all these, but that compromise should acknowledge the years of therapy I have done, and the work and energy I put in daily just being a neurodivergent person in a neurotypical space and workplace. I am happy to meet in the middle, but the middle probably isn’t where you think it is.
If you have access needs too, tell me. I will listen.
