- Jessica Wat
- Nov 20
- 3 min read
In a world that often values performance over authenticity, neurodivergent individuals, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, and other neuro-developmental differences, navigate a unique set of challenges. Many of these struggles remain hidden beneath a “high-functioning” facade, where external success masks internal battles with burnout, trauma, and societal expectations.
In our recent Women of Hong Kong Community Call, counsellor, neurodiversity advocate and founder of A Collective Space, Sne Roy, guided us through a sensitive and nuanced conversation about rethinking neurodiversity. From dismantling stereotypes to fostering safe spaces, here are some key insights from the conversation to help us support ourselves and our communities with greater empathy and inclusion.
Redefining Neurodiversity: More Than a Label
Neurodiversity, at its core, acknowledges that all brains are different. While the term initially celebrated this diversity, it has become closely associated with neurodevelopmental conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD. In Hong Kong, cultural stigma often compounds these challenges, with neurodivergence sometimes dismissed as a “phase” or a trend rather than a legitimate experience.
It’s time to shift this narrative. As Sne emphasised, neurodiversity is not about pathologising differences but about honouring the unique ways individuals think, feel, and navigate the world.
Unmasking the “Quirky Genius” Stereotype
Society often portrays neurodivergent individuals as eccentric geniuses with exceptional talents (e.g. think of the “Sheldon Cooper” trope). While strengths certainly exist, this stereotype overlooks the very real struggles many face daily.
The High-Functioning Facade: Many neurodivergent individuals excel in their careers or social roles while privately grappling with overwhelm, anxiety, or sensory overload.
Performative Success: Social media often amplifies this pressure, encouraging curated versions of success that hide deeper emotional or psychological challenges.
Recognising these hidden struggles is the first step toward offering meaningful support.
Creating Safe Spaces for Healing and Validation
For neurodivergent individuals, safe spaces are not a luxury, they are essential. Whether in personal relationships, workplaces, or community settings, validation and trust form the foundation of support.
How to Offer Meaningful Support:
Listen Without Judgment: Sometimes, what a neurodivergent person needs most is to be heard, not fixed. Before offering advice, ask: “Are you looking for solutions, or do you just need to vent?”
Normalise Imperfection: Create environments where struggles can be shared openly without fear of shame or invalidation.
Be Consistent: Trust is built through actions, not just words. Show up, follow through, and prioritise emotional safety.
Understanding Executive Dysfunction
For individuals with ADHD, executive dysfunction can make tasks like planning, organising, and initiating activities feel overwhelming. Well-intentioned advice like “just break it down” may not address the root issue.
Instead, offer:
Structured Guidance: Provide templates, step-by-step instructions, or visual aids to reduce decision paralysis.
Practical Support: Help create roadmaps for tasks, whether it’s managing daily routines or tackling long-term goals.
Decolonising Mental Health: A New Perspective
Traditional mental health frameworks often pathologise neurodivergence, framing it as a disorder to be “fixed.” Sne encouraged us to embrace a more inclusive approach, inspired by indigenous wisdom.
For example, in Maori culture, ADHD is described as “someone in their own world”. It’s a beautiful reframing that celebrates individuality rather than labeling it as a deficit. By decolonising mental health, we can shift from judgment to acceptance, and from exclusion to belonging.
A Call to Action: How You Can Help
Educate Yourself: Learn about neurodiversity from affirming, evidence-based resources.
Amplify Neurodivergent Voices: Center the experiences and insights of neurodivergent individuals in conversations about inclusion.
Advocate for Systemic Change: Encourage workplaces, schools, and communities to adopt neurodiversity-affirming practices.
You Are Not Alone
If you or someone you love identifies as neurodivergent, remember that support is available. Sne generously offered to connect with community members seeking guidance (you can find Sne on Instagram or LinkedIn), and the Women of Hong Kong network remains a space for continued conversation and solidarity. If you'd also like to learn more about Sne's woodworking and wellbeing workshops at A Collective Space, you can find more information on their website here.
Let’s move beyond stereotypes and stigmas to build a world where every mind is valued, every struggle is acknowledged, and every individual has the space to thrive. Together, we can foster a culture of empathy and inclusion, one conversation at a time.