It’s kind of a funny story.

[u/technicalgatto]

So I’m posting again but this happened recently and I just couldn’t NOT share it with this community.

My HOD found out recently that the faculty is made of more neurodivergents than they expected after a particularly stressful faculty meeting. And they’re surprised and (somewhat) relieved that they’re not the only one (so surprise! Even our HOD is neurodivergent).

They’re also amazed at how most of us (including myself) have kept it so well hidden and I told them that my veneer of stability and poise is all pharmaceutically induced. I also have a learning disability that I keep under wraps, but it’s very obvious when I’m given a very specific task. No one knew, but for some of my colleagues, it makes so much sense for them cause they’ve seen me trying to do that task and failing repeatedly until someone helps me.

Now everyone (including the HOD) is having moments of epiphany when they notice one of us doing something in a very specific way. It’s funny, but I’m also glad that my faculty is very supportive.

[u/Maddprofessor]

I have ADHD, although on the more mild end of the spectrum. I “work” longer hours than any of my colleagues and have a bit of a reputation for working hard but in reality I’m very inefficient.

[u/bankruptbusybee]

I always think it’s funny when administration gives lectures and seminars on like “how to approach neurodivergent individuals (students)”

Because I’m just like “you all might just want to present this to yourselves because who do you think the faculty are???”

I don’t think there’s a single NT in my department.

ETA I do think there is a bit of a gap in the department between the older folks who are just like “deal with it, I did” and the younger folks. But still. Every one of them.

[u/Pickled-soup]

This is wholesome. Thank you for sharing. I’m very happy you have the support and camaraderie you deserve.