Neuro & Noir: Thriving Beyond Bias
Hey y’all! Let’s dive into a topic that’s close to my heart and, honestly, pretty heavy — but don’t worry, I’ll sprinkle in some humor to keep things light. We’re talking about the intersection of neurodivergence and misogynoir. Yup, it’s complex, but stick with me!
Definitions
So, let’s start with some definitions.
Neurodivergence means that some people's brains work differently from the brain of the average population. This can include things like autism, ADHD, or dyslexia. It sees these differences as part of natural human diversity, not as problems.
Misogynoir is the discrimination Black women face because they are both Black and women. It combines racism and sexism into one experience that specifically affects Black women.
Misdiagnosis and Underdiagnosis
Ever feel like you’re not quite getting the right support or diagnosis? Yeah, welcome to the club. Black women and girls are often misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed when it comes to neurodivergent conditions like autism and ADHD. Research from the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders shows that black children are 5.1 times more likely to be misdiagnosed with behavioral disorders before an autism diagnosis compared to their white peers. It’s like the medical community skipped our page in the textbook. Spoiler alert: They did.
Cultural Stigmas
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room — cultural stigmas. In many Black communities, mental health and neurodivergence are still taboo topics. According to a study published in the Journal of Community Psychology in 2020, cultural stigmas and a lack of awareness contribute significantly to the underdiagnosis and late diagnosis of neurodivergent conditions. It’s like we’re expected to be superwomen 24/7. Girl, it’s exhausting. Seeking help can feel like admitting defeat, but trust me, it’s the bravest thing you can do.
Educational Disparities
Remember school? Yeah, me neither (kidding!). But seriously, educational settings can be a nightmare for neurodivergent Black girls. We’re often misunderstood and disciplined more harshly. Instead of getting the support we need, we get labeled as “troublemakers.” It’s like being stuck in a bad teen drama, and we deserve better plotlines.
Workplace Challenges
Fast forward to the workplace, and it’s a whole new ball game. Neurodivergent Black women face a double whammy of discrimination. The discrimination negatively impacts us by making it harder to access the same opportunities or accommodations as our peers.It’s like playing a game where the rules are constantly changing, and you’re never given the cheat codes. Navigating these spaces can feel like an Olympic sport.
Healthcare Inequities
Don’t even get me started on healthcare. Finding a provider who understands both your neurodivergence and your cultural background? It’s like searching for a unicorn. We need culturally competent care that respects our unique experiences, period. A healthcare provider who isn’t culturally competent may overlook or misinterpret the unique experiences of neurodivergent Black women, leading to misdiagnosis, ineffective treatments, and a lack of trust in the healthcare system. This can result in delayed or inappropriate care, which exacerbates existing disparities and negatively impacts both mental and physical well-being. In short, it deepens the divide between receiving adequate support and care.
So, What Do We Do?
Awareness and Advocacy
First things first, we need to raise some serious awareness. Talk about these issues with your friends, family, and even that one coworker who thinks they know everything (we all have one). Advocacy groups and community organizations are doing great work, so get involved and make some noise! The more noise we make, the more likely it is that policies and systems will start to shift in our favor.
Inclusive Education and Training
Schools and workplaces need to step up their game. Comprehensive training programs that address both neurodiversity and anti-racism are a must. This would benefit neurodivergent Black women by creating environments where our needs are understood and met, instead of dismissed or ignored. It’s time to create spaces where everyone can thrive — no exceptions.
Culturally Competent Healthcare
We need healthcare providers who get it. Cultural competence isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. Finding a doctor who listens and understands can make all the difference. A culturally competent provider can offer more personalized care, ensuring that we get the right treatments and feel seen and heard.
Support Networks
Build your tribe! Find or create support networks where you can share your experiences and resources. There is strength in numbers, and knowing you’re not alone is powerful. Support networks provide emotional backing, practical advice, and a sense of community. For neurodivergent Black women, having a community that understands both aspects of our identity can be life-changing. It’s a space where we don’t have to explain ourselves — we can just be.
Research and Policy Change
Lastly, we need more research to fully understand this intersection to inform policy changes. Let’s push for studies that reflect our realities and policies that address our unique challenges. This research will help us address systemic biases and create a future where we’re not just surviving but thriving.
Moving Towards Equity
Acknowledging our experiences is just the beginning. We need to act to dismantle these barriers and create a more just and inclusive society. By breaking down these barriers and creating an inclusive, supportive world, we’ll unlock the true potential of every person. Through awareness, advocacy, education, culturally competent care, and policy change, we can make it happen. And hey, while we’re at it, let’s do it with some humor, love, and a whole lot of resilience. Because if anyone can do it, it’s us.
Stay strong and fabulous, y’all!
Sources:
- “Disparities in Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in African American Children” Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. 2021. (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10803-020-04682-9)
“Cultural Stigmas and Neurodivergence in Black Communities” Journal of Community Psychology. 2020. ](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jcop.22352)
Deborah Esther is an interdisciplinary artist who has spent nearly 15 years honing her craft in poetry, music, and painting. Her journey as a creative seamlessly intertwines her faith and experiences, culminating in a vibrant expression of her innermost thoughts and beliefs. In 2018, a life-altering encounter with Jesus prompted a name change and relocation from Kansas City to Houston. Despite facing numerous challenges upon her arrival, the Holy Spirit has remained the driving force behind her artistic endeavors.
As Deborah once heard the Lord say, “Don’t cry for free”, she was inspired to establish her business, God Factor Consulting LLC, a pioneering consulting firm dedicated to helping faith-based founders turn pain into profit through creative strategy and networking. She also authored two significant literary works: "Everything That Has Breath," a poetry chapbook, and its companion workbook. Inspired by her own journey, her books delve into themes of grief, mental health, and faith, offering readers a roadmap to healing and spiritual growth. Moreover, Deborah has also released 4 singles and is working on her album, BECOMING. Deborah's story is a testament to faith and creativity's resilience and transformative power, inspiring others to embrace their unique journeys.
