A woman with neurodiversity has spoken out about the negative impacts of labeling it as a ‘superpower’.
In recent years, discussions surrounding mental health have become more transparent, with individuals who either experience these conditions or are familiar with someone who does, using social media to voice their stories, advice, and suggestions.
Having a shared community is crucial for individuals dealing with long-term conditions. Simply being aware that others share the same experience can provide reassurance that, even though it might not always feel that way, you are not isolated.
While this sense of community is vital, journalist Eleanor Neale points out that it can sometimes lead to misrepresentation or trivialization of conditions, potentially undermining the understanding of their full impact, particularly as more individuals pursue diagnoses.
Eleanor Neale, writing for the Metro, shared her experiences of living with ADHD—a condition she found ‘debilitating’. The condition has been increasingly spotlighted as more adults receive diagnoses in recent years.
ADHD impacts an individual’s focus and memory, often causing disruptions in daily living. According to the University of Utah, the number of adult ADHD diagnoses has climbed from 6.1% to 10.2% over the last twenty years.
Eleanor was diagnosed with the condition in her early twenties. While she appreciates the growing conversations, she notes a problematic portrayal that hinders proper understanding.
The narrative that ADHD is a ‘superpower’ is one such portrayal.
Viewing a condition as an ‘asset’ isn’t new in the context of mental health or neurodivergence. The historical association of Van Gogh’s art with his severe depression has led to the troubling question of whether creative brilliance justifies suffering—a notion firmly dismissed.
Eleanor elaborated that the ‘superpower’ narrative surrounding ADHD is concerning because, although people might have good intentions in trying to cast a positive light on a difficult situation, ADHD has significantly complicated, even destroyed, many lives.
Individuals might struggle to maintain employment, face substance abuse, experience strained relationships, or encounter financial difficulties due to ADHD.
She expressed: “When I’m crying on my bedroom floor because my room’s a mess and I physically can’t tidy it up; I’ve forgotten to pay a bill, or my mind has been racing so much that sleep has been replaced by insomnia, these positives don’t always come to me.
“And in these low moments, I certainly don’t feel as though I have a superpower.”
Eleanor highlighted that everyone’s experiences vary.
She stated, “Calling ADHD a superpower might sound positive, but it glosses over the reality that living with it can be genuinely debilitating. It suggests we can turn our struggles into assets if we just try hard enough.”