In this blog post, I want to talk about my personal journey through neurodiversity. Through talking about my own journey, I hope to shed light on how it has impacted my mental health and recount my encounters with management and employers throughout my career. Neurodiversity has been a central theme in both my professional and academic life, bringing with it moments of triumph and moments of despair.
There have been times when I have felt like I was on top of the world, celebrating significant achievements. Yet, there have also been profound lows, one of which became the catalyst for the creation of DYSL.IO.
The turning point came after I returned from my honeymoon and found myself embroiled in a challenging situation at work related to my neurodiversity. Discovering that colleagues had been discussing issues concerning my neurodiversity behind my back was deeply distressing. However, the real blow came during a discussion with my manager about my dyslexia and its impact on my spelling and communication.
I was met with a lack of understanding and empathy as my manager and an educator I worked closely with emphasized that spelling errors were unacceptable and that I simply had to “do better.” This comment from two individuals who I deemed mentors, made me feel completely ashamed. Despite explaining my dyslexia and the inherent challenges it posed, I was met with a rigid expectation of perfection. What made matters worse was discovering that the technology provided by my employer was not suitable for my needs, particularly for dictating medical terminology. I had to advocate for the appropriate software, facing resistance from both my department and IT, who insisted it was only for physicians. I had to remind them of my rights under Alberta’s accommodation laws. Before being given the technology I needed.
The pressure to constantly double-check my communications to avoid any errors took a toll on my mental health. I found myself driving home in tears, grappling with the realization that I was alone in facing such challenges. In my despair, I recognized the need for more open conversations about neurodiversity in the workplace. I realized that my experience was not unique and that many others likely faced similar struggles.
Even in seeking support from the union, I was met with disappointment when I was informed that as a non-permanent employee, I did not have the same rights to seek accommodations. This revelation left me feeling even more isolated and unsupported.
The toll it took on me was immense—I isolated myself from my friends, neglected self-care, and struggled to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It felt like I was reliving a nightmare from my past, reminiscent of the challenges I faced during high school. However, amidst this darkness, I found a spark of determination to make a change.
It was this realization that spurred me to create DYSL.IO—a platform aimed at combating the stigma of neurodiversity in a comprehensive manner.
DYSL.IO’s mission is multifaceted. We aim to coach individuals with neurodiversity, empowering them to communicate effectively with employers. Simultaneously, we strive to educate employers on how to better support neurodiverse employees. Additionally, we are developing technology to aid communication for neurodiverse individuals, recognizing the importance of accessibility in fostering inclusivity.
As for the resolution with my previous employer, there was no grand finale. Management eventually shifted their focus elsewhere, leaving me to navigate a challenging environment on my own. However, I made the decision to seek out more supportive and accepting environments where my neurodiversity would be embraced rather than stigmatized.
However, these challenges only fueled my determination to change the narrative surrounding neurodiversity. DYSL.IO is not just a business venture; it is a commitment to ensuring that others don’t endure the same struggles I did. It is about creating a world where neurodiversity is celebrated, not shunned—a world where individuals like myself feel supported and empowered to thrive.
Welcome to dysl.io, your trusted destination for solutions catering to neurodiverse individuals, including those with dyslexia, ADHD, dysgraphia, and beyond. Our mission is to empower every individual through personalized coaching, innovative enterprise solutions, expert corporate consulting, and cutting-edge AI technology, all while prioritizing diversity and inclusion. Additionally, at dysl.io, we’re pioneers in creating technology for individuals with neurodiversity, harnessing the power of AI to break down barriers. We’re currently developing our flagship app, designed to assist individuals with dyslexia by utilizing AI technology to overcome challenges and enhance their capabilities. Our comprehensive blog serves as a beacon of practical insights and strategies, equipping neurodiverse individuals with the tools they need to thrive in both personal and professional spheres. Whether it’s optimizing workflow, navigating educational environments, or fostering inclusive workplaces, dysl.io is your partner in success. We also help individuals take action on accommodations and provide AI technology solutions tailored to neurodiverse needs. As passionate advocates for diversity and inclusion, we’re committed to creating a world where everyone, regardless of neurodiversity, has equal opportunities to excel. Explore dysl.io today for top-notch solutions and consultancy for a brighter, more inclusive future. Join us on this journey toward empowerment and discovery, and together, let’s pave the way for a world that celebrates neurodiversity in all its forms.
