Worksheet: Challenging Internalised Ableism in Autism and ADHD
We live in a society where being “normal” is viewed as the ideal, and where disabled people (including Autistic people and ADHDers) experience daily prejudice and discrimination and stigma for failing to meet this standard. When disabled people are repeatedly exposed to these pervasive negative attitudes, they can begin to believe them, viewing their disability as a flaw and seeing themselves as broken and a burden to others. This is known as internalised ableism. Once established, internalised ableism can lead an Autistic person or ADHDer to hide their authentic self, feel ashamed of their difficulties, and never ask for help or accept it.
This worksheet will help you explore your internalised ableism, gently challenge these beliefs, and identify ways to make your life easier and more comfortable. Remember, there are no prizes for doing things the hard way.
