Neurodivergence and the Elevated Risk for Suicide
September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and hold conversations that can save lives. While suicide is a complex issue with no single cause, certain populations face an elevated risk. Among these are individuals with undiagnosed ADHD and/or Autism.
Many people are surprised to learn about this connection, but when you peel back the layers of a life lived without understanding your own neurotype, the reasons become painfully clear. For those with undiagnosed ADHD or Autism, the world can be a confusing, overwhelming place. They may spend a lifetime assuming that personal character failings are the reason they feel so different, leading to chronic feelings of hopelessness, loneliness, and despair.
The Hidden Burdens of Being Undiagnosed
When a neurotype goes unacknowledged, the individual is left to navigate life's challenges without a proper roadmap. This can lead to a number of compounding factors that increase the risk of suicidal ideation.
Masking and Burnout: Undiagnosed neurodivergent individuals, particularly autistic girls and women, often spend a tremendous amount of energy "masking"—hiding their natural traits to fit in with neurotypical social norms. This constant effort is mentally and emotionally exhausting, leading to burnout, a state of chronic fatigue and increased mental health distress. This is a significant risk factor for suicide.
Misdiagnosis and Lack of Self-Understanding: Without a diagnosis, many people are mislabeled with conditions that don't capture the full picture of their struggles. They may be diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or a personality disorder, but these diagnoses (if incorrect) fail to address the underlying neurodivergence. This can lead to ineffective treatment and a deep-seated feeling that something is fundamentally "wrong" with them, further fueling a sense of hopelessness.
Social Isolation and Trauma: The social differences that come with neurodivergence can lead to a lifetime of bullying, exclusion, and miscommunication. These repeated negative experiences, from childhood to adulthood, create a painful history of social trauma and isolation. This feeling of being a burden or not belonging is a well-documented risk factor for suicide.
Warning Signs: What to Look For
Recognizing the warning signs of suicide is crucial. They are often a cry for help from someone in immense pain. While some signs may be subtle, it's important to pay attention to any sudden or concerning changes in behavior.
Talking about suicide or wanting to die: This is the most direct and serious warning sign. Take any mention of suicide seriously, even if it seems like a joke.
Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
Looking for a way to end their life, such as searching online for methods or acquiring weapons.
Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities.
Changes in mood, such as increased anxiety, agitation, irritability, or a sudden sense of calm after a period of distress.
Expressing feelings of being a burden to others or feeling trapped.
Giving away prized possessions or saying final goodbyes.
Sudden financial problems often lead to feelings of distress and hopelessness.
Resources and How to Help
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please know that help is available. You are not alone, and there is a community of support ready to help.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: This is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24/7. You can call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org. The line is not just for those actively in a crisis; it's a resource for anyone who needs to talk, even if it's about a bad day.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP): The AFSP is a leading organization dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. Their website (afsp.org) offers a wealth of resources, including support for those who have lost a loved one to suicide, educational programs, and advocacy opportunities.
In a world that often struggles to understand neurodivergence, we must be a beacon of empathy and support. By recognizing the unique struggles of undiagnosed neurodivergent individuals and knowing the signs of suicide, we can make a difference and help save a life.
If you or a loved one suspect that a neurodivergent profile may be at the root of your struggles, a proper, affirming assessment is the first step toward understanding yourself and finding the right path forward. At QC Psych Testing, PLLC, I provide comprehensive evaluations to help you find clarity and begin your journey toward self-acceptance and well-being. Schedule your appointment today!
