Some of you may be familiar with the concept of the ADHD tax. ADHDers have extra expenses due to their condition. E.g. I’m always buying new umbrellas because I can’t remember where I put it! (this happens to me every winter multiple times).
However, I feel that this concept could be extended beyond just ADHD. For example, I have to pay for extra software so that my writing makes sense because of my dyslexia. Currently, this is costing me £109 every year as it only runs on a subscription service. Also, I spend more money on things like clothes and bedsheets due to sensory reasons. Let’s not get started on several times I’ve ordered takeaways because I’m too exhausted from masking to cook while also experiencing executive function challenges.
If I’m on public transport for a short journey and experience sensory overload, sometimes I just have to get off and get a taxi home (this often isn’t an option on a long journey due to costs).
I’m sure there are many more examples; these are just some of the biggest ones for me.
Over time these costs add up a lot. Sometimes it can feel expensive to be neurodivergent in a neurotypical world.
What do you think? Do you agree or not? Are there other expenses associated with your neurodivergence I’ve not mentioned in this article? Let me know in the comments below.
If you enjoy my writing or would like to support my online advocacy work (and help pay my neurodivergent tax), I would be forever grateful if you could buy me a coffee (or tea in my case).