Hearing "everyone is a little bit Autistic" can feel invalidating and diminish the distinct experiences of Autistic individuals. These comments, often rooted in misunderstanding or attempted empathy, reveal how language shapes—and sometimes distorts—public understanding of Autism.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the common phrase and idea that “everyone is a little bit Autistic.” They explore why this phrase is so prevalent, the intentions and real impacts behind such statements, and the crucial differences between having “Autistic traits” and living with the full Autistic experience. You’ll hear honest stories about disclosure, invalidation, and what “context sensitivity” really means in identifying Autism—and why language matters when advocating for neurodivergent needs.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

1. Gain a deeper understanding of why the phrase “everyone is a little bit Autistic” can be harmful, and get clear language for differentiating between having Autistic traits and being Autistic.
2. Hear personal reflections from Patrick and Megan Anna on invalidation, masking, disclosure in professional and personal life, and what it’s like to receive common microaggressions—even from therapists and family members.
3. Explore what truly defines the Autistic experience, including insightful discussion of “context sensitivity” as a key factor in proper identification, and how this impacts access to support, accommodations, and authentic self-acceptance.

This conversation helps to unpack the phrase “everyone is a little Autistic,” and explores the difference between possessing “Autistic traits” and living with the unique neurological, sensory, and social realities of Autism.

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✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout Resources

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Mentioned in this episode:

Neurodivergent Insights' Autistic Burnout Resources

If you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources

Jane

Jane is a clinic management software and EMR designed to be an extra set of helping hands in your health and wellness business. Available online and on any device, Jane has branded online booking, scheduling, insurance billing, customizable documentation templates and online forms, integrated payments, telehealth, and more — wrapped up in one beautiful package that even your patients/clients will love. Backed by our unlimited human support available by phone, email, and chat (even on Saturdays!), Jane is here to help you get back to the work you love. Get 2 months off new Jane subscriptions when you use code DCPOD at signup. Visit: https://janesoftware.partnerlinks.io/divergentconversations