03/03/2025
Why 'Functioning Labels' Are Failing Neurodivergent People.
“High-functioning” or “low-functioning.” You’ve heard these labels before. But have you ever stopped to think about the harm they cause?
Functioning labels reduce complex individuals to a single spectrum of ability.
They prioritize how neurodivergent people appear to others rather than their actual needs.
They ignore the fact that abilities fluctuate based on environment, stress, and accommodations.
Instead of asking whether someone is "high" or "low-functioning," we should be asking:
What supports help you thrive?
What challenges do you face, and how can we help?
At Thriving Minds, we advocate for neurodivergent individuals to be seen as whole, complex individuals. DM us to learn more about how we can support you!
Image description: A roll of blank labels. Text reads: functioning labels reduce complex individuals to a single spectrum of ability.