What it means to face job discrimination as an autistic person

You should know your rights and find help. Learning about autism and job discrimination helps you speak up for yourself and others.

Key Takeaways

• Learn about your rights from the Americans with Disabilities Act. This law helps protect you from unfair treatment at work.
• Notice the different ways people can treat you unfairly. These include bias when hiring, bullying, and not giving needed help.
• Find out what changes you can ask for at work. You might need flexible hours or a quiet place to work. These changes can help you do well.
• Hiding your autistic traits can hurt your mental health. Try to find places where you can act like yourself.
• Ask for help from people you trust. You can also get help from programs at work or autism groups. They can help you with problems.
• If someone treats you unfairly, write down what happens. You can think about making a complaint to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
• Work on speaking up for yourself. Know what you are good at and what you need. Practice asking for help when you need it.
• Help make your workplace more welcoming. Share your story and help others who have the same problems.

Autism and Job Discrimination

Learning about autism and job discrimination shows the problems autistic people have at work. Discrimination can happen in different ways.

You might see unfair treatment when applying for jobs. You could face bullying from coworkers. Sometimes, you do not get the help you need. Stigma and misunderstanding make things harder.

Types of Discrimination

Bias in Hiring

Bias can happen before you get hired. Many bosses like non-autistic candidates more than autistic ones. If you tell them about your diagnosis, it might help.

But it is a hard choice. Some people worry about bad reactions. Telling employers about autism does not always change their minds. Training for hiring managers can help autistic people get jobs.

Bullying

Bullying is a big problem for autistic workers. You might get teased, left out, or harassed at work. Studies show autistic people get bullied more than others.

• Autistic people get bullied, abused, and hurt more than others.
• Up to 94% of autistic kids and teens are bullied while growing up.
• A survey found that almost half of autistic people were bullied at work.

Lack of Adjustments

You may need changes at work to do well. These changes are called reasonable adjustments. The law says bosses must give them. But many autistic workers do not get enough help.

• The ADA says bosses must give reasonable help to autistic workers.
• A study found most bosses said help costs nothing and works well.
• Not getting help is a big problem for autistic workers.

Stigma and Masking

Stigma and not knowing enough about autism cause job discrimination. You might feel you have to hide your autistic traits. This is called masking.

Many people mask to avoid being treated badly. Social rules and the world around you make you mask more. Masking can hurt your mental health and self-esteem.

• Masking happens because of social rules and the world around you.
• Masking is linked to mental health problems.
• Many autistic people mask to avoid stigma and stereotypes.
• Social rules and pressure from others make people mask more.
• Hiding who you are can hurt your confidence and identity.

Stigma and wrong ideas about autism also cause problems when getting hired. Bosses may ignore your skills because of bias. Many jobs do not train or help autistic workers. They miss chances to help autistic people do well.

When you learn how stigma and not knowing enough cause autism and job discrimination, you can stand up for yourself and others.

Impact on Autistic Employees

If you face autism and job discrimination, it can affect your whole life. Discrimination at work does not just make your job tough. It can also hurt your career, your feelings, and your friendships.

Professional Effects

Career Barriers

Autism and job discrimination can make it hard to move up at work. Bosses might not notice your talents or judge you wrongly.

You might not get promoted or offered new jobs because of bias. Sometimes, you must work harder than others to show your worth. This can make you feel stuck or not valued.

Job Loss

Losing a job or not getting hired is common for autistic people. Many autistic adults want jobs, but bosses often do not understand them. This makes finding work very hard. Here are some facts:

• In Europe, 76% to 90% of autistic people do not have jobs.
• In the United States, about 85% of autistic adults do not have full jobs.
• Bosses’ bias and not understanding autism cause these high numbers.

If you lose your job or cannot find one, you may feel sad or worried. You might stress about money or what will happen next. These feelings can make job hunting even harder.

Personal Effects

Mental Health

Autism and job discrimination can hurt your mental health. If you hide your true self every day, you may feel tired or upset.

You might start to believe mean things people say about you. This can cause anxiety, sadness, or low self-worth. You may also feel hurt from being bullied or left out at work.

If you feel stressed, know you are not alone. Many autistic people go through this, and help is out there.

Social Isolation

Workplaces have social rules that are not always clear. People want you to chat or join group events. If you find these hard or avoid them because of sensory overload, people may think you are not friendly. This can make you feel alone and apart from your team.

• Being direct or asking questions may seem rude to others.
• Stimming or needing more time to answer can look unprofessional.
• Hearing “you don’t seem autistic” can feel hurtful and add to stigma.

When people do not get your needs, you may feel left out or lonely. Over time, this can lower your confidence and make it hard to make friends at work.

Remember, your feelings matter. You deserve kindness and respect at work.

Legal Rights

ADA Protections

You have important rights at work under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This law protects you from unfair treatment because of autism. The ADA covers many areas of work life. Here are some key points:

• The ADA stops employers from discriminating against you because you are autistic.
• Employers must treat all workers fairly and follow the same rules for everyone.
• The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) gives advice on what is fair at work.
• Employers cannot use medical tests to keep out people with disabilities.
• You have protection from being bullied, harassed, or punished for speaking up about your rights.

If you feel someone treats you unfairly at work because of autism, the ADA gives you the power to take action.

Reasonable Adjustments

You can ask for changes at work to help you do your job better. These changes are called reasonable adjustments or accommodations.

The ADA says employers with 15 or more workers must provide these unless it is too hard for the business. Some common adjustments for autistic people include:

• Noise-cancelling headphones to block out loud sounds.
• Screen filters to make computer screens easier on your eyes.
• A quiet workspace to help you focus.
• Time management apps to keep track of tasks.
• Instant messaging tools for clear communication.
• Ergonomic chairs or desks for comfort.
• Flexible work hours to fit your needs.
• Written instructions with bullet points or diagrams.
• Extra time for reading or writing tasks.
• Visual cues or timers to help manage time.
• A set routine or clear schedule.
• Exemptions from team meetings or social events if they cause stress.

Your boss must talk with you to find the best adjustments. This process helps you feel supported and lets you do your best work.

Asking for adjustments is your right. You do not need to hide your needs.

Reporting Discrimination

If you face discrimination at work, you can report it. The EEOC enforces laws that protect you from unfair treatment. Here is what you can do:

• File a charge of discrimination with the EEOC if you think your rights are violated.
• Get help from the U.S. Department of Justice – Civil Rights Division.
• Reach out to the National Disability Rights Network for more support.

You do not have to face discrimination alone. These groups can guide you and help you stand up for your rights.

Remember, knowing your rights is the first step to protecting yourself at work.

What to Do

Filing Complaints

If you face discrimination at work because you are autistic, you have the right to file a complaint. This process helps protect you and can also help others in the future. You do not have to handle this alone. Many people and organizations can support you.

Filing a complaint may feel overwhelming, but you can break it down into simple steps:

1. Identify the type of discrimination. Figure out if your problem is about work, housing, travel, or another area.
2. Choose the right agency. For job issues, you should file with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). For problems with air travel, use the Department of Transportation. For housing, go to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). For other types of discrimination, contact the Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division.
3. File your complaint. You can do this online or by mail, depending on what the agency allows.
4. Follow up. After you file, you may need to wait for a response. Sometimes, this can take up to three months.

Keep copies of everything you send. Write down dates and names of people you talk to. This record can help if you need to explain your case later.

Filing a complaint can feel like a big step, but it shows you value your rights. You help make workplaces fairer for everyone.

Seeking Support

You do not have to deal with job discrimination by yourself. There are many people and groups who want to help you. Getting support can help you feel better and handle hard times at work.

Try talking to someone you trust first. This could be a family member, a good friend, or a mentor. Telling someone about your experience can make you feel less lonely. Talking about your feelings can also help lower your stress.

You can find support at your job too. Some workplaces have Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). These programs give free counseling and advice.

Human Resources (HR) can answer questions about your rights. They can also help you with problems at work. If you want, you can ask a trusted coworker to be with you in meetings or when you talk to your boss.

Write down what you want to say before you talk. This can help you feel more sure of yourself.

Many autistic people join support groups for help. These groups can meet in person or online. In a group, you can share your story and ask questions.

You can also learn from others who have faced the same problems. You can find groups through local autism organizations, social media, or websites like the Autism Society and Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN).

Here are some places where you can get support:

• Autism organizations: Autism Society, ASAN, Autism Speaks
• Disability rights groups: National Disability Rights Network, Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund
• Mental health services: Therapists, counselors, or psychologists who know about autism
• Online communities: Reddit, Facebook groups, Discord servers for autistic adults

You can use hotlines or chat services if you need help fast. Some groups give free and private support. Here is a table with some helpful contacts:

You deserve support and respect. Asking for help is a sign of strength. You can build a group of people who care about you.

When you connect with others, you can learn new ways to handle work problems. You can also help others by sharing your story.

Workplace Support

Getting help at work can help you do well. Many jobs now know autistic workers need different support. You can ask for changes that make your job easier. These changes can also help you feel safe and happy.

Adjustments

Flexible Work

Flexible work can really help you. Some people work better at certain times. You might need a schedule that matches your energy. Working from home or having flexible hours can lower stress.

• Flexible schedules let you work when you focus best.
• You can take breaks if you need to rest.
• Some jobs let you work from home to avoid too much noise.

Flexible work lets you use your time and energy well. You do your best when your schedule fits your needs.

Communication Support

Clear communication helps you know what to do at work. Many autistic people like written steps or pictures. You can ask your boss or coworkers to use these tools.

• Written steps help you remember what to do.
• Pictures or charts help you stay organized.
• Knowing about changes early helps you get ready.
• Simple words make things less confusing.

You can ask for the kind of communication you need. Good communication helps everyone work together.

Sensory Needs

Workplaces can be loud, bright, or have strong smells. These things can be hard for autistic people. You can ask for changes to make your space better.

• Headphones block loud sounds.
• Quiet rooms help you focus and feel calm.
• Lights and temperature you can change help with comfort.
• Routines help you know what to expect and feel less stress.

Small changes in your space can help you feel much better at work.

Finding Allies

Allies are people at work who support you. They help you feel welcome. You can find allies by talking and sharing your needs. Here are some ways to connect:

• Learn about autism and share what you know.
• Ask coworkers how they want to be called and respect that.
• You know your own needs best.
• Use clear and simple words. Do not use confusing language.

Allies help make work safe and friendly. They listen, stand up for you, and help others learn about autism.

Allies can make work easier for you. You do not have to face problems alone.

Resources

You can use many tools and groups to help at work. These give advice, support, and information.

• Learn about your rights under the ADA and local laws.
• The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) gives tips on job changes.
• Mentra and Hire Autism help you find jobs and support.
• Autism groups and online communities connect you with others who understand.

Knowing where to get help makes you feel strong. You can use these resources to speak up and do well at work.

Inclusive Workplaces

Making a workplace inclusive helps everyone do well. You can help make a place where autistic workers feel safe and respected. There are three main parts to an inclusive workplace: training, policies, and communication.

Training

Training teaches teams about neurodiversity and autism. These lessons help people understand and respect each other. When you learn about autistic strengths, you see what they can do. Training also helps everyone work together better.

There are many kinds of training. Some companies use real stories and group activities. These help you learn what autistic coworkers need.

When everyone joins in, the workplace feels more welcoming. Companies with these programs often see better work and happier teams.

Training works best when everyone learns together.

Policies

Workplace policies are rules for how people treat each other. Good rules help autistic workers do their best. You can use set routines, planned breaks, and clear goals to lower stress. Sharing meeting plans before meetings helps everyone get ready.

• All workers must take autism awareness training
• Daily routines and set break times
• Clear goals for each day to help manage time
• Meeting plans shared early
• Quiet rooms or private spaces for focus
• Reviews that help workers grow
• Tools to help teams talk and work together
• Groups and mentors for support

You can also set goals to hire more neurodivergent workers. Talking often and clearly helps everyone trust each other. When you give structure, autistic workers feel more at ease and ready to work.

Clear routines and rules help everyone feel safe at work.

Communication

Good communication is very important for an inclusive workplace. You can help by using simple words and sharing information in many ways. Changing how you talk to fit autistic workers’ needs makes things easier for all.

• Work with neurodiverse workers and trained helpers to find the best ways to hire and support staff.
• Use programs like Workplace Inclusion Now (WIN) to learn about diversity.
• Make training with advice from autistic adults to help with hiring.
• Change interviews to lower stress and show real skills.
• Teach others about autism challenges to make a caring workplace.

When you know what autistic workers go through, you can help make work better for them. Everyone does better when there is good communication and respect.

Clear and kind communication helps all workers feel included and valued.

Empowerment

Self-Advocacy

You have the power to speak up for yourself at work. Self-advocacy means you ask for what you need and explain your strengths. You can use many strategies to help you face workplace challenges. Here are some ways to practice self-advocacy:

• Speak up for yourself when you need support.
• Ask for changes or tools that help you do your job.
• Negotiate for your needs with your boss or team.
• Know your rights and responsibilities at work.
• Use resources like guides, support groups, or legal help.
• Explain your disability in ways that feel comfortable to you.
• Learn to ask for help when you need it.
• Identify obstacles and seek assistance from others.

You can also build your self-advocacy skills by understanding yourself better. Try these steps:

1. Identify your strengths and interests to boost your confidence.
2. Create a sensory profile to explain what helps you focus.
3. Understand your learning style so you can ask for the right accommodations.
4. Develop words to express your feelings and needs.
5. Learn about disability rights to advocate for yourself.

When you know your strengths and needs, you can ask for support and make your workplace better for you.

Building Confidence

Confidence helps you feel strong and ready to face challenges. You can build confidence by practicing social skills and focusing on what you do well.

A safe and supportive environment lets you try new things without fear. You can use these methods to grow your confidence:

• Practice social skills in a safe space.
• Get clear instruction on social norms and expectations.
• Join speech therapy or social skills groups to improve communication.
• Receive praise and encouragement from others.
• Focus on your strengths and interests.
• Take part in structured activities, such as drama classes, to practice new skills.

The SPELL framework shows that clear routines and visual supports help lower anxiety. When you know what to expect, you feel more comfortable and ready to succeed.

You can thrive when you feel supported and know your strengths.

Supporting Others

You can help other autistic people by sharing your story and offering support. When you stand up for yourself, you inspire others to do the same.

You can join support groups, mentor new employees, or simply listen to someone who needs help. Here are ways to support others:

• Share tips and resources with coworkers.
• Encourage others to speak up for their needs.
• Offer to be an ally or mentor.
• Listen and show understanding when someone shares their experience.
• Celebrate each person’s strengths and achievements.

When you support others, you help build a workplace where everyone feels safe and respected. Your actions can make a big difference for your team and your community.

You have learned how job discrimination affects autistic people at work. Knowing your rights helps you stand up for yourself. Support from others can make a big difference.

You are not alone. Many people want to help you succeed.

• Reach out for help if you need it.
• Share this information with others.
• Speak up for yourself and others.

Stay strong and keep moving forward.

FAQ

What should you do if you feel discriminated against at work?

Write down what happened to you. Tell someone you trust about it. Report the problem to your boss or human resources. You can also ask the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) for help.

Can you ask for job adjustments if you are autistic?

Yes, you can ask for reasonable adjustments. The law says you have the right to ask for changes that help you work. Some examples are flexible hours, quiet spaces, or written instructions.

How do you know if your workplace is inclusive?

Check if there are clear rules and autism training. See if all workers get support. Inclusive workplaces listen to your needs and respect differences. You should feel safe and important.

What are some common signs of job discrimination?

• You are treated unfairly because of your autism.
• You do not get the support you need.
• Coworkers bully you or leave you out.
• You do not get promotions or raises for unfair reasons.

Who can help you if you face discrimination?

You can talk to:

• Human Resources
• Disability rights groups
• Support groups like the Autism Society
• Trusted coworkers or mentors

Is masking at work harmful?

Masking can make you feel tired or stressed. Hiding who you are can hurt your mental health. You should work in a place where you feel safe being yourself.

What rights protect you as an autistic worker?

A table for quick reference: