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Recognizing the Barriers: 2025 Neurodiversity at Work Survey Reveals Important Gaps in Employee Support

In a recent report by Understood.org, a prominent nonprofit dedicated to aiding the 70 million individuals in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences such as ADHD and dyslexia, alarming discrepancies have been unveiled regarding workplace support for neurodivergent employees. The findings from the annual Neurodiversity at Work Survey, which was conducted by The Harris Poll, underscore a pressing need for better understanding and accommodation of neurodivergent individuals in professional environments.

Rising Awareness but Persistent Stigma

The survey results indicate a growing recognition of neurodiversity issues among employed adults. Approximately 64% of respondents believe that conversations surrounding neurodivergence are becoming more commonplace. Notably, 74% of neurodivergent individuals feel that these discussions are more frequently taking place.

Furthermore, self-advocacy appears to be on the rise, with 30% of adults claiming they have requested workplace accommodations at some point, up from 25% in the previous year. Among neurodivergent individuals, this figure escalates to an impressive 51%. Regardless, the survey reflects significant barriers evidently still in place: 70% of U.S. adults acknowledge the stigma associated with asking for workplace accommodations, which increased from 60% in 2024. Similarly, 77% feel that neurodivergent employees often feel compelled to conform to neurotypical behaviors, a view shared by 82% of neurodivergent respondents themselves.

Deb Wilson, the Chief People and Culture Officer at Understood.org, articulates the emotional toll that 'masking' – the act of concealing one’s true self in the workplace – takes on neurodivergent employees, claiming, "This can be emotionally exhausting and often halts them from seeking vital support."

The Critical Need for Employer Education

Education is key, and when accommodations are appropriately provided, they significantly enhance the work experience for neurodivergent individuals. The survey reveals that 56% of employees who sought accommodations reported a positive transformation in their workplace interactions. Despite this, many neurodivergent adults express concerns over their employers’ efforts towards fostering genuinely inclusive environments. Nearly 64% of neurodivergent employees feel that revealing their conditions might adversely affect their careers.

Furthermore, more than half – 53% – of neurodivergent adults perceive neurodiversity programs as mere optics. A staggering 68% of employed neurodivergents lack clarity concerning which accommodations they are entitled to, and 51% do not even know whom to approach for assistance within their organizations.

A Complete Shift in Workplace Dynamics

As the landscape of workplaces continues to evolve amidst vast cultural and economic shifts, neurodivergent employees are finding themselves more apprehensive than ever. The survey shows that 67% of neurodivergent workers fear leaving their jobs due to uncertainty over future employment opportunities, compared to only 51% of their neurotypical counterparts. Additionally, 64% of all surveyed adults predict that obtaining necessary workplace accommodations will become more challenging in light of current rollbacks on initiatives for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

Nathan Friedman, Co-President and Chief Marketing Officer at Understood.org, stresses the urgency of prioritizing inclusivity, stating, "As inclusivity and accessibility face scrutiny, we must ensure that neurodivergent employees receive the support they need to thrive. Successfully implemented neurodiversity-friendly designs lead to enhanced collaboration and problem-solving throughout organizations."

For those interested in further resources regarding neurodiversity and workplace support, additional information can be found at u.org/work.

Methodology of the Survey

The survey was conducted online from April 10–14, 2025, encompassing 2,079 U.S. adults aged 18 and older. Out of this, 1,432 are employed, while 659 identify as neurodivergent, with 539 being both employed and neurodivergent. The Harris Poll's sampling precision guarantees an accuracy within +/- 2.5 percentage points, with a 95% confidence level.

About Understood.org

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming societal perspectives on learning and thinking differences. With a commitment to empowering individuals, Understood provides resources that help people navigate their unique challenges, bolster their confidence, and cultivate community support, aiming to create an environment where everyone can realize their fullest potential. For more insights, partnership opportunities, or donations, visit u.org/media and follow @UnderstoodOrg.