What If They Hate It? Fear, Creativity, and Neurodivergence
Navigating RSD, Perfectionism, and Internalized Ableism as a Neurodivergent Artist
Before I became a therapist, I went to art school for video art. I was drawn to the medium because it allowed for disjointed timelines, fragmented narratives, texture, sound, metaphor—forms that felt more honest than linear storytelling. I made work that was deeply personal. But when it came time to share it, I’d freeze. I’d re-edit into oblivion, question my entire concept, or quietly decide it wasn’t “ready.”
Looking back, I wasn’t just nervous about critique—I was terrified of being seen. It’s not like that anymore for me, so I wanted to better understand what hard and what has been helpful.
Now, I work primarily with neurodivergent adults—especially AuDHDers (those who are both autistic and ADHD)—many of whom are deeply creative, even if they don’t always call themselves “artists.” What I see again and again is this push-pull: a deep desire to share something true, and a near-paralyzing fear of what might happen if they do.
Because for many neurodivergent creatives, making art isn’t just expression—it’s exposure. And being perceived is both a longing and a threat.