Pride Month and Neurodiversity: Celebrating LGBTQ2S+ Neurodivergent Voices
At Good Foot, we support neurodivergent adults in building meaningful, fulfilling lives. This Pride Month, we’re celebrating the rich and complex identities at the intersection of LGBTQ2S+ and neurodivergent experiences.
Pride is a time of joy, resistance, and visibility. It’s about celebrating who we are in all our fullness, and this of course includes the many people whose identities span more than one marginalized group. In June, we honour and uplift queer and trans neurodivergent people, whose stories are often overlooked, but who have always been a vital part of both the LGBTQ2S+ and neurodivergent communities.
The Intersection of Neurodivergence and LGBTQ2S+ Identity
Research out of the University of Cambridge notes that neurodivergent individuals are statistically more likely to identify as LGBTQ2S+. While this overlap is still being studied, lived experience tells us that many neurodivergent folks understand identity outside the “norm,” and are more comfortable questioning social expectations around gender and sexuality.
At the same time, being both neurodivergent and LGBTQ2S+ can come with layered challenges. These might include:
Being misunderstood or dismissed by professionals who are unfamiliar with neurodivergent communication styles or who make assumptions based on gender or sexuality.
Facing double discrimination in healthcare, education, and employment – where systems are often built for normative experiences and identities.
Experiencing isolation from both LGBTQ2S+ and neurodivergent spaces that don’t account for intersectionality.
Navigating higher rates of mental health struggles, including anxiety, depression, and trauma, often tied to chronic stigma and exclusion.
That’s why affirming both neurodivergent and LGBTQ2S+ identities is so important—especially when they intersect. When people are supported as their whole selves, they’re more likely to thrive in their workplaces, relationships, and communities. But meaningful support isn’t one-size-fits-all – it needs to reflect the specific needs and lived realities of those living at this intersection.
For example:
Gender and sexuality expression may look different for neurodivergent individuals. They might process or express identity in ways that don’t align with typical social scripts—and that’s valid. Support means honouring these expressions without expecting them to “fit” a neurotypical mold.
Communication preferences matter. Some neurodivergent LGBTQ2S+ folks may need extra time to process questions about identity, or to avoid high-sensory environments like Pride events. Inclusion means making space for a range of ways to connect, celebrate, and show up.
Masking takes a toll. Many neurodivergent LGBTQ2S+ people feel pressure to “mask” or hide core parts of themselves to feel safe. Truly inclusive spaces allow individuals to unmask – whether that means using stims freely, being out about their identity, or simply existing without explanation.
Affirming support, then, means adapting to layered realities. It means listening deeply, removing assumptions, and creating environments where people don’t have to choose between being understood neurologically or respected in their gender/sexuality – it means being fully seen.
Creating Inclusive, Intersectional Spaces
At Good Foot, we are committed to fostering inclusive spaces where neurodivergent LGBTQ2S+ adults feel:
Safe to unmask and be themselves.
Free to express gender and sexuality in ways that feel right for them.
Heard, respected, and included in decision-making processes.
Supported through programs that centre dignity, autonomy, and community care.
Whether it’s through employment training, workplace accommodations, or social programming, our approach is always rooted in respect for the full diversity of human minds and identities.
Learn More and Get Involved
Pride Month is a great time to reflect, learn, and take action. Here’s how you can join us in supporting neurodivergent LGBTQ2S+ people:
Read and share stories from queer and neurodivergent individuals.
Advocate for accessible, inclusive policies in your workplace or community.
Donate to or partner with organizations that serve LGBTQ2S+ and neurodivergent populations.
Examine your own spaces—are they welcoming to people of all identities?
Final Thoughts
This Pride Month, let’s move beyond rainbow logos and one-time celebrations. Let’s honour the deep and ongoing work of building a world where we can all live authentically and be treated with care.
Happy Pride from all of us at Good Foot!
