Workplace Accommodations Guide

    Practical adjustments for a neuro-inclusive work environment

    Karen Turner

    Somatic Trauma Informed Coach

    Neurodivergent adults (including those with ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, and Dyspraxia) often navigate workplaces designed for neurotypical nervous systems. Small, practical accommodations can significantly reduce tension, prevent burnout, and allow individuals to work in flow.

    It is also important to recognise that neurodivergence often presents with co-morbidities such as POTS (Postural Tachycardia Syndrome), Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), or MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome). These conditions can significantly contribute to physical fatigue and increase the sensory assault on the nervous system.

    Use this guide to explore adjustments that support your nervous system and enhance your working environment.

    1. Sensory Environment

    Lighting & Vision

    • Permission to use desk lamps instead of overhead fluorescent lights.
    • Anti-glare screen filters or blue light blocking glasses.
    • Seating away from bright windows or flickering light sources.

    Noise & Sound

    • Use of noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs.
    • Quiet zones or permission to work in a separate room when needed.
    • Seating away from high-traffic areas (kitchens, printers, main doors).

    2. Communication & Meetings

    Information Processing

    • Agendas provided at least 24 hours before meetings.
    • Written follow-ups summarizing key actions and decisions.
    • Clear, direct communication avoiding implied meaning or "reading between the lines".
    • For Dyslexia: extra time to read documents, or having someone physically sit down to go through instructions verbally.

    Meeting Formats

    • Permission to keep cameras off during video calls to reduce sensory fatigue.
    • Options to contribute via chat rather than speaking up in large groups.
    • Shorter, focused meetings with built-in breaks for longer sessions.

    3. Executive Function & Workflow

    Time & Task Management

    • Flexible working hours to align with natural energy peaks.
    • Body doubling (working quietly alongside someone else) for accountability.
    • Breaking large projects down into smaller, defined milestones with clear deadlines.

    Breaks & Regulation

    • Micro-breaks built into the schedule for somatic regulation (e.g., box breathing, stretching).
    • Extra breaks to manage fatigue, especially when navigating heavy cognitive or sensory loads.
    • Permission to move or fidget during meetings without judgement.
    • Uninterrupted focus blocks (e.g., "Do Not Disturb" mode) to prevent context-switching fatigue.

    4. Social & Culture

    Social Expectations

    • Opt-in social events without pressure or penalty for non-attendance.
    • Understanding that masking requires significant energy and unmasking is a sign of safety.

    Feedback & Support

    • Regular, predictable feedback loops.
    • Focusing on outcomes rather than the specific process used to achieve them.

    For more resources, visit karen-turner.com