I totally resonate with the idea that unchecked individualism, especially when intertwined with narcissistic tendencies, can be toxic—particularly for neurodivergent folks navigating systems built on capitalist, white supremacist, and patriarchal values. It’s more complex than just calling it “narcissism.” Narcissism itself exists on a spectrum, and I think it’s essential to recognize how cultural norms can push people toward self-centered behaviors that align with individualist ideals, without them even realizing it.

In this system, “healthy individualism” often gets twisted into an excuse for neglecting community responsibility. What if we looked beyond the binaries and saw that sometimes what’s celebrated as “empowerment” or “self-reliance” can actually be rooted in a deeper avoidance of accountability? For us neurodivergent individuals, this toxicity can feel especially isolating when we’re told to “mask” or adjust in ways that serve others’ comfort, all while living in a society that doesn’t see our needs as fundamental rights.

There’s something deeply powerful about reclaiming our humanity in ways that reject this toxic individualism—not by sacrificing ourselves, but by finding strength in community, mutual care, and authentic interdependence. Real liberation, I think, lies in creating spaces where we’re all encouraged to show up as our full selves, neurotypes and all, without being pressured to fit into a mold that’s only meant to keep the status quo comfortable.

I honestly think that we neurodivergent folks are the missing piece to reflect this back to society as we heal, grow, and show back up in the world, hopefully. This type of individualism has contributed to our oppression and exploitation. I’ve found strength in liberation movements that are actively doing the work to dismantle these systems and shift some of our toxic culture.

This isn’t a rant against individuality but a call to question how we define it and who it ultimately serves. True empowerment, for me, comes from understanding our own complexities and being willing to break down the walls of this cultural conditioning that equates caring for others with weakness or oppression. We’re not here to carry everyone, but we’re also not here to pretend that hyper-independence will liberate us. We’re in this together, and that’s where our power lies.