When “Normal” Hurts: How Neurodivergence Is Misunderstood by the Systems Meant to Support Us

Recently, I had an experience with a well-known meditation platform that sparked a deep, familiar fire in me — one that comes from years of advocating for those of us who live, love, and lead while neurodivergent.

The issue? An account associated with me was flagged and removed for what they deemed “artificially generated plays.” Their anti-fraud system detected that a particular track of mine had been played too frequently by an associated user — automatically, and repeatedly. According to their policy, this broke their rules and the decision was “final.”

But here’s the thing: that account belonged to a family member on the autism spectrum. A soul who finds grounding, calm, and clarity in repetition. A person for whom looping a single track over and over is not abuse of the system — it is the system that supports them. I even purchased the platform’s premium membership so they could access this feature effortlessly. And now, this deeply personal, deeply human act has been labeled as fraud.

Let’s pause there.

What happens when a system meant for healing penalizes the very people who need it most?

As someone who educates others on neurodivergence, this moment is more than personal — it’s a reflection of a much bigger issue. Our world is still profoundly built for the neurotypical. Algorithms measure behavior, not context. “Normal usage” is defined by the majority, while anything outside that norm is flagged, punished, or erased. Even on wellness platforms.

And that’s where I draw the line.

Loving someone with autism means understanding their rhythms. It means recognizing that repetition is not only natural — it’s nourishing. It’s a sacred part of how they process, regulate, and return to center. For some of us, pressing play again and again is not a strategy. It’s survival.

So when a system removes an account for this kind of behavior, it’s not just a technical issue — it’s a dismissal of neurodivergent reality. It’s a subtle form of ableism wrapped in digital policy.

Let me be clear: Neurodivergence Is Misunderstood

I’m not writing this for an apology or to reverse a decision. I’m writing this to illuminate the harm caused when platforms meant to support healing don’t build with all bodies and brains in mind.

If you offer features like autoplay or looping, don’t be surprised when neurodivergent users utilize them in the ways they were intended — just differently.

And if you say you support mindfulness, then support all minds. Not just the ones that behave predictably.

I will always stand for those whose needs are unseen by the systems around them. I will continue to teach, create, and offer spaces where neurodivergent beauty is not only accepted — it’s celebrated.

To those navigating this world with patterns, sensitivities, and sacred rituals of repetition: you are not broken. You are brilliant.

And to the platforms claiming to be spiritual, inclusive, or healing — may your systems evolve to meet the souls you say you serve. Neurodivergence is misunderstood, but it doesn't have to be.

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N.