Social Media And The Neurodiversity Trap

Have you ever felt that social media gives you a quick buzz but then leaves you spinning? This episode of the Truth About Dyslexia podcast explores exactly why that happens, especially for those of us with ADHD or dyslexia. Our chat reveals how social media can be a huge motivator at times, yet it can also lead to burnout, confusion, and even a skewed view of reality.

We looked at common misconceptions about ADHD and dyslexia that often pop up online. We also explored how targeted algorithms trap us in echo chambers. Even if it feels like your news feed is all about ADHD or dyslexia, it doesn’t mean the whole world sees things the same way. It’s just social media’s way of deciding what it thinks you want to watch.

The Power and Pitfalls of Social Media

For many of us, social media is a quick way to scratch that itch we get when we crave distraction. It can provide a sense of belonging—especially when we find like-minded people who’ve had similar experiences with learning difficulties. On the flip side, social media can push some damaging ideas.

Some folks will say ADHD or dyslexia can be “cured” overnight or that it’s just laziness. Others share advice that can make you feel broken if none of it works for you. The constant barrage of tips, memes, and personal stories can be more overwhelming than helpful if you don’t take a step back.

“Social media can be a blessing or a curse for people with ADHD or dyslexia; it depends on how you use it.” – Stephen Martin

Echo Chambers and Misconceptions

Algorithms aim to show us more of what we already interact with. That can create an echo chamber where old myths about learning differences keep bouncing around. Before long, you might feel like everyone in the universe sees ADHD or dyslexia the same way. This is rarely true.

One major misconception is that ADHD or dyslexia are simple issues. In reality, it looks different for each person. Another is that there’s too much competition in certain fields, like if you want to become a life coach with dyslexia. If your feed keeps showing you a million dyslexia coaches, it can feel like the market is too full. In truth, you’ve just caught the attention of the algorithm.

The Dopamine Dilemma

We all know that feeling when a post takes off with a few likes and comments. For a moment, it feels fantastic. Then the high vanishes, leaving you wanting more. That dopamine hit can turn social media into a habit that’s hard to break, especially for ADHD brains that crave novelty.

This dopamine cycle can sabotage your motivation outside of social media. You might jump online for a few minutes of scrolling when you should be focusing on a more important task. Suddenly, an hour is gone, and you’re not feeling any better. It’s a vicious loop that many of us struggle with.

Making Conscious Choices

So how do we deal with it? One approach is to question why you’re using social media in the first place. Are you seeking genuine connection, or are you just bored? Sometimes it helps to set time limits or block certain sites during your working hours. Another idea is to follow only the pages and accounts that uplift you in a real way.

It’s also vital to remember that social media doesn’t show the whole truth. People usually share their highs, rarely their lows. If you’re seeing someone with dyslexia smashing life, that’s great, but it doesn’t mean they don’t have off days. We all do. Real life is messy, and that’s okay.

Actively looking for balance can help you avoid extremes. Maybe spend an afternoon reading a physical book about ADHD or dyslexia, or try an exercise routine that you’ve been meaning to do. Shift your mind away from the constant scroll. These small breaks can reel you back to what’s real and important.

• Try a simple “question check” before opening your social apps. Ask: “Why am I logging in right now?”
• Unfollow or mute accounts that leave you feeling worse.
• Remember that online advice is general. Tailor it to your own learning style.
• Schedule regular digital detoxes—30 minutes or more without apps.

Takeaways

• Social media can magnify challenges for neurodiverse people.
• Quick dopamine shots from likes and follows can reduce long-term motivation.
• Echo chambers lock us into repeating myths about ADHD and dyslexia.
• Not all online content is true or even helpful.
• Algorithms can trick us into believing a market is saturated when it isn’t.
• Self-awareness is a powerful tool against social media traps.
• Asking better questions leads to healthier choices.
• Be mindful of the difference between online personas and real-life behaviour.

Want to dive deeper into how social media affects people with ADHD and dyslexia? Listen to our full conversation at the top of this page. We share personal experiences, practical tips, and fresh perspectives. Whether you’re an occasional scroller or a social media junkie, you’ll pick up some ideas for making better choices. Give it a try and see what shifts in your daily life.

If you’d like even more support, visit truthaboutdyslexia.com or join our Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/adultdyslexia. We’d love to hear how you’re managing your own journey.