Rest Is Radical: Navigating Inauguration Uncertainty as a Neurodivergent Black Woman

Embracing Change: Navigating a New Inauguration as a Neurodivergent Black Woman

As another inauguration unfolds, many of us feel a swirling mix of hope, anxiety, and even disappointment. For those who identify as Black women—and especially those of us who are neurodivergent—these feelings can run particularly deep. At the intersection of race, gender, and neurodiversity, we’re often on the front lines of systemic shifts and policy changes, bearing the weight of historical inequities and ongoing stigmas around mental health. The uncertainty of a returning and often divisive leader, and a new, but likeminded administration, can intensify the emotional toll, as many of us wonder whether our unique concerns will be acknowledged or addressed.

Being a Black woman already comes with pressures to excel—despite fewer resources or clear pathways of support—and adding neurodivergence can compound those challenges. We may question how this new political chapter will impact our access to healthcare, equitable education, and community support. We also carry the burden of stereotypes that undermine our voices, making it harder to advocate for ourselves in spaces where neurodivergent needs aren’t widely understood. Seeing Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign gave me hope. Even among the tacky and demeaning jabs towards VP Harris (and Black women alike) indicating DEI hire as the sole qualification or reducing her career successes to that of sexual favors, there was newfound pride and hope in being a professional Black woman.

Still, that pride and hope endures. Recognizing the layers of stress these transitions bring allows us to process our emotions more compassionately. In embracing our differences—our distinct ways of processing, feeling, and communicating—we honor the strength that comes from our intersectional identities. It’s within that balance of acknowledging reality and holding onto hope that we find ways to forge ahead, uplift each other, and create change for ourselves and our communities.

The Weight of Disappointment

Disappointment can stem from witnessing promises made and broken, or from a history of seeing our communities’ needs overlooked. I am not going to lie; I took Vice President Harris’ defeat to heart. I was extremely disappointed, frustrated, enraged at some point, but not the least bit surprised. I shuffled through those feelings for about a day and then it was business as usual for me. You see, as a Black woman, I’ve wrestled with feeling dismissed or misunderstood in political, professional, and person spaces. When changes come that don’t reflect our hopes, it’s disheartening. It may feel like once again our perspectives are being lost in the shuffle. I’ve grown accustomed to accepting the sting of reality and just dissociating from it sometimes. It’s a lingering trauma response, yes, but it keeps me surviving.

Navigating the New Reality

1. Acknowledge Your Emotions
   Allow yourself to recognize the disappointment, anger, or confusion. Give these emotions space instead of ignoring them. Journaling, talking with a trusted friend, or even setting aside quiet time to think can provide healthy outlets.

2. Find Community and Solidarity
   We thrive when we’re supported by people who see and accept us. Seek out or create safe spaces where you can connect with others who understand your lived experiences. This might be a local advocacy group, an online support community, or a gathering of like-minded friends.

3. Practice Intentional Self-Care
   Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and face masks (though those can help!); it also includes taking off the mask (embracing your authenticity), setting boundaries, saying “no” when you need to, and making time for rest. As neurodivergent folks, we might need more downtime to process the sensory overload of life—especially during high-stress times like a political transition.

4. Keep Kindness at the Center
   The uncertainty of a new administration can heighten tensions and conflicts. Practice kindness, both outwardly and inwardly. Extend empathy to those around you—even when you disagree—and don’t forget to extend it to yourself. Mistakes, imperfections, and detours are part of being human.

Special Encouragement for Black Women

Although this blog site is inclusive to all people, I want to take a personal moment to address black women. I know it hurt. I know that we have historically been unrecognized heroes. Black women have always been at the forefront of change, juggling immense pressures and expectations. We’re expected to be strong, to push forward, and to care for everyone else’s needs. But remember: REST IS YOUR RIGHT. In a world that often forgets to pour back into you, give yourself permission to pause. Reclaiming your rest is a radical form of self-preservation that honors the communities you serve by ensuring you have the capacity to lead, advocate, or simply be.

Moving Forward

Whether this new administration brings relief, worry, or a mixture of both, know that your feelings are valid. Continue to prioritize your mental health, lean into the support of those who “get” you, and give yourself room to breathe. It’s in these tender, caring spaces that true resilience grows.

Here’s to embracing kindness, prioritizing self-care, and carving out rest for us—especially for Black women—amid the uncertainty of a new era. You deserve it. And remember, you are not alone in this journey. We rise, together.