In the high-pressure world of medicine, doctors and medical students often face challenges that extend beyond their clinical responsibilities. For those who identify as neurodiverse, the added layer of navigating social expectations and professional environments can make the journey even more complex. In recognition of these experiences, Doctors Manitoba offers a virtual peer support group specifically for neurodiverse physicians and medical students. Facilitated by Dr. Alexander Dibrov, this group provides a vital space for connection, understanding, and mutual support.

A Safe Space for Shared Experience

Doctors Manitoba’s slogan for peer support groups — ​“Connection is protection” — helps capture the essence of this initiative. Isolation can be psychosocially dangerous and for neurodiverse individuals, finding peers who truly understand their experiences is invaluable. This group not only combats isolation but also fosters a confidential and accepting environment where participants can be themselves without fear of judgement.

“The peer group is also an opportunity to connect in a safe and confidential setting that is accepting of vulnerability,” says Dr. Dibrov. ​“Group members support one another emotionally, exchange knowledge, share wisdom, and discuss ways of coping with the realities of medicine.” When someone shares something they are encountering, other members of the group may talk about what they have done in a similar situation. ​“They don’t have to repeat the same mistakes,” says Dr. Dibrov, reflecting on the difficult encounters he faced in his career.

Navigating Medicine as a Neurodivergent Professional

Dr. Dibrov, who openly identifies as being on the autism spectrum, understands firsthand the challenges of navigating the cultural norms of the medical profession. While medical training emphasizes interpersonal skills and teamwork, neurodiverse individuals often expend considerable effort on ​“masking,” or suppressing behaviours to conform to social expectations. This additional cognitive load can be exhausting and isolating.

Historically, the culture of medicine has not always been accommodating to neurodiversity. As medicine has become more team-based, there’s an expectation for everyone to fit in, sometimes at the expense of those who process their environment differently from the majority. 

The Power of Virtual Connection

While many peer support groups have moved online for convenience, the virtual format of this group serves an additional purpose of inclusivity. Participating via Zoom allows people to join in a way that minimizes discomfort and maximizes accessibility.

“The screen can provide a welcome technological barrier for participants with autism spectrum traits, and having a choice of location from which to join the video call can improve comfort and minimize disruption to routine.” 

Challenging Stereotypes, Embracing Strengths

Common misconceptions about neurodiverse individuals persist in the medical community. For example, fidgeting or engaging in background stimulation is often misinterpreted as a sign of distraction, when in fact, it can help maintain focus and manage anxiety. Likewise, the assumption that individuals with autism spectrum traits cannot become socially adept overlooks the reality that many learn social conventions with the same deliberation as learning a second language.

“Studying culture and interactions deliberately can lead to a more nuanced understanding of ​‘social grammar’” says Dr. Dibrov. 

Fostering an Inclusive Medical Culture

The key to creating a more inclusive and supportive medical environment lies in understanding and accommodating diverse needs. Simple considerations such as respecting different sensory and motor needs, allowing flexibility in communication styles, and recognizing the value of varied perspectives can make a significant impact.

By fostering a community where neurodiverse physicians and medical students can share their experiences without fear of judgment, this peer support group is helping to shape a more inclusive future for medicine. In doing so, it ensures that every physician has the opportunity to thrive.

For neurodiverse medical professionals seeking a space to connect and find support, this peer group provides a foundation for resilience, advocacy, and meaningful change.

Neurodiversity is not a precise concept. Being neurodivergent just means that your brain functions differently than that of most people. 

While ASD (autism spectrum disorder) and ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) are common diagnoses assigned to neurodivergent individuals, a formal diagnosis is not required to participate in the group. If the way you think or experience feelings sets you apart from others, you are welcome to attend! Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month. Learn more and register.