Episodes
-
"Don't worry. Everyone is a little Autistic".
In this episode we delve into the complexities that come from Neurotypicals saying the wrong thing to us, especially Autistic, ADHD or AuDHD people. We discuss the harmful nature of functioning labels, the need for updated language around the disabling sides of neurodivergence and for greater understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity in society as a whole.
Takeaways
Being neurodivergent is a unique experience that deserves understanding.Misconceptions about autism and ADHD can be harmful and diminish individual experiences.Functioning labels are often misleading and can hinder support for those in need.It's important to educate others about neurodiversity to foster understanding.The struggles of ADHD are often oversimplified and misunderstood.Misconceptions about autism often diminish individual experiences.Support is not special treatment; it's necessary help.SPONSER: Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Support the show with our merch! Get our t-shirts and hoodies at https://www.dollysdaydreamscheshire.co.uk/the-neurodivergent-experience
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
Extreme Demand Avoidance is the new, rebranded term for what used to be Pathological Demand Avoidance. It is not recognised by the NHS yet so many Neurodivergent people struggling with navigating its demands. After this episode its pretty clear we do too!
In this super sized episode, along with guest Ashley Bentley, we delve into the complexities of extreme demand avoidance in neurodivergent adults by taking a screening test to see how much we are effected by EDA or PDA and how it is different for Men and Women. We discuss how we have used the creation of fantasy worlds as a coping mechanism, how we navigate and can be guilty of several dynamics of manipulation in relationships, the complexities of keeping up your reputation, and the impact of 'outrageous' behaviour and emotional responses that are often misdiagnosed as a 'tantrum' on our lives.
https://embrace-autism.com/eda-qa/
Takeaways
Extreme demand avoidance can lead to internal conflict about wanting to do things.Mimicking others can be a natural response to social situations.Demand avoidance can significantly impact behaviour and relationships.Creating fantasy worlds can serve as a coping mechanism for stress.Manipulation in relationships can be unintentional and rooted in self-preservation.Meltdowns can occur under pressure and are often a release of built-up stress and emotions which are often misunderstood. Emotional responses can vary greatly, from crying to anger.Ashley Bentley: Hypnotherapist, Coach & Breathwork Practitioner, Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy
Email: [email protected]
Web: https://www.integrativeiom.co.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IntegrativeIOM
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/integrativeiom/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@integrativehypnotherapy
Insight Timer: https://insighttimer.com/AshleyBentley
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Get our t-shirts and hoodies at https://www.dollysdaydreamscheshire.co.uk/the-neurodivergent-experience
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
Missing episodes?
-
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, we discuss the impact of current events on our well-being as life seems to be getting in our way at the moment!
We answer one of your questions and chat about the challenges of navigating outdated perceptions of autism. We talk the significance of understanding autism as a spectrum of experiences rather than a singular definition, and trying to encourage engagement with each other and share resources that promote neurodiversity in a positive way.
We talk neurodivergent identities, the impact of community support, the need to challenge negative narratives surrounding autism, and the responsibility of individuals to advocate for themselves and others.
We have to share the positive aspects of being neurodivergent and show how important it is to education those around in the hope of fostering understanding!
Takeaways
Social media platforms can hinder genuine connection.Conversations about autism can be challenging but necessary as outdated views on autism persist in many families.Personal experiences shape our understanding of neurodiversity.Advocacy is about helping others and sharing knowledge. Being autistic can be a source of pride and strength.Understanding and acceptance from family and community are crucial as the way autistic individuals are treated is often the real issue.Community support can significantly improve the lives of neurodivergent individuals.Education and open conversations can help dispel myths about autism.It's important to challenge negative narratives surrounding neurodiversity.Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Get our t-shirts and hoodies at https://www.dollysdaydreamscheshire.co.uk/the-neurodivergent-experience
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode we discuss the educational system in the UK from the perspective of an autistic teacher. Mandy Cook is an influential figure in Autism on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok as The Autistic Teacher with over 100,000 followers on Facebook, sharing information and insights to a wider audience. Mandy is a teacher, speaker, trainer and consultant in autism with over 20 years experience working with Autistic children and adults.
She shares her journey as an autistic teacher and how her personal experiences have shaped her approach to education, the need for neurodivergent-friendly environments and the importance of inclusivity in education for neurodivergent children and the benefits it brings to all students.
The conversation explores the current state of inclusivity in schools, the challenges faced by neurodivergent children, and the misconceptions surrounding school refusal.
Takeaways
Teachers often receive undue blame for systemic issues.Personal experiences can greatly influence teaching methods.Inclusivity in classrooms benefits all students, not just neurodivergent ones.Neurodivergent training from neurodivergent teachers is essential.School refusal often stems from fear, not laziness.Standardized tests do not accurately reflect a child's potential.Mandy's Website: https://www.autisticteacher.co.uk/
Mandy's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/autisticteach/
Mandy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_autistic_teacher_/
Charity: https://www.autismsoutheast.co.uk/
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Get our t-shirts and hoodies at https://www.dollysdaydreamscheshire.co.uk/the-neurodivergent-experience
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, we delve into various official neurodivergent diagnostic screening tests! So many people begin their autism diagnostic journey by taking a test similar to the AQ-10 test. These questionnaires play a key role for parents, care givers and the large percentage of the population who are yet to understand their neurodivergent brains, to get a diagnosis, but how accurate are these screening tests and are the tools they use to diagnose still fit for purpose? We take three tests that cover autism, ADHD and masking to see how we score and whether we think the screening tools are as accurate in recognising neurodivergent traits as they should be.
Follow along and let us know how you scored!
Autism: https://embrace-autism.com/aq-10/
ADHD: https://embrace-autism.com/asrs-5/#test
Masking or Camouflaging: https://embrace-autism.com/cat-q/#test
Takeaways
Mimicry can be a tool for learning social skills.Expectations from others can influence how we present ourselves.It's important to find a balance between being authentic and meeting social norms. Social interactions can be challenging for many individuals.The concept of 'normal' is subjective and varies for everyone.It's important to find ways to relax and unwind effectively.Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Get our t-shirts and hoodies at https://www.dollysdaydreamscheshire.co.uk/the-neurodivergent-experience
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss the complexities of anger. Joined by hypnotherapist Ashley Bentley, we explore the importance of therapy, delve into personal experiences with coping mechanisms, the impact of childhood trauma on adult life, the challenges of adulting, and the influence of social media on self-image, self-compassion, and mindfulness in managing emotions.
Takeaways
Anger is a natural emotion that needs to be managed.Self-compassion is crucial in navigating feelings of anger and shame.Neurodivergent individuals often experience heightened emotions and sensitivities.It's important to recognize that others' behaviours often reflect their own issues, not ours.Adulting can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of inadequacy and anger.Healing is a continuous journey that requires effort and self-awareness.Ashley Bentley: Hypnotherapist, Coach & Breathwork Practitioner, Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy
Email: [email protected]
Web: https://www.integrativeiom.co.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IntegrativeIOM
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/integrativeiom/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@integrativehypnotherapy
Insight Timer: https://insighttimer.com/AshleyBentley
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Get our t-shirts and hoodies at https://www.dollysdaydreamscheshire.co.uk/the-neurodivergent-experience
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, we engage in a deep conversation with Anthony Harding, a nurse associate in the NHS, about the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals within the healthcare system. We discuss Anthony's personal journey, the lack of understanding and training regarding neurodivergence among medical professionals, and the importance of accommodations for neurodivergent staff. Anthony shares why the need for greater awareness and advocacy for neurodivergent individuals in healthcare settings, and that Neurodivergent Medical professionals bringing unique perspectives can greatly enhance patient care.
Takeaways
The NHS has significant gaps in understanding neurodivergence and Anthony's journey in the NHS highlights systemic issues.Accommodations for neurodivergent medical staff are often insufficient.Advocacy is crucial for improving conditions for neurodivergent workers.Personal experiences can inform better practices in healthcare as Neurodivergent healthcare workers can provide unique insights into Neurodivergent patients.You can follow Anthony's story here:
The Unmasking Man Documentary: https://youtu.be/OLe64sAw2Wo?si=j97FKw4881Os2ooNursing Times Article: https://www.nursingtimes.net/opinion/aged-40-i-was-formally-diagnosed-with-autism-dyslexia-and-dyspraxia-03-05-2023/Our country music playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3HuygG6S4QSHFG8iJNQ8cL?si=b2grJEzyRsapSrPxc0If6g&pi=4_mAHfjPTH24l
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Get our t-shirts and hoodies at https://www.dollysdaydreamscheshire.co.uk/the-neurodivergent-experience
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, we delve into the complexities of materialism, exploring its good, bad, and ugly sides. We discuss our personal experiences with collecting, the dopamine rush associated with purchases, the emotional and psychological aspects of materialism and the societal pressures that influence consumer behaviour.
Takeaways
Collecting can be a way to commemorate personal interests and milestones.Materialism can lead to clutter and a sense of overwhelm.Personal happiness does not always correlate with material possessions.The importance of buying for oneself rather than for others' approval.True happiness comes from within, not from possessions.Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Get our t-shirts and hoodies at https://www.dollysdaydreamscheshire.co.uk/the-neurodivergent-experience
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, we reflect on our first live show at the Autistic Minds Live event in Cardiff. We talk meeting our fans, the challenges of social interactions, the concept of energy hangovers, the challenges of being in a complex environment and the emotional weight of being advocates for the neurodivergent community.
Takeaways
Social interactions can lead to energy depletion, known as energy hangovers.Personal accommodations are essential for managing energy levels.Different individuals experience energy differently after social events.Finding joy in personal interests can help replenish energy.Boredom can significantly impact energy levels and motivation.Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Buy our merch: https://www.dollysdaydreamscheshire.co.uk/the-neurodivergent-experience
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience we discuss our Autism and ADHD based on the diagnostic criteria. We discuss our experiences with routine, craving novelty, and the dopamine fixation we both share. We touch on the challenges of seeming blunt, rude, or not interested in others without meaning to, the ability to listen, carry out instructions, and stay focused and the importance of being honest and upfront about one's interests.
Takeaways
Autism and ADHD are neurodivergent conditions that can coexist in individuals.Understanding and accepting neurodiversity is crucial for creating an inclusive society.People with autism and ADHD may have different experiences and challenges in social interactions and making friends.The diagnostic criteria for autism and ADHD are based on behaviours and can vary from person to person.Sensitivities and disabilities are part of the neurodivergent experience and should be understood and embraced.Our first live show at Autistic Minds Live 2024 Cardiff is fast approaching! It is the Premier FREE to attend event for and by the autistic community. To book your FREE tickets, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/.../autistic-minds-live...
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
This episode dedicated to Steve Silberman, the legendary writer, advocate for the neurodivergent community and friend of the show who recently passed away, aged 66.
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, we discuss living with sensory issues. We share our personal experiences of hypersensitivity to certain sounds and the challenges of misophonia, the difficulty of asking for accommodations, our experiences with dogs and the need for personal space, as well as the importance of understanding and respecting others' boundaries. We also touch on the topic of children and the difficulties of parenting while managing sensory triggers.
Takeaways
Sensory issues can have a significant impact on the lives of neurodivergent individualsMisophonia, a condition characterized by a strong aversion to certain sounds, can be particularly challengingAccommodations and understanding are crucial in supporting individuals with sensory issues and should be a two-way street, considering the needs of both the individual and those around them.Engaging in thoughtful and respectful discussions about accommodations can lead to better understanding and empathy.Social media can be a platform for both positive and negative interactions, and it's important to consider the impact of our words before posting.Our first live show at Autistic Minds Live 2024 Cardiff is fast approaching! It is the Premier FREE to attend event for and by the autistic community. To book your FREE tickets, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/.../autistic-minds-live...
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode, we discuss our experiences living with alexithymia and dyspraxia. We talk about the challenges of expressing emotions due to alexithymia and how it affects our ability to communicate how we are feeling and what accommodations we need to feel comfortable. Plus we discuss our Dyspraxia and how it can affect coordination and communication, can lead to challenges in everyday tasks and leaves you with random bruises!
Takeaways
Alexithymia can make it challenging to communicate and be sincere in personal interactions.The experiences of neurodivergent individuals can vary, and it's important to respect and understand these differences.Alexithymia and dyspraxia are lifelong conditions that can be managed but need to be recognised by everyone as disabilities.Having a diagnosis can provide solace and understanding, and it's important to recognize and accept one's neurodivergent traits.Spelling can be challenging for individuals with dyslexia, and it's important to focus on understanding the message rather than nit-picking spelling errors.Our first live show at Autistic Minds Live 2024 Cardiff is fast approaching! It is the Premier FREE to attend event for and by the autistic community. To book your FREE tickets, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/.../autistic-minds-live...
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode, we are in the same room for the very first time on this podcast, so we're bringing you a preview of our live show in Cardiff! Many Neurodivergent people struggle with impulse control and addiction, something we have both struggled with throughout our journeys. We share our personal experiences with addiction to phones and social media, food, video games, plus we talk the need for balance and self-awareness when it comes to addictive behaviours and the dangers of Neurodivergent people chasing the buzz of a dopamine high through narcotics.
Takeaways
The need for dopamine and the desire for instant gratification can contribute to addictive behaviours.Co-dependency in relationships can be both healthy and unhealthy, depending on the individuals involved.Finding a balance and practicing self-awareness are important in managing addictive behaviours.It's important to be aware of one's own addictive tendencies and seek help if needed.Our first live show at Autistic Minds Live 2024 Cardiff is fast approaching! It is the Premier FREE to attend event for and by the autistic community. To book your FREE tickets, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/.../autistic-minds-live...
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience podcast, Jordan flies solo as he is joined by Nadine Honeybone and Raj Chand to discuss the importance of autism-led charities and their upcoming live event, Autistic Minds Cardiff. Nadine shares her motivation for creating the charity, her personal experiences as a parent of a nonverbal autistic child and the challenges she faced in raising her son Thomas. Raj Chand, who is an Autistic Business owner, talks about the need for neurodivergent voices to be heard and respected, the necessity for autistic charities run by autistic people and the importance of creating inclusive spaces and opportunities for neurodivergent individuals to thrive in a neurotypical world.
Takeaways
Autistic Minds UK is an autism-led charity that provides resources and support for the autistic community.Employment opportunities for neurodivergent individuals are crucial for promoting inclusion and allowing them to lead fulfilling lives. Neurodivergent voices should be heard and respected, and their experiences should inform decision-making processes.Support, resources, and inspiration are crucial for the neurodivergent community to navigate and succeed in society.Our first live show at Autistic Minds Live 2024 Cardiff is fast approaching! It is the Premier FREE to attend event for and by the autistic community. To book your FREE tickets, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/.../autistic-minds-live...
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode, we are joined by Matt Jolly, the Operations Director at RTN Diagnostics, to discuss the topic of getting diagnosed and whether going private is worth it. We share our personal experiences with the diagnostic process and highlight the challenges we faced within the NHS system in the UK and why we had to go private. Matt shares his personal journey of getting his family diagnosed, the positive effects it had on his family and why he now works in the business of diagnosis with RTN diagnostics. We talk the importance of early intervention and the positive impact that a diagnosis can have on individuals and their families and the right to choose, which allows individuals to choose alternative providers for assessments if the NHS waiting times are too long.
Takeaways
Getting a diagnosis can provide a sense of peace and understanding about oneself and can help individuals and their families navigate challenges more effectively.Private assessments can offer faster and more comprehensive evaluations compared to the NHS, but cost can be a barrier for some individuals.The current NHS system often falls short in providing timely and adequate support for neurodivergent individuals and their families.Improving training and awareness about neurodiversity among healthcare professionals and educators is crucial to ensure better support for neurodivergent individuals. RTN provides aftercare and support to individuals after the assessment process, going beyond the diagnostic criteria.The right to choose allows individuals to choose alternative providers for assessments if the NHS waiting times are too long.Our first live show at Autistic Minds Live 2024 Cardiff is fast approaching! It is the Premier FREE to attend event for and by the autistic community. To book your FREE tickets, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/.../autistic-minds-live...
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode, we discuss the challenges of changing schools for neurodivergent individuals. . We start by reading an email from a listener who is a parent who is struggling to find a school that understands and supports their neurodivergent child. We share our personal experiences of moving schools and the difficulties we faced, including bullying, the need to mask their true selves and the frustration with the lack of training and understanding among teachers and school administrators. The conversation explores the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the education system and the need for better support and understanding, the importance of teachers who go the extra mile and the need for schools to be more inclusive and accommodating and the decision of home schooling, and the pros and cons associated with it.
Takeaways
Changing schools can be a challenging experience for neurodivergent individuals, often leading to feelings of isolation and the need to mask their true selves.Many neurodivergent students face bullying and mistreatment in schools, which can have long-lasting effects on their mental health and well-being.The education system often lacks proper training and understanding of neurodivergent needs, leading to a lack of support and inclusion for these students.Parents of neurodivergent children often struggle to find schools that are willing to listen and accommodate their child's unique needs.Home schooling can be a viable option for some neurodivergent individuals, but it comes with its own challenges and considerations.Our first live show at Autistic Minds Live 2024 Cardiff is fast approaching! It is the Premier FREE to attend event for and by the autistic community. To book your FREE tickets, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/.../autistic-minds-live...
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode, we discuss living with pathological demand avoidance (PDA), a condition that is not officially recognized by most authorities. We share personal experiences and examples of how demand avoidance affects our daily lives, including struggles with completing tasks, seeking medical help, and pursuing hobbies. We reflect on the impact of demand avoidance on mental health and relationships, the lack of recognition and understanding of the condition, and how it can both help and hinder us in different aspects of our lives.
Takeaways
Living with demand avoidance can have a significant impact on various aspects of life, including work, relationships, and personal well-being.Demand avoidance is not laziness or procrastination due to anxiety, but a genuine struggle to overcome barriers in the mind.The lack of official recognition and understanding of demand avoidance can lead to frustration and a lack of support from others.It is important to listen to and validate the experiences of individuals with demand avoidance, as their struggles are real and valid. Neurodivergent individuals often face challenges in receiving support and understanding for their mental health needs.The lack of recognition and misdiagnosis of neurodivergent conditions can have a negative impact on individuals' well-being.Our first live show at Autistic Minds Live 2024 Cardiff is fast approaching! It is the Premier FREE to attend event for and by the autistic community. To book your FREE tickets, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/.../autistic-minds-live...
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience Podcast, we talk about how we switch their brains off when it all gets a bit too much!
We talk about the importance of music in our lives and our love for video games, TV shows, movies, and how they use them as a form of escapism and to switch off their brains. We talk using music and soundproof headphones to balance our moods, stimulate our minds, and find peace. We talk about the role of video games in providing escapism and allowing us to immerse ourselves in different worlds as tools for relaxation and self-expression. Plus we talk the importance of not judging others' interests and finding joy in familiar, the benefits of online gaming for socializing and the challenges of balancing screen time.
Takeaways
Engaging in activities that stimulate the mind, such as listening to music or playing video games, can help switch off the brain and provide a sense of relaxation.Finding moments of happiness and appreciating them can be challenging for neurodivergent individuals, but music and gaming can help create those moments. Online gaming can be a valuable form of socializing, especially for neurodivergent individuals.Balancing screen time and understanding its impact is crucial, especially for Neurodivergent children.Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan is back from Canada and Simon has just turned 30! We talk our travels, big birthdays and the challenges of obtaining ADHD medication. We share our personal experiences with the medication methylphenidate and how it has helped manage the more disabling sides of our Neurodivergence, the lack of understanding and support from healthcare professionals, and why people should treat ADHD as a life long condition. We cover how we use stimulants like caffeine, exercise and how medication affects our brains and provide relief from the more challenging aspects of ADHD.
Takeaways
ADHD medication can be life-changing for Neurodivergent individuals, helping them manage their symptoms as it can improve their quality of life and reduce the risk of accidents and premature deaths.The process of obtaining ADHD medication can be challenging, with issues such as limited availability, brand preferences, and difficulty in accessing the correct dosage.Healthcare professionals should have a comprehensive understanding of both ADHD and autism to provide appropriate support and treatment.There is a need for a more holistic approach to neurodivergent conditions, where individuals are assessed for their specific difficulties and abilities rather than being categorized into separate diagnoses.The current system of managing ADHD medication is often frustrating and lacks empathy and understanding for the needs of neurodivergent individuals.Mindfulness can be a helpful tool for managing ADHD symptoms, but it may need to be adapted to suit individual needs and preferences.Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
"One of the key disability sides of my hyper focus is that I can hyper focus on things that I don't like and can be quite distressing to think about."
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss neurodivergent abilities versus disabilities. We share personal experiences and insights into how hyper-focus and tree learning, anxiety, and eidetic memory are both abilities and disabilities. We talk about difficulties processing empathy, deep emotions and how these impact their lives, plus our experiences with exceptional memories and how it can be both a gift and a burden.
Takeaways
Hyper-focus and tree learning are common traits in neurodivergent individuals, allowing them to deeply explore and understand specific subjects.Anxiety can be both helpful and disabling, providing heightened awareness but also causing distress and physical symptoms.Eidetic memory, or the ability to recall detailed sensory information, can be both a gift and a burden, impacting daily experiences and emotional well-being. Hyper-empathy allows for deep connections with others but can also be disabling.Navigating neurodivergent experiences requires patience and not settling for less.Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Show more
