The Neurodivergent Experience – Détails, épisodes et analyse

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.

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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 individuals
• Misophonia, a condition characterized by a strong aversion to certain sounds, can be particularly challenging
• Accommodations 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.

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"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.

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'One of the worst things that happens to neurodivergent people is their ability to trust themselves and love themselves. Bullying can shape a person's identity and have a lasting impact'

In this episode, Jordan and Simon talk to Summer Farrelly, Animal Behaviourist and Autism Advocate on the topic of bullying. We share personal experiences of being bullied, including by teachers, and highlight the long-lasting impact it can have and have had on our lives. Summer emphasizes the need for teachers to be aware of their power and the effect their words and actions can have on students and the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment in schools to prevent bullying. We touch on the issue of trolls and the lack of accountability on social media and the need for empathy, understanding, and self-reflection in online interactions.

• Bullying can have a long-lasting impact on individuals, especially during their developmental stages.
• Teachers should be aware of their power and the effect their words and actions can have on students.
• Neurodivergent individuals often have common experiences of bullying and require greater understanding and support. Bullying can have long-lasting effects on self-esteem and body image.
• Finding a supportive community and unmasking around like-minded individuals can help build trust and self-acceptance.
• Online bullying is a prevalent issue, and many people lack accountability for their actions and words.

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.

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"We don't need a neurotypical saviour and a holistic saviour, whatever. We don't need you. We didn't ask you to save us. We need diversity and neurodiversity does serve this purpose."

In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott interview Lyric Rivera, a neurodiversity consultant and educator. Lyric shares their journey of self-discovery after being diagnosed as autistic and how it led them to create their Facebook page which now has 179,000 followers.

The conversation touches on the differences in perspectives and understanding of autism between countries, with the UK and Australia being more forward-thinking compared to the US, the harmful narratives and fear campaigns surrounding autism, the dangers of seeking to eradicate or 'correct' autism, the different rules and regulations regarding neurodivergence in the workplace in different states in the US and emphasizes the importance of including autistic individuals in research and decision-making processes.

Takeaways

• The UK and Australia are considered by Lyric as 'more forward-thinking' in their understanding of autism compared to the US.
• Including autistic individuals in research and decision-making processes is crucial.
• Many employers still lack understanding of neurodivergence and may not provide necessary accommodations. Neurodivergent individuals may face discrimination and challenges in the workplace, such as being denied reasonable accommodations.
• There are differences in Neurodivergence Laws and Workplace Accommodations in the US
• Neurodivergent individuals are constantly evolving and changing, and it is important to understand and embrace one's own unique experience.

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.

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In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss neurodivergent people who have shaped their lives and the influence of neurodivergent individuals in various fields. They talk about the impact of Walt Disney, Roald Dahl, Robin Williams and share personal anecdotes and discuss the importance of representation from those who have overcome challenges and inspire others to never give up and the positive influence it can have on neurodivergent individuals.

Takeaways

• Stand-up comedians like Robin Williams have been influential figures and have shaped their interests, creativity, and sense of humour.
• Celebrities like Jim Carrey and Tom Brady have overcome challenges and inspired people, including Simon and Jordan to never give up despite your disabilities.
• The importance of representation and the positive influence it can have on neurodivergent individuals is discussed.

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.

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"The only people that I spoke to that one, didn't make me feel like an alien and two, spoke my language were neurodivergent people."

In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan and Simon are joined by Jordans wife Sylvia. They discuss how they discovered their neurodivergence, how Sylvia was the one who first realized that Jordan might be autistic, and her experience of discovering her own neurodivergence and the positive impact it has had on their family. The couple talk about the importance of understanding and supporting each other, and how they have worked through challenges in their relationship. The conversation highlights the need for patience, empathy, and a different approach to communication when dealing with neurodivergent individuals. Simon shares his journey navigating struggles with school, questioning his identity, and finally finding his tribe. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and acceptance from family and friends, and the power of connecting with other neurodivergent individuals.

Takeaways

• Understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to learn different communication strategies.
• Working through challenges in a neurodivergent relationship requires ongoing effort, understanding, and a commitment to personal growth.
• Discovering one's neurodivergence can be a challenging and confusing journey, but it can also lead to self-acceptance and a sense of belonging.
• Connecting with other neurodivergent individuals can provide a sense of community and understanding.
• Society needs to change its perception of neurodivergent individuals and provide better support and resources.

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.

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"Neurodivergent Jenga is like many little triggers, which take away each one of your little bricks"

In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss the concept of losing spoons and playing Neurodivergent Jenga. We talk the concept of spoons, which represents energy levels, and how different factors can drain or add to their spoons throughout the day. Have you ever been stuck playing Neurodivergent Jenga, where small triggers can lead to a meltdown? We share our personal experiences with triggers and sensory issues and how they can affect our daily lives. Jordan discusses the challenges of being a parent and how neurodivergent children can trigger your own triggers.

Takeaways

• Spoons represent energy levels, and various factors can drain or add to them throughout the day
• Understanding and managing triggers can help prevent meltdowns and preserve spoons
• Parents of neurodivergent children may face additional challenges and need to find a balance between guidance and understanding.
• Executive dysfunction can affect daily tasks and routines, leading to triggers.

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.

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"Neurodivergent tax, also known as ADHD tax, is the impulse buying that has been a delight and a burden on me and my finances."

In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss impulse buying and 'Neurodivergent Tax'. The hosts discuss their personal experiences with impulse buying, including purchasing expensive items like dogs and sneakers, and having to pay the ND tax. They also touch on the impact of FOMO (fear of missing out) and the role of research in impulse buying.

Takeaways

• FOMO (fear of missing out) can contribute to impulse buying, as individuals may feel the need to participate in certain trends or experiences.
• Research can play a role in impulse buying, as individuals may justify their purchases by conducting extensive research and convincing themselves of the value.
• Impulse buying can have both positive and negative consequences, ranging from the joy of acquiring desired items to financial strain and regret.
• Setting boundaries and being mindful of impulsive tendencies can help manage and control impulse buying behaviour.
• Sales and second-hand items can be more affordable options for satisfying shopping desires.
• Parents may feel compelled to buy things for their children to ensure they don't miss out.

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.

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"My relationship with food is incredibly complex. I hate food that is unpredictable."

In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss their complex relationships with food. They share their experiences with 'fussy' eating, body dysmorphia, and trauma-related food aversions. They also talk about the impact of neurodivergent traits on their eating habits, such as demand avoidance and hypersensitivity. They highlight the unpredictability of food textures and flavours for neurodivergent people and the preference for routine and familiarity.

Takeaways

• Neurodivergent individuals often have complex relationships with food, influenced by factors such as picky eating, body dysmorphia, and trauma-related aversions.
• Neurodivergent traits, such as demand avoidance and hypersensitivity, can impact eating habits and food preferences.
• Childhood experiences with food, including restrictions and negative associations, can shape an individual's relationship with food as an adult.
• Developing a healthier relationship with food may involve exploring new flavours, managing sensory sensitivities, and addressing underlying emotional issues.
• It is important to be mindful of how we talk about food and body image, avoiding negative language and promoting self-acceptance as understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals' unique food preferences and challenges can promote their overall well-being.
• Parents should avoid labelling their children as 'fussy eaters' and instead create a positive and supportive environment to encourage trying new foods.

Chapters

00:00 RTN Sponsor

01:43 The Complexity of Neurodivergent Relationships with Food

06:26 Childhood Experiences and Food Challenges

09:20 Food as Comfort and Trauma Response

13:15 Struggles with Eating and Starvation

25:15 Negative Associations and Social Exclusion

27:10 Conclusion and Support for Neurodivergent Food Preferences

32:10 Navigating Unpredictability: Food Textures and Flavours for Neurodivergent People

45:06 Childhood Memories and Associations with Food

50:42 Supporting Neurodivergent Children in Developing Healthy Eating Habits

52:09 The Impact of Food on Neurodivergent Individuals' Cognitive Abilities

53:07 Promoting Positive Body Image and Mindful Eating for Neurodivergent Individuals

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.

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