Ep 4 - AuDHD with Hugo

The Neuro Diaries Podcast

In this conversation, Jade Rose and Hugo discuss neurodivergence, specifically autism and ADHD. They talk about stimming as a way to regulate and soothe, and share their personal stimming habits. Hugo shares his experience of being diagnosed with autism and how it has allowed him to understand and embrace his need for regulation. They also discuss the challenges of balancing routine and novelty-seeking, as well as the sensory sensitivities that come with autism. They touch on the use of alcohol as a coping mechanism and the importance of finding healthier alternatives. The conversation highlights the need for greater understanding and acceptance of neurodivergent individuals in society. The conversation explores the experience of living with neurodivergence, particularly autism, and the challenges faced in a neurotypical world. They discuss the impact of bullying, the importance of self-acceptance, and the need for greater understanding and accommodations in society. They also touch on the concept of masking and the internalized anger that can arise from navigating a world that doesn't fully understand neurodivergent experiences. The conversation ends with a message of hope for a future where neurodivergence is accepted and accommodated without stigma. Takeaways

• Stimming is a common way for neurodivergent individuals to regulate and soothe themselves.
• An autism diagnosis can provide a sense of self-compassion and allow for accommodations that bring joy and ease of stress.
• Balancing routine and novelty-seeking can be challenging for individuals with ADHD and autism.
• Sensory sensitivities are a common experience for autistic individuals, and finding ways to manage them is important.
• Alcohol can be used as a coping mechanism for sensory overload, but finding healthier alternatives is crucial.
• Greater understanding and acceptance of neurodivergent individuals is needed in society. Living with neurodivergence often involves masking and adapting to fit into a neurotypical world.
• Bullying and invalidation can have a profound impact on the self-perception and self-acceptance of neurodivergent individuals.
• Greater education and understanding are needed to create a more inclusive and accommodating society for neurodivergent individuals.
• The journey of self-acceptance and unmasking is not linear and may involve setbacks, but it is essential for personal growth and well-being.
• There is hope for a future where neurodivergence is accepted and accommodated without stigma.

Keywords

neurodivergence, autism, ADHD, stimming, regulation, sensory sensitivity, alcohol, coping mechanism, acceptance, neurodivergence, autism, bullying, self-acceptance, understanding, accommodations, masking, anger, hope