Autism, ADHD and Us Three

If you thought finally getting your autism or ADHD diagnosis would feel like pure relief… and instead you feel exhausted, foggy, emotional or completely flattened… this one’s for you.In this solo episode of Autism, ADHD and Us Three, Jenny breaks down something nobody really warns you about. The post-diagnosis crash.She explains why so many late-diagnosed neurodivergent adults experience burnout after finally getting answers, and why this isn’t weakness, regression or you not coping well enough. It is physiology.Jenny explores what happens inside the nervous system after decades of masking, hypervigilance and pushing through environments that were never built for your brain. She talks about the relief that comes with diagnosis, and why that relief can actually trigger shutdown, exhaustion and emotional fallout.Inside this episode:Why diagnosis can act like a circuit breaker for your nervous systemHow ADHD hyperfocus and autistic deep processing can accelerate burnoutThe physical signs of nervous system recalibrationWhy you cannot “optimise” your way out of this phasePractical ways to stabilise when everything feels too muchWhat real recovery actually looks likeThis episode is a permission slip to slow down. To stop turning yourself into a project. To let your body land after years of survival mode.If you are in that shaky “who am I now?” space… you are not alone.🎧 Chapters00:00 Introduction and episode overview01:05 Relief and the unexpected crash01:34 Why burnout happens after diagnosis02:30 What is happening inside the body and brain03:34 Masking, hypervigilance and chronic stress05:48 The nervous system under long-term pressure07:42 Diagnosis as a circuit breaker08:36 Physical signs of recalibration09:29 Identity shifts and psychological changes10:54 Grief after diagnosis12:13 The post-diagnosis crash explained12:53 ADHD hyperfocus and autistic deep processing13:44 Medication and increased sensory awareness15:09 Nervous system regulation and perceived regression17:02 Acceptance and self-compassion20:42 What to actually do during burnout21:34 Myths about strength and recovery22:55 Practical regulation and self-care23:50 Small steps that help24:46 Community and support28:00 Final encouragement💛 Work With Me & Next StepsJoin my free 5 day live experience Unlearning the Bullshithttps://welcome.audhdistically.me/unlearning-bs-registrationNew here? Start here:https://welcome.audhdistically.me/start-hereSign up for The Positivity Pause newsletter:https://www.audhdistically.meConnect with me on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.me

In this episode, Jenny Lucas speaks with Leanne Tran, a registered psychologist specializing in assessments for autism, ADHD, and specific learning disorders. They discuss the importance of early diagnosis and support for neurodiverse children, the impact of parental neurodiversity, and the assessment process. Leanne shares insights on navigating the challenges of accessing support in rural areas and the significance of individualized support in schools. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding self-identity in neurodiverse children and innovative approaches to parental support.Contact Leanne Tran:https://learn.leannetran.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/leannetranpsychology/Contact Jenny Lucashttps://welcome.audhdistically.me/start-herehttps://www.facebook.com/Audhdistically.mehttps://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.me/https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.meKeywordsneurodiversity, autism, ADHD, assessments, parental support, self-identity, rural access, school support, psychological assessments, early diagnosisChapters00:00 Introduction to Neurodiversity and Early Support02:48 Understanding Parental Neurodiversity05:16 The Importance of Self-Identity in Assessments08:00 Navigating the Assessment Process10:35 Challenges in Accessing Assessments13:15 Working with Schools for Support16:02 The Role of Online Resources18:45 Innovative Support Strategies for Parents21:22 Conclusion and Resources for Families

In this powerful and deeply validating episode of Autism, ADHD and Us Three, Jenny is joined by TEDx speaker and bestselling author Taiba Bajar, whose personal and professional work has supported thousands of families navigating autism regression, burnout, and neurodivergent parenting.Taiba shares her own son’s story of autistic regression which included a sudden loss of speech, connection, and developmental milestones, and the heart breaking gaslighting many parents face when they try to speak up about it. Together, she and Jenny explore the emotional toll of being dismissed, the grief of watching your child change before your eyes, and the quiet strength it takes to keep fighting for answers.Taiba also breaks down her 7-Step Autism Action Plan, as featured in her book Unlock Autism: A Parent’s Guide to Help Your Child Recover Skills and Reduce Symptoms. From gut healing and oxytocin support to functional blood testing and nervous system care, she outlines practical, parent-led strategies that aim to reduce symptom severity without erasing identity.This is not about fixing children. It’s about giving them the physiological safety and support to thrive and helping parents feel empowered instead of exhausted.KeywordsAutism regressionAutistic burnout in adultsNeurodivergent parentingLate autism diagnosisGut-brain connectionUnlock Autism bookFunctional autism supportSymptom relief vs acceptanceTrauma-informed parentingADHD and sensory issues---------------------------Website: www.autismbrainempowerment.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/autismbrainempowerment/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/taibabajar

If you’ve ever found yourself whisper-screaming “Why won’t they just DO it?” in the hallway while your child refuses to put socks on for the tenth time… this one’s for you.In this episode of Autism, ADHD and Us Three, Jenny sits down with Emma McDonnell, a neurodivergent mother navigating life, education, and holidays with children who have Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) which is a profile of autism that turns traditional parenting advice completely on its head.Emma shares her real, raw journey from career woman to full-time carer, unpacking the WTF is happening?! moments that come with raising PDAers, and the mindset shifts that helped her move from panic to presence.Together, they explore:– Why compliance isn’t the goal– How self-compassion might actually be your best parenting strategy– The emotional landmines of holiday expectations– And why “well-being” doesn’t have to mean spa days or 5am journalingThis episode is a permission slip for anyone parenting neurodivergent children through systems that don’t understand them and doing it while running on fumes. KeywordsPDA parentingAutism and demand avoidanceNeurodivergent motherhoodHoliday stress & family dynamicsMental health and well-beingEducation & unmet needsTrauma-informed parentingSelf-compassion for mumsAutistic children and schoolEmotional regulation in ND families-----------------------------Email: emma@emma-mcdonnell.comWebsite: emma-mcdonnell.comInstagram: @theemmamcdonnell

In this episode, Jenny Lucas discusses her newly launched book, 'Autism ADHD and Me: You're No Bullshit Guide to Life After Late Diagnosis.' Buy your copy here: https://amzn.to/4o58FQfShe shares her personal journey of writing the book, the challenges she faced during her late diagnosis of ADHD and autism, and the importance of self-love and acceptance. The conversation delves into the themes of internalised ableism, navigating relationships, and the significance of community support. Jenny emphasises the need for resources that resonate with neurodivergent individuals and the transformative power of understanding oneself post-diagnosis.-------------------------------👉 ⁠Take the Free Confidence Quiz⁠👉 ⁠Sign up for the Positivity Pause Newsletter⁠👉 Follow me on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn @audhdistically.me Email Jenny @ audhdistically.me--------------------------------KeywordsAutism, ADHD, neurodivergence, late diagnosis, self-love, internalized ableism, book launch, personal journey, relationships, community supportChapters00:00 Introduction to the Book Launch05:42 The Purpose Behind the Book11:23 Chapter Insights: Key Themes16:44 The Importance of Self-Love22:18 The Role of Community and Feedback

Welcome back! Before we dive in, if you’re enjoying the podcast, I’d love you to leave a quick review. It really helps more neurodivergent women like us find these conversations.In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Niki McGlynn, a neurodevelopmental therapist and trainer, who brings her personal story of late diagnosis and her deep expertise in primitive reflexes. We dig into what primitive reflexes actually are, why they matter for autistic and ADHD brains, and how retained reflexes can shape everything from emotional regulation to sensory processing and even people pleasing.Niki shares practical insights into reflex integration therapy, a movement-based approach that helps the nervous system let go of unintegrated reflexes. We talk about why movement is so powerful for brain development, how small exercises can make a big difference at home, and why advocacy in schools and clinical settings is essential.This episode is full of lightbulb moments, especially if you’ve ever wondered why you (or your child) struggle with focus, anxiety, or overwhelm, despite working so hard. Niki’s approach doesn’t “cure” neurodivergence (and why would we want it to?) but it does offer hope for reducing the struggles while keeping all the brilliance.🌐 Find Niki here: Organised Mind📱 Instagram: @_organisedmind✨ Ready to go deeper? Join my world here:Sign up to my newsletter for weekly insightsJoin the Facebook community to connect with other late-diagnosed womenJoin the book waitlist for Autism, ADHD and Me — launching 28 October 2025!Keywords:neurodivergence, ADHD, autism, primitive reflexes, emotional regulation, reflex integration therapy, sensory processing, late diagnosis, parenting, advocacyChapters00:00 Introduction to Neurodivergence and Personal Journeys03:22 Understanding Primitive Reflexes and Their Impact06:10 The Connection Between Reflexes and Neurodivergence08:58 Reflex Integration Therapy: How It Works11:25 Benefits of Reflex Integration Therapy14:13 Addressing Sensory Processing and Emotional Regulation17:01 The Role of Movement in Brain Development19:45 Navigating Adult Life with Retained Reflexes22:18 Advocacy for Neurodivergent Individuals25:21 Practical Tips for Parents and Individuals27:48 Conclusion and Resources

✨ Show Notes: Autism, ADHD and Us ThreeFriendship can be one of the most complicated parts of life and when you add autism or ADHD into the mix, it often feels even more confusing. In this episode, I share my own experiences as a late-diagnosed woman navigating friendships: the longing for people who really “get” you, the heartbreak when connections fade without explanation, and the messy reality of figuring out who feels safe to be your unmasked self around.I talk about my own childhood memories of feeling different, how that shaped me as an adult, and what I notice now in my children’s friendships too. We’ll explore why making and keeping friends can feel so hard, why closure is often missing, and the universal desire to be truly known and loved anyway.Whether you’re reflecting on friendships that slipped away, searching for more authentic connections, or just wanting reassurance that you’re not alone in these struggles this episode will meet you right where you are.What you’ll hear in this episode:Why friendships can feel so different when you’re late-diagnosed ADHD or autisticThe challenges children (and adults) face with social dynamicsHow masking impacts connection and belongingWhy friendships evolve over time — and why that’s both hard and normalThe universal desire to be seen, accepted, and loved for who you are🎧 Listen now and know you’re not alone.If this episode resonates, make sure you’re on the waitlist for my upcoming book launching in October 2025. You’ll get early updates and even the chance to win a signed copy.👉 Join the Book Waitlist👉 Take the Free Confidence Quiz👉 Sign up for the Positivity Pause Newsletter👉 Follow me on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn @audhdistically.me Email Jenny @ audhdistically.meKeywords: ADHD, autism, AuDHD, friendships, late diagnosis, parenting, social dynamics, relationships, connection, community

Season 2 Finale. If this resonated with you, share with someone who needs it, get in touch with me or leave a review so others can find our community and get support too.SummaryIn this episode, Jenny Lucas reflects on the internalized lies that neurodivergent individuals often carry, particularly those diagnosed with autism or ADHD later in life. She discusses the impact of these lies on self-perception, emotional responses, and social interactions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of unmasking these beliefs to foster self-acceptance and understanding. Jenny also shares insights from her personal journey, highlighting the complexities of navigating life as a neurodivergent individual and the significance of self-compassion and communication in relationships.💌 Want a weekly boost of positive psychology self-compassion and gratitude direct to your inbox. Sign up for The Positivity Pause: ⁠https://www.audhdistically.me/get-my-newsletter⁠📖 I’m writing a book for late-diagnosed autistic ADHD women. Join the waitlist to be the first to hear updates: ⁠https://www.audhdistically.me/book-waitlist⁠📅 Want to explore working together? Book a free 15-minute discovery call: ⁠https://tidycal.com/audhdisticallyme/15min20240410095342⁠Chapters00:00 Introduction and Season Wrap-Up09:43 Understanding Sensitivity and Emotional Responses17:30 Disorganization and Executive Functioning27:39 Conclusion and EncouragementKeywordsneurodivergence, unmasking, internalised lies, autism, ADHD, emotional responses, social interactions, self-perception, people-pleasing, masking, AuDHD

Hello and thanks so much for tuning into Season 2 Episode 10 of Autism ADHD and Us ThreeIf you enjoy the episode please consider leaving a review. It really helps more late-diagnosed women and neurodivergent parents find us and feel less alone 💜🧠💬 In this episode I dive into the complicated relationship between productivity and self-worth. It is something so many of us have internalised from a young age and often never question. I share some really personal moments from my own experience of burnout especially what it looked and felt like as an AuDHDer trying to stay afloat in systems never built for me.I talk about the pressure to prove our value through doing why rest often feels unsafe and how redefining what it means to be worthy can change everythingThis episode is about letting go of the belief that your worth is measured by your productivity and learning to trust your body your limits and your right to rest💛 Whether you are deep in burnout just coming out of it or trying to believe that you deserve to slow down. This episode is a warm hug and a firm reminder that you are already enough💌 Want a weekly boost of positive psychology self-compassion and gratitude direct to your inboxSign up for The Positivity Pause:https://www.audhdistically.me/get-my-newsletter📖 I’m writing a book for late-diagnosed autistic ADHD womenJoin the waitlist to be the first to hear updates:https://www.audhdistically.me/book-waitlist📅 Want to explore working togetherBook a free 15-minute discovery call:https://tidycal.com/audhdisticallyme/15min20240410095342📚 Chapters00:00 The burden of productivity10:43 Redefining worthiness beyond productivity20:43 Finding balance and embracing rest🔊 Sound bitesI was beyond exhausted absolutely knackeredYou do not need to earn restIt is slow small steps one at a time🎧 Follow me and connectInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.meTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.meEverything else including my free Facebook group contact coaching and offers:https://www.audhdistically.me🎙️ Keywordsproductivity, worthiness, burnout, ADHD. neurodivergence, self-worth, parenting, mental health, coaching, personal growth, AuDHD

Hello and thanks so much for tuning into Season 2 Episode 9 of Autism, ADHD and Us Three! If you enjoy the episode, please consider leaving a review – it really helps more late-diagnosed women and neurodivergent parents find us and feel less alone 💜🧠💬 In this episode, I’m flying solo to dive deep into one of the most misunderstood but powerful topics: self-acceptance as a late-diagnosed neurodivergent woman and parent.I talk honestly about what self-acceptance really looks like (hint: it’s not some glittery destination you magically arrive at). Instead, it’s built quietly, daily, through the small moments no one sees — the boundaries, the cancelled plans without guilt, the quiet self-compassion when you’re struggling.We explore why some struggles will always be there no matter how many accommodations you build (and why that's okay), how breaking free from societal expectations changes everything for us and for our children, and how healing yourself now is actively creating a more authentic, empowered future for the next generation. 🌱This episode is full of real talk, laughter at the messy reality of "the journey" (seriously, if you know a better word than "journey", let me know 😂), and heartfelt encouragement for anyone working to reclaim their life on their terms.💛 Whether you’re just starting your self-acceptance work or you’re in the messy middle of it — this one's for you.💌 Want a weekly boost of positive psychology, self-compassion, and gratitude direct to your inbox? Sign up for The Positivity Pause:⁠https://www.audhdistically.me/get-my-newsletter⁠📖 I’m writing a book for late-diagnosed autistic ADHD women! Join the waitlist to be the first to hear updates:⁠https://www.audhdistically.me/book-waitlist⁠📚 Chapters:00:00 – Welcome back: why self-acceptance isn’t a destination02:18 – The messy, real-life version of becoming yourself06:45 – Cancelled plans, sensory overload, and guilt-free boundaries12:30 – Some struggles never fully go away (and why that’s okay)18:05 – Why self-compassion needs to happen quietly and daily24:15 – Breaking away from societal expectations29:30 – How healing yourself changes your children’s inner voice35:10 – The profound legacy of choosing yourself first🎧 Follow me and connect:Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.me/⁠TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.me⁠Everything else (free Facebook group, contact, coaching, offers):⁠https://www.audhdistically.me⁠🎙️Keywords: ADHD, Autism, AuDHD, late diagnosed ADHD woman, self-acceptance, masking, neurodivergent parenting, inner healing, late diagnosis, neurodivergent empowerment, breaking generational cycles, authentic living, radical self-care, emotional resilience

Hello and thanks so much for tuning into Season 2 Episode 8 of Autism, ADHD and Us Three! If you enjoy the episode, please consider leaving a review – it really helps more late-diagnosed women and neurodivergent parents find us and feel less alone 💜🧹✨ In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant George from @simplifybyGeorge, a professional organiser who supports neurodivergent women and families to reclaim calm and control in their homes. Together, we dive deep into the emotional and practical sides of decluttering and simplifying as late-diagnosed AuDHD parents.We talk about household overwhelm, those infamous “doom piles,” and why so many of us feel shame when we can’t keep on top of domestic life – especially when the narrative we’ve been fed is “you should be able to do this.” George shares accessible, ADHD-friendly tips for building habits, creating systems, and letting go of other people’s expectations.Whether you’re juggling a chaotic household, navigating burnout, or just need permission to do things your own way – this episode is packed with validation, practical advice, and a whole lot of laughter. Massive thanks to George for such a warm and helpful conversation!---------------------------------------------Here are George's links!https://www.instagram.com/simplifybygeorge/https://www.simplifybygeorge.com/ ----------------------------------------------💌 Want a weekly boost of positive psychology, self-compassion, and gratitude direct to your inbox? Sign up for The Positivity Pause:https://www.audhdistically.me/get-my-newsletter📖 I’m writing a book for late-diagnosed autistic ADHD women! Join the waitlist to be the first to hear updates:https://www.audhdistically.me/book-waitlist🎧 Follow me and connect:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.me/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.meEverything else (free Facebook group, contact, coaching, offers): https://www.audhdistically.me----------------------------------------🎙️ Keywords:ADHD, Autism, AuDHD, late diagnosed ADHD woman, decluttering, executive functioning, emotional regulation, neurodivergent parenting, ADHD mum, late diagnosis, ADHD overwhelm, neurodiversity support, simplifying, self-acceptance-----------------------------------------📚 Chapters00:00 – Meet George: Decluttering expert & neurodivergent parent02:15 – Why our homes reflect our brains07:30 – ADHD doom piles and emotional chaos12:42 – Breaking habits of “doing it all” as the default parent18:20 – Letting go of shame around rest and productivity24:55 – Making laundry ADHD-friendly29:40 – How George works with clients & builds sustainable habits34:10 – Tiny changes that make a massive impact38:42 – How to support your child’s executive functioning at home43:25 – Dealing with different organising styles in your household49:00 – Letting go of “shoulds” and owning what works for you

Hello and thanks for listening to S2 Episode 7. Please do leave a review if you can to help others find and join our growing community!SummaryIn this episode, Jenny explores the unique experience of being an autistic ADHD woman, discussing the paradoxes of routine and novelty, the struggles of forming friendships, the impact of ADHD medication, and the challenges of emotional dysregulation. She emphasises the importance of self-acceptance and finding community among those who share similar experiences, while also addressing the societal challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals.-------------------If you'd like to receive my weekly 'Positivity Pause' youcan sign up here: https://www.audhdistically.me/get-my-newsletterIf you have any comments or feedback please do get in touch!Social links: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.meInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.me/ All other info including the free Facebook community, email contact & how details of how to work with me:https://www.audhdistically.me -------------------I'm writing a book!! If you want to be the first to knowmore then sign up to the book waitlist here: https://www.audhdistically.me/book-waitlist-------------------KeywordsAutism, ADHD, AuDHD, self-acceptance, emotional dysregulation, friendship struggles, ADHD medication, routine, novelty, neurodiversity-------------------Chapters00:00 Introduction to AuDHD Experience02:50 The Paradox of Routine and Novelty12:49 Friendship Struggles and Connections20:23 ADHD Medication and Autistic Awakening27:29 Emotional Dysregulation and Rejection Sensitivity31:14 Living in a World Not Designed for Us35:05 Self-Acceptance and Personal Growth

Hello and thanks for listening to S2 episode 6. Please do leave a review if you can to help others find and join our growing community! In this episode, Jenny Lucas speaks with Sarah West, a specialist in perimenopause, menopause, and ADHD coaching. They explore the intersection of neurodivergence and hormonal changes, particularly how many women discover their neurodivergent traits during perimenopause. Sarah shares her personal journey and the transformative power of coaching in navigating these life changes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-care, understanding hormonal impacts, and finding support for ADHD and menopause. ------------------- If you'd like to receive my weekly 'Positivity Pause' you can sign up here: https://www.audhdistically.me/get-my-newsletter If you have any comments or feedback please do get in touch! Social links: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.me/ All other info including email & how to work with me: www.audhdistically.me ------------------- I'm writing a book!! If you want to be the first to know more then head to my website and sign up to the book waitlist! ------------------- Contact details for Sarah West ADHD Coach: https://www.sarahwest-adhd.com/ ------------------- Keywords ADHD, menopause, perimenopause, neurodivergent women, coaching, mental health, self-care, boundaries, hormones, support ------------------- Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Neurodivergence and Menopause 02:50 Understanding the Connection Between ADHD and Menopause 06:01 The Role of Coaching in Navigating Life Changes 08:57 The Importance of Self-Care and Boundaries 11:59 Exploring Perimenopause: Symptoms and Impacts 20:51 The Science of Hormones and Neurodivergence 26:57 Finding Support and Resources for ADHD and Menopause

Hello and thanks for listening to S2 episode 5. Please do leave a review if you can to help others find and join our growing community! ---------- If you'd like to receive my weekly 'Positivity Pause' you can sign up here: https://www.audhdistically.me/get-my-newsletter If you have any comments or feedback please do get in touch! Social links: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.me?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Instagram (new!): https://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.me/ All other info including email & how to work with me: www.audhdistically.me ----------------- Contact Details for Lauren O'Carroll of Positively Parenting: https://positivelyparenting.co.uk/ mailto:lauren@positivelyparenting.co.uk @positivelyparentingtogether (Instagram and threads) @positivelyparentingloz (Tiktok) @adhdparentcoach (Bluesky) ------------------ In this episode, Jenny Lucas and Lauren O'Carroll discuss the complexities of parenting children with ADHD, drawing from their personal experiences as late-diagnosed individuals. Keywords: AuDHD parenting, neurodivergent, support, diagnosis, self-discovery, parenting challenges, mental health, gentle parenting, personal journey, parenting, neurodivergence, ADHD, community, validation, self-care, parenting challenges, emotional support, mental health, family dynamics Chapters 00:00 Introduction to ADHD Parenting 01:31 Discovering ADHD: A Personal Journey 04:11 The Impact of ADHD Diagnosis 06:32 Parenting Challenges with ADHD 10:15 The Need for Tailored Support 12:08 Critique of Traditional Parenting Courses 14:29 Navigating External Opinions and Judgments 18:05 Trusting Parental Instincts 20:32 The Complexity of Neurodivergent Parenting 22:55 Identity and Self-Discovery Post-Diagnosis 25:15 Navigating Parenting Challenges 30:10 Understanding Neurodivergence in Parenting 35:08 The Importance of Community and Validation 39:21 Key Takeaways from Parenting Support 44:43 Self-Care and Understanding Needs

Hello and thanks for listening to S2 episode 4. Please do leave a review if you can to help others join our growing community! ---------- If you'd like to receive my weekly 'Positivity Pause' you can sign up here: https://www.audhdistically.me/get-my-newsletter If you're interested in joining the waitlist for The Power of Happiness in January 2025, sign up here: https://www.audhdistically.me/power-of-happiness-waitlist If you have any comments or feedback please do get in touch! Social links: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.me?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Instagram (new!): https://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.me/ All other info including email: https://beacons.ai/audhdistically.me keywords: neurodivergent, Christmas, parenting, boundaries, self-compassion, sensory overload, holiday tips, family traditions, mental health, positivity, AuDHD Summary In this episode, Jenny discusses how neurodivergent individuals and parents can navigate the overwhelming festive season. She shares personal experiences and practical tips on setting boundaries, managing sensory overload, and prioritizing self-compassion. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creating a comfortable environment, doing Christmas in a way that suits individual families, and planning ahead to ensure a joyful holiday experience. Jenny encourages listeners to let go of societal expectations and focus on what truly matters during the festive season.takeaways The festive season can be overwhelming for neurodivergent individuals. Setting boundaries and saying no is crucial for mental well-being. Self-compassion is essential for navigating holiday stress. Creating a comfortable environment helps manage sensory overload. It's okay to ditch traditional holiday practices that don't work for your family. Planning ahead can alleviate stress during the holiday season. Quality time with family is more important than quantity. Bring sensory tools and safe snacks to manage expectations. You are allowed to have your own needs met during the holidays. Letting go of others' opinions can lead to a more enjoyable Christmas. Surviving the Holidays: A Neurodivergent Perspective Reclaiming Christmas: Tips for Neurodivergent Families Boundaries and Joy: Navigating the Festive Season "No is a complete sentence." "You are allowed to say no." "Self-compassion is a game changer." "You are allowed to have needs." "Ditch the traditions, create your own." "Quality over quantity in family visits." "You do what works for you." Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Festive Season as Neurodivergent Parents 03:13 Overcoming Overwhelm: Strategies for a Joyful Christmas 06:10 Setting Boundaries: The Power of Saying No 08:59 Creating a Comfortable Environment: Sensory Considerations 11:51 Self-Compassion and Meeting Your Own Needs 15:13 Doing Christmas Your Way: Embracing Individual Traditions 18:05 Planning Ahead: The Importance of Preparation 20:52 Quality Over Quantity: Redefining Family Visits 24:08 Recap and Final Thoughts: Embracing Your Christmas

Hello and thanks for listening to S2 episode 3. Please do leave a review if you can to help others join our growing community! In this episode Hayley O'Connor and I discuss neurodiversity, sensory processing, and wellbeing, highlighting the importance of inclusive spaces, community support, and emotional regulation. We also explore the challenges of neurodivergent parenting, including parental guilt, sensory needs, and empowering children with knowledge about their identities, while balancing authenticity and self-care. Key themes in this episode: - Lived experience and expertise - Neurodivergent children and empowerment - Sensory processing and triggers - Decision paralysis and food - Labelling neurodivergent individuals - Creating sensory-friendly environments - Parenting as neurodivergent individuals - Community support and connection ----------- Here is how you can get in touch with Hayley and find out more about ZoneND: Website - https://zone-nd.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/zonend/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/z0nend/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ZoneND23 TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@zone_nd YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQUCcbPhUjKRrZ9V_ctkDVw Personal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayleyoconnor12/ ----------- If you have any comments or feedback please do get in touch! Social links: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.me?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Instagram (new!): https://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.me/ All other info including email: https://beacons.ai/audhdistically.me

Hello and thanks for listening to S2 episode 2. Please do leave a review if you can to help others join our growing community! Episode Summary: Overcoming Negative Self-Talk and Celebrating Little Wins In this episode I delve into the importance of reducing negative self-talk and cultivating self-compassion. I discuss how negative self-talk can erode self-esteem and confidence, and how practicing self-kindness can lead to positive transformations in our lives. I also explore the significance of teaching children to recognize and challenge negative self-talk, helping them develop a healthier mindset. By understanding the brain's natural negativity bias and training it to focus on the positive, we can cultivate greater happiness and resilience. Throughout the episode, I emphasize the power of self-acceptance and a growth mindset in navigating life's challenges. I highlight the benefits of celebrating small wins and building a strong sense of self-worth, which can enhance motivation and overall well-being. Key Topics from the Episode: Negative Self-Talk: The impact of negative self-talk on self-esteem and confidence. Self-Compassion: The importance of practicing self-kindness and understanding. Teaching Children: How to guide children in recognizing and changing negative self-talk. Neuroplasticity: The brain's ability to learn and adapt, including overcoming the negativity bias. Growth Mindset: The benefits of adopting a growth mindset over a fixed mindset. Resilience: Building resilience through self-compassion and celebrating small wins. Self-Worth: Cultivating a strong sense of self-worth and its impact on motivation and happiness If you have any comments or feedback please do get in touch! Social links: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.me?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Instagram (new!): https://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.me/ All other info including email: https://beacons.ai/audhdistically.me

Hello! Welcome to season 2 of the podcast! I've got so much to share with you this season so please make sure you subscribe so you don't miss a thing. If you have time, please leave a review to help others find our community.Podcast Episode Summary: Parenting with Autonomy and UnderstandingIn this episode, I discuss my unique approach to parenting with my husband, Pete. Yes, I've managed to persuade him to come on as a guest! We prioritise our children's needs over societal expectations, focusing on building their autonomy and understanding of their own feelings.Key takeaways from our conversation include:Prioritising children's needs: We believe it's essential to put our children's needs first, even if it means going against societal norms.Validating emotions: We support our children's emotions, helping them understand and express themselves.Autonomy in clothing: We encourage our children to make their own clothing choices, fostering their independence.Relaxed approach to language: We allow our children to use a variety of language, teaching them when and where it's appropriate.We also delve into specific topics like:Teaching about swearing: We've found that teaching our children about the context of swearing helps them understand why it might be offensive.Involving children in decisions: We believe it's important to give our children a voice in decisions that affect them, such as choosing holidays or decorating their rooms.Sharing personal challenges: We've found that sharing our own struggles with our children helps them understand that everyone faces difficulties.By modelling self-acceptance and healthy coping mechanisms, we hope to equip our children with the tools they need to navigate life's challenges.If you have any comments or feedback please do get in touch!Social links:Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.me?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram (new!): https://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.me/All other info including email: https://welcome.audhdistically.me/start-here

Hello! Welcome to Season 1 Episode 9. This is the final episode of the season. I'll be back with Season 2 in September 2024. Thanks for listening! Today I’m talking about the idea that stimming can be perceived as "attention seeking", why I think that is and the impact it has had on me and how I show up. Also how we deal with being perceived as a family and somethings that we do to help us build confidence in being our authentic selves in the world. Please follow @iamsimplysophie on tiktok if you've a mind to. This is Sophie who I mention in the episode today. She's great! Please feel free to leave a review or a comment about this episode! You can also find me over on TikTok here: https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.me?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Here are my other links, including email contact: ⁠⁠⁠beacons.ai/audhdistically.me⁠⁠⁠ Please take the time to leave a review if you can to help other people find our supportive community! Thank you!

Hello! Welcome to Season 1 Episode 8. Thanks for listening! Today I’m talking about meltdowns as an adult who has meltdowns and the parent of two AuDHD kids who have meltdowns. I share what they look like for us, when they happen and how we deal with them in our household. Please feel free to leave a review or a comment about this episode! You can also find me over on TikTok here: https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.me?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Here are my other links, including email contact: ⁠⁠beacons.ai/audhdistically.me⁠⁠ Please take the time to leave a review if you can to help other people find our supportive parenting community! Thank you!