Embracing neurodiversity: A parent's journey with ADHD
In the latest episode of Raising Confident Kids with SEN, I have a compelling conversation with Emma Cossey, a Freelance Coach, who candidly shares her experience with receiving an adult ADHD diagnosis and how it intertwined with identifying potential ADHD traits in her son. As Emma reflects back on her son’s journey, she recalls noticing signs of ADHD in him from an early age. His boundless energy, constant chatter, and atypical speech development all raised red flags. Emma’s intuition prompted her to explore the possibility of ADHD, despite some resistance. It's a familiar experience for many parents navigating the diagnostic process for neurodevelopmental conditions, often leading to insights into their own neurodivergent traits.
Self-discovery journey
As Emma’s understanding of ADHD deepened, she also began to recognise, to her surprise, that she shared some of the same traits. Despite struggling with chronic exhaustion, she hadn’t initially realised the extent of her own neurodivergent characteristics. This came as a revelation, particularly when she described the experience of finally taking medication for ADHD and feeling the noise in her brain subside, leaving her less fatigued. This moment of clarity, which she said was like turning off a constant background hum, is a profound insight into the true impact of neurodivergent conditions on an individual's daily experience.
Insightful analogies and positive realizations
We discuss the analogy of operating on "hard mode" versus "easy mode," a comparison that strikingly encapsulates the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD. This perspective resonates deeply, emphasising that neurodivergent individuals navigate a world structured for neurotypical individuals, making everyday tasks or routines feel like intricate puzzles. Emma's recounting of her experience with ADHD medication and the profound positive impact it had on her internal dialogue, shifting the ingrained negative self-talk, is not only enlightening but empowering.
Practical strategies for everyday life
Discussing the practical adjustments made at home to accommodate ADHD traits, Emma emphasises the need for a mindset shift from “importance-motivation” to “interest-motivation.” By reframing tasks to be fun, novel, competitive, or urgent, she illustrates how to create an ADHD-friendly environment that aligns with the neurodivergent brain's processing style. From convenient storage solutions to delegating tasks and understanding the value of “ADHD tax,” Emma provides a window into how families can adapt their environments to support their neurodivergent members.
The freelancer community and neurodiversity
Emma's work within the freelance community adds another layer to the conversation. Her observations regarding the prevalence of neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with ADHD or ASD, gravitating towards freelancing due to the flexibility and adaptability it offers, shed light on the impact of work environments on individuals with diverse processing styles. The community she has built, The Freelance Lifestyle, stands as a testament to the need for inclusive, supportive spaces where individuals can exchange experiences, celebrate successes, and seek guidance without the fear of judgement or exclusion.
Listen to this episode of self-discovery, epiphanies, and practical strategies that can benefit parents navigating neurodiversity. As we continue to explore these conversations, we strive to cultivate spaces where neurodivergence isn’t just accommodated, but embraced, leading to greater inclusivity and understanding for all.