The Squarepeg Podcast 126. Letting go of self hatred: the impact of an autism diagnosis
Mar 1, 2025
Hannah Brockway, an Australian violinist, discusses her journey with autism, chronic fatigue, and eating disorders. She shares her emotional rollercoaster from diagnosis to self-acceptance, emphasizing the importance of family support. Hannah critiques societal body image pressures and their impact on self-worth, while also exploring the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent musicians in a competitive industry. Through her personal narratives, she highlights the need for understanding and advocacy in navigating the complexities of autism and mental health.
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Diagnosis Journey
- Hannah's autism diagnosis journey began in her late 20s, prompted by conversations with friends and family.
- It was delayed by two years due to the need for an assessor who understood anorexia nervosa.
Two Assessments
- Hannah's first assessment was a negative experience due to the assessor's outdated knowledge and dismissive attitude.
- Her second assessment, with an eating disorder specialist, led to a positive diagnosis.
Post-Diagnosis Panic
- After receiving her diagnosis, Hannah experienced panic attacks and developed panic disorder.
- This coincided with other stressful events, including the war in Ukraine and personal health concerns.