Adelaide Saywell is a content creator, ADHD and autism advocate, and ADHD coach in training. They share their transformative journey of navigating ADHD and autism, emphasizing the importance of community support and awareness. Adelaide reflects on their experiences with misdiagnosis, self-advocacy, and the emotional impact of late diagnosis. They also explore the paradox of stimulation through horror media, and the joy of finding creativity in everyday life, showcasing how individual struggles can unite others with similar experiences.
Late diagnoses of ADHD and autism can lead to deep emotional struggles, including grief for a life not fully lived and feelings of isolation.
Neurodivergent conditions like ADHD and autism manifest uniquely in each individual, requiring tailored coping strategies for emotional regulation and daily functioning.
Self-advocacy is essential for navigating neurodivergence, empowering individuals to seek accommodations and support systems even before receiving a formal diagnosis.
Deep dives
The Emotional Impact of Late Diagnosis
Late diagnosis of ADHD and autism can lead to significant emotional challenges, including grief for the life not fully lived. Individuals may struggle with feelings of isolation and self-loathing, often questioning their worth due to years spent undiagnosed. For example, the impact of being labeled as 'too much' throughout life can manifest in long-term mental health issues. Recognizing these feelings is crucial for understanding the importance of proper diagnosis and support.
Unique Perspectives on Neurodivergence
Neurodivergence presents uniquely in every individual, as evidenced by the personal experiences shared in discussions about ADHD and autism. Each condition can overlap, significantly affecting emotional regulation and daily functioning. For instance, some individuals may find that ADHD affects their ability to maintain structure, while autism brings in a preference for routine. The intricate balance between these traits often requires tailored coping strategies.
The Struggles of Seeking Support
The journey to obtain a diagnosis can be fraught with obstacles, as many individuals encounter systemic barriers within healthcare. Experiences may range from long wait times to being dismissed by healthcare providers, further complicating their path to understanding their neurodivergence. For example, a patient might initially be misdiagnosed or told their symptoms are merely anxiety, leading to mismanagement of their condition. Such challenges underscore the need for better awareness and training regarding neurodivergent conditions in the medical community.
Accommodations and Self-Advocacy
Self-advocacy is crucial for individuals navigating neurodivergent traits, enabling them to seek accommodations even before a formal diagnosis. Strategies such as seeking supportive networks, using sensory management tools, and understanding personal triggers can profoundly affect one’s quality of life. For example, managing sensory overload with noise-canceling headphones allows individuals to participate more comfortably in social settings. Ultimately, self-advocacy empowers individuals to prioritize their mental and emotional well-being while awaiting formal assessments.
Finding Joy in Creativity
Creative outlets are often invaluable for those with ADHD and autism, providing a way to express themselves and manage their unique challenges. Engaging in artistic activities can serve as a dual-purpose tool—offering both a calming routine and an exciting challenge. For instance, one might find solace and stimulation in creative processes like makeup artistry or painting, allowing for an exploration of personal identity while regulating sensory experiences. These creative avenues provide joyous respite while fostering self-acceptance and expression.
Trigger Warning: There are some very triggering topics mentioned from the very start of this episode, including: depression, anxiety, ED, alcoholism, addiction, chronic pain, BPD, mental health struggles, suicide, suicidal ideation, misdiagnosis and bullying. Also contains swearing.
That said, this interview with the LEGENDARY Adelaide Saywell, much like the Content Creator themself,is an absolute joy! I am incredibly grateful to Adelaide for giving me their time,sharing their lived experiences & enlightening me on Autism and AuDHD; neither of which I have any lived experience nor much knowledge about. Adelaide uses their enormous platforms on Instagram, YouTube and Tik Tok to support others with similar struggles. Their vulnerability, positivity, tips and reminders are invaluable and inspirational.
Adlelaide severely struggled with their mental health from the age of 14, which led to them being sectioned under the mental health act at 21. Having received a Misdiagnoses of EUPD Previously known as BPD; through their own research she identified ADHD and Autism and was finally diagnosed with ADHD at 28... and after some serious self advocacy for Right To Choose(!) they received their Autism diagnosis. Adelaide is currently training to become an ADHD Coach. WHAT A LEGEND!
THANK YOU SO MUCH ADELAIDE!
If you are in need of support YOU ARE NOT ALONE! There is immediate help out there so please REACH OUT As mentioned in the episode, a list of other Autistic content creators from Bristol Autism Support is available HERE
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Apply to be part of ADHDAF Emporium: an online marketplace championing neurodivergent makers and small creative businesses HERE Browse the first few handmade items by neurodivergent creatives HERE and read the blog about our first festival HERE
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