Katy Weber, an ADHD advocate, coach, author, and host of the Women & ADHD podcast, shares her personal journey with ADHD and motherhood. She candidly discusses the struggles of late diagnosis and the profound impact of imposter syndrome. Katy reflects on her impulsive launch of her podcast during lockdown, treating it as therapy. The conversation highlights the importance of self-acceptance and the joy found in small moments, along with the community's role in supporting neurodivergence. It's a heartfelt exploration of identity and empowerment.
Late diagnosis of ADHD often brings relief and a transformative understanding of oneself, highlighting missed opportunities and driving advocacy within the community.
The importance of community support is emphasized, as connecting with like-minded individuals fosters understanding and combats feelings of isolation among those with ADHD.
Recognizing ADHD as a valid identity, rather than just a disorder, encourages compassion and a shift in societal perceptions towards acceptance and celebration of neurodiversity.
Deep dives
The Importance of Late ADHD Diagnosis
Receiving a late diagnosis of ADHD can have a profound impact on individuals' lives, as highlighted by the experiences shared in the episode. For many, including Katie Weber, this late discovery not only brings relief but also a transformative understanding of oneself. The realization that ADHD has shaped their experiences, particularly in childhood and academia, often leads to feelings of grief over missed opportunities. However, this newfound awareness can also ignite a passion for advocacy and change within the ADHD community.
Community and Connection Among ADHD Individuals
The power of community is emphasized throughout the discussion as a vital support system for those with ADHD. The joy of connecting with like-minded individuals reinforces the importance of sharing experiences and fostering understanding within the neurodivergent community. There is a unique language and bond among individuals with ADHD, allowing for vulnerability without judgment. This connection aids in combating feelings of isolation and misunderstanding that many ADHD individuals encounter in broader contexts.
Embracing Neurodivergence
The conversation reinforces that neurodivergence, including ADHD, is not merely a disorder but a valid identity deserving of respect and understanding. Advocates stress the need for society to shift its perspective of ADHD from stigmatization to acceptance and celebration of differences. By reframing ADHD as a neurodivergent identity rather than solely a disorder, individuals can begin to appreciate the diversity in how ADHD manifests. This change encourages greater compassion towards oneself and others within the ADHD community.
Navigating ADHD Challenges and Self-Doubt
The episode sheds light on common struggles faced by individuals with ADHD, such as self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Despite achieving success, many still grapple with the feeling of inadequacy, often questioning their contributions and value. This cycle continues to perpetuate negative self-perception, even in the face of accomplishments. It’s important for individuals to recognize these feelings as part of their experience and to seek validation and support within their community.
The Role of Humor and Acceptance in ADHD Life
A key takeaway from the discussion is the value of humor and radical acceptance in navigating life with ADHD. Embracing one's quirks and challenges contributes to a more authentic and fulfilling life. The importance of recognizing and laughing at the daily struggles faced by those with ADHD fosters resilience and connection. By accepting the chaos of their thinking and behaviors, individuals can take control of their lives and navigate the complexities of ADHD with a lighter heart.
Having been interviewed by the LEGENDARY Katy Weber on her INCREDIBLE Podcast: Women & ADHD I am honoured to swap roles and have her hop onboard the late ADHD discovery roller coaster with me!
In this interview/chinwag Katy shares her experiences with school struggles and truency, which left her feeling like a failure. Like many, she discovered her neurodivergence during lockdown. She impulsively launched her podcast pre diagnosis(!) and credits its many conversations as her own form of therapy; which have led to her becoming an ADHD expert.
I am so grateful to get to collaborate with Katy once again, and was particularly moved by her all too familiar experience of imposter syndrome post ADHD diagnosis and her relentless drive to strive for 'what's next'.
Trigger Warning: mentions of triggering topics including: depression, anxiety, ED, alcoholism, addiction, mental health struggles, suicide, suicidal ideation, PTSD, Complex trauma and loss of life. Also contains swearing.
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