Episode 1 - It All Started With A National Press Club Address…
May 5, 2024
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Em Rusciano speaks with her husband Scott and daughter Odette about their journey with ADHD and autism. They delve into the overlooked diagnoses of women and AFAB individuals, exploring the stigma surrounding these conditions. Clinical psychologist Dr. Joey Lawrence and advocate Sonny Ja share insights into neurodiversity, discussing the challenges within educational systems and the importance of representation. Personal anecdotes highlight the journey of self-acceptance and the pivotal need for advocacy in understanding neurodivergent experiences.
Em Rusciano highlights the crucial need for awareness and understanding of neurodivergence, advocating for inclusivity in conversations about diagnoses.
She emphasizes the societal misconceptions surrounding neurodivergent individuals, particularly women, which often lead to late and unrecognized diagnoses.
Deep dives
Embracing Neurodiversity
Emrasciano emphasizes the importance of recognizing neurodivergent individuals as equally worthy rather than deficient. She advocates for involving neurodiverse people in discussions and decisions that affect them, arguing that too often, these conversations occur without their input. The stigma around neurodivergence is compounded by internalized misogyny and ableism, and Emrasciano calls for a shift in societal perception where differences are celebrated rather than hidden. She believes that everyone deserves a sense of belonging, regardless of their neurological makeup.
Personal Journey of Diagnosis
Emrasciano recounts her personal experience with ADHD and autism diagnoses later in life, revealing that about 15-20% of Australians are neurodivergent. She stresses that societal expectations often misrepresent neurodivergence, leading to a narrow view mainly focusing on stereotypes. By sharing her story, she aims to create a roadmap for others navigating similar terrains, helping them realize that they are not alone in their struggles. Emrasciano discusses the emotional challenges and self-doubt she faced during this journey, especially the fear of not adequately representing the neurodivergent community.
The Complexity of Neurodivergent Experiences
The episode addresses the wide spectrum of neurodiversity, highlighting that common stereotypes often overlook the realities faced by many individuals. Emrasciano mentions that ADHD and autism present differently in women, leading to late diagnoses that frequently go unrecognized. She points out that societal norms often equate being neurodivergent with a lack of achievement or focus, yet many neurodivergent individuals lead successful lives. By challenging these stereotypes, she encourages a broader understanding of what it means to be neurodivergent beyond the caricatures often depicted in media.
Advocacy and Awareness
Emrasciano's public address at the National Press Club not only shared her story but aimed to spark a conversation about the need for awareness and support for neurodivergent individuals. Her speech led to increased visibility, culminating in a Senate inquiry focused on improving access to ADHD diagnosis and treatment in Australia. The inquiry received significant feedback, highlighting societal barriers faced by individuals seeking help for ADHD. Emrasciano concludes that while her journey is just beginning, raising awareness is crucial in fostering an environment where neurodivergent individuals can thrive without fear of stigma.
In 2022, Em Rusciano presented a National Press Club Address opening up about her ADHD diagnosis she received during the peak of COVID lockdowns.
In our first episode of Anomalous, Em begins her quest exploring why so many women and AFAB people are being overlooked when it comes to receiving an ADHD or autism diagnosis, we speak with Em's husband Scott and daughter Odette, and meet two experts leading the neurodiversity movement: Clinical psychologist Dr Joey Lawrence and fierce advocate Sonny Jane Wise