Ep 195 Chronic Pain in Neurodivergent Individuals: Myths, Realities & Solutions with Kristen Hovet of 'The Other Autism Podcast' Part 2

Mar 19, 2025

Kristen Hovet, host of 'The Other Autism Podcast' and advocate for neurodivergent health, joins Dr. Lenz to explore the intersections of chronic pain and conditions like autism and ADHD. They address the challenges in the medical system for neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and compassionate care. Misconceptions about fibromyalgia are debunked, highlighting it as a genuine condition. Personal stories illustrate the importance of understanding pain perception in neurodivergent populations, advocating for more tailored healthcare solutions.

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Intro

00:00 • 2min

Understanding Chronic Pain and Neurodivergence: A Call for Better Support

02:26 • 4min

Understanding Fibromyalgia: Myths and Realities

06:22 • 6min

Understanding Neurodivergence in the Medical Field and Beyond

12:38 • 5min

Understanding Suicidal Thoughts in Autistic Individuals

17:47 • 3min

Navigating Neurodiversity and Pain Perception

20:35 • 22min

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

In this episode, Kristen Hovet interviews Dr. Lenz to explore the connections between neurodivergence, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain syndromes. They discuss the intersections of conditions like autism and ADHD with chronic health issues, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive care. Through shared stories, they highlight the medical system's challenges for neurodivergent individuals and advocate for a compassionate, evidence-based approach to pain management. The conversation also tackles misconceptions about conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, advocating for greater empathy in healthcare. This episode offers invaluable insights and practical advice for medical professionals, individuals living with chronic pain, and anyone curious about the link between neurodivergence and health. Dr. Lenz shares personal stories and professional experiences to illustrate these points. Tune in for a crucial discussion on improving care for neurodivergent individuals.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode
01:07 Exploring Neurodivergence and Chronic Pain
02:20 Personal Stories and Medical Insights
04:45 Misconceptions and Realities of Fibromyalgia
06:39 Advocating for Neurodivergent Health Needs
11:01 Challenges in Medical Training and Practice
31:48 Understanding Pain Perception in ADHD
36:37 Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions

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International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

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When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

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