Emily Katy, an autistic 22-year-old with ADHD and OCD, discusses navigating school systems, stigmas, and accommodations. She shares her 'Not a School Skiver' Campaign, mental health struggles, anxiety cycles, and medication insights. The conversation touches on phobias, the interplay of Autism and ADHD, and the importance of self-care in your 20s.
Emily highlights the struggles of being autistic and ADHD in the school system, emphasizing the need for helpful accommodations.
The importance of self-awareness and understanding how ADHD and autism contribute to anxiety and OCD is emphasized.
Advocacy for neurodivergent individuals in schools is crucial, challenging stereotypes and promoting systemic changes for better support.
Deep dives
Emily Katie's Neurodivergent Journey and Diagnoses
Emily Katie shares her journey of being diagnosed with autism at 16 and later with ADHD, highlighting her initial surprise at the ADHD diagnosis and the challenges of accepting it. She reflects on the different impacts and stereotypes associated with ADHD and autism, emphasizing the struggles of being misunderstood and the relief of finally having reasons for her difficulties.
Mental Health Challenges and Coping Strategies
Emily discusses her mental health challenges, including OCD, anxiety, and overwhelm, and the coping mechanisms she has developed. She mentions her experiences with therapy, medication, and coaching, underscoring the importance of self-awareness and understanding how her ADHD and autism contribute to her anxiety and OCD.
Advocacy and the 'Not a School Skiver' Campaign
Emily talks about her advocacy work, specifically the 'Not a School Skiver' campaign aimed at addressing the complexities of school attendance issues among neurodivergent individuals. She highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to understanding attendance difficulties, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for systemic changes in supporting neurodivergent children in schools.
Embracing Self-Compassion and Prioritizing Wellbeing
Emily and the host discuss the importance of self-compassion, self-awareness, and prioritizing wellbeing. They touch on the significance of finding individualized coping strategies, such as journaling, breath work, and sensory tools like weighted blankets to manage anxiety and promote better sleep. Emily emphasizes the need to balance work ambitions with self-care, urging for a mindful approach to navigating life as a neurodivergent individual.
Looking towards the Future and Embracing Neurodiversity
Emily shares her hopes for the future, expressing gratitude for her early diagnoses of autism and ADHD, which have empowered her to make informed life choices. She reflects on modeling self-kindness, embracing one's neurodivergent identity, and the privilege of using her knowledge to positively impact others. Both Emily and the host highlight the significance of continuing self-exploration, advocacy, and destigmatization of neurodiversity as crucial steps towards leading fulfilling lives.
Final Reflection and Call to Action
The discussion concludes with a reflection on the journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and advocacy undertaken by Emily. The importance of sharing experiences, seeking support, and fostering a culture of understanding and inclusion for neurodivergent individuals is emphasized. The episode encourages listeners to engage in conversations, promote awareness, and prioritize their mental health and wellbeing, embracing the complexities and strengths of neurodiversity.
This week, we have the incredible Emily Katy on the podcast. Emily is an autistic 22-year-old with ADHD and OCD, an author and blogger, and a Trustee for the charity ‘Autistic Girls Network’. Her first book ‘Girl Unmasked: How Uncovering My Autism Saved My Life’ is out on March 28th.
Kate and Emily speak about:
The struggle of being autistic and ADHD in the school system
Autism stigmas and stereotypes
Finding helpful accommodations in school
Emily's 'Not a School Skiver' Campaign
Finding a better way to care for neurodivergent children in education
PDA - a desire for autonomy
Emily's journey to being diagnosed with ADHD
Emily's mental health struggles
How anxiety and OCD cycles show up for Emily
What medication has worked for Emily
Phobias and anxiety
The interplay and ebbs and flows of Autism and ADHD
