ADHD, Internalised Misogyny & Really Sh*t Daydreams: Laura Mears-Reynolds
Oct 30, 2024
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Laura Mears-Reynolds, a passionate advocate for ADHD awareness, joins Dr. James Brown, host of the ADHD Adults Podcast and co-founder of ADHDadultUK. They delve into internalized misogyny, reflecting on personal past traumas and the challenges of navigating ADHD. Laura shares her love for cinema while discussing the complexities of travel planning with ADHD. Their candid conversation touches on mental health advocacy, the importance of community support, and the emotional rollercoaster of living with ADHD, all while celebrating the launch of new charitable initiatives.
Laura Mears-Reynolds reflects on her past challenges with ADHD, emphasizing the emotional weight and isolation that many individuals experience due to late diagnoses.
The podcast highlights the transformative power of community among ADHD adults, illustrating how peer support can alleviate feelings of shame and foster connection.
Laura passionately advocates for systemic changes in ADHD healthcare, calling for more accessible and compassionate support to address existing shortcomings in the treatment process.
Deep dives
Celebrating Milestones
The episode marks the end of season three and celebrates one full year of Laura's solo work on the podcast while also introducing the launch of the ADHDAF Plus charity. Laura reflects on her journey, highlighting both the challenges faced and the community built during this time. The tone oscillates between excitement for new beginnings and the recognition of the struggles carried throughout the past year. This transition is underscored by her desire to create a charity that supports ADHD adults of marginalized genders, showcasing her commitment to making a change.
Navigating ADHD and Shame
Laura delves into her past experiences with ADHD, discussing how her late diagnosis impacted her perspective on shame and self-identity. She expresses feelings of inadequacy and regret over missed opportunities, emphasizing that many with ADHD share a similar struggle, often feeling isolated in their challenges. By candidly sharing her journey, she aims to normalize conversations around ADHD and foster a sense of belonging among listeners. Throughout the discussion, there is a recurring theme of the significant emotional weight that accompanies ADHD, including the challenges of task paralysis and burnout.
Community Support and Empowerment
A key insight from the episode is the importance of community in empowering individuals with ADHD. Laura discusses how connection with others who share similar experiences can alleviate feelings of shame and isolation. She highlights initiatives like peer support groups that are vital for fostering understanding and empathy among ADHD adults. The episode emphasizes that finding one's 'tribe' can lead to transformative experiences, further reinforcing the message that nobody should feel alone in their ADHD journey.
Addressing Systemic Issues
Laura passionately addresses systemic shortcomings in the healthcare system regarding ADHD diagnosis and treatment. She advocates for a more accessible and compassionate approach to healthcare, insisting that those seeking help should not have to endure unnecessary waiting times or bureaucratic hurdles. By emphasizing the need for change, she illustrates the detrimental effects of inadequate support on individuals' mental health. This urgent call for reform aims not only to raise awareness but also to mobilize listeners towards action in advocating for better mental health services.
Authenticity and Future Endeavors
The episode closes with Laura's reflections on her journey toward authenticity and self-acceptance within the ADHD community. She acknowledges her imperfections and the pressure to conform to expectations, expressing a desire to live life genuinely and joyfully. Laura outlines her plans for the future, including focusing on the charity and writing a book, all while managing her mental well-being. This commitment to authenticity resonates deeply, as she encourages listeners to own their unique ADHD experiences and urges them to find joy in their individuality.
For the finale of Season 3 I've swapped roles with Dr James Brown of the ADHD Adults Podcast and ADHDadultUK Charity - the 1st ever ADHDAF guest - to answer the questions I've been asking for 2.5 years to conclude the season which almost didn't get released & ADHD Awareness Month 2024. Whilst we explore the themes of Internalised misogyny, ableism and RSD, this lengthy, side-questy and VERY sweary (sorry Mum) chinwag is a celebration of launching stage one of ADHDAF+ Charity and ADHDAF Emporium and all that's been overcome to continue ADHDAF solo for a whole year. And it is an ENORMOUS THANK YOU to all who have supported this podcast, the socials, the online peer support community, the live events, the retreat and ADHDAF Day. I can't say thank you enough to you all! - As explained in the episode(!!!) this cover photo is by the incredible @summonfirehotography - Editing and jingle by @sessionzservices - The playlist for all season 3 guests 'ADHD Song', including my ADHDAF Anthem is available to listen to HERE - the amazing question came from community LEGEND Lauren!
I must admit I was cringing at the amount of times I swear in this episode - likely because it turned into a relaxed conversation between two friends. HOWEVER, I realised that if I edited the swearing out, I would only be doing so to appease my own internalised misogyny! So I've kept the swears in for that reason, and because it is symbolic of all that I've put into ADHDAF since April '22 - every single 'eff' I have to give! :) THANKS SO MUCH to James for interviewing me and for all of his support from day dot - a man who has done DOUBLE the ammont of live shows I have at 70 in the same period!!
Trigger warning: Alongside swearing we discuss some heavy topics such as: bullying, ableism, trolling, sexism, internalised misogyny, addiction, accidental injury, premature death, suicidal ideation, suicide, self harm, divorce, family and relationship struggles, bereavement, abusive relationships, self loathing, depression and anxiety.
If you are in need of support YOU ARE NOT ALONE! There is immediate help out there so please REACH OUT Search the ADHD Medication Directory if you are struggling to access medication during the national medication shortage HERE
You can connect with literally likeminded legends and support the continuation of this podcast by joining the Patreon Peer Support Community Enormous thanks to the Members for keeping this podcast going for over 2 years!
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL OF YOUR SUPPORT Please remember YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Laura x