WTF is AuDHD?

In this episode, we explore Pathological Demand Avoidance (more compassionately known as Pervasive Drive for Autonomy) - a profile most often linked with autism that goes far beyond being just being “stubborn.” We break down what PDA is, our understanding of it and how it's appeared in our life, and why everyday requests can feel overwhelming or even threatening - even if the demand is from within your own mind. We share personal stories of when demands have triggered resistance (sometimes without us even realising why), and unpack the differences between ADHD task resistance and PDA driven task resistance.Again, please use this episode as a jump-off to do your own research!SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastJoin our private Reddit community! Link in our Linktree Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we open up about our personal journeys with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal / autoimmune issues we've experienced, using hindsight to recognise it may have all been linked to our autism and ADHD (stress!). We start exploring the connection between the brain and the gut, including how our stomach microbiome impacts our brain. We dive into emerging research linking neurodivergence with physical health and common correlations. This episode isn’t medical advice, but more a conversation to spark curiosity. We encourage you to do your own research but we just wanted to remind you that you’re not the only one with a gassy gut!Find the research article we reference HERE. Join our private community on Reddit - direct link in our Linktree.SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transitions can be some of the hardest moments for people with ADHD, autism, or both - even when we’re looking forward to what’s next. Paige and Ellie have had a few ephiphanies recently about how transitions have affected them throughout their life. In this episode, we explore why shifting from one activity, environment, or phase of life can feel so dysregulating, and how neurodivergent inertia plays into it. We unpack our own personal struggless and offer tips for supporting yourself and your kids through transitions.Join our Reddit community!SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcastLINKTREE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Khurram Sadiq, a neurodevelopmental psychiatrist and AuDHD advocate, discusses the complexities of identifying AuDHD traits, common misdiagnoses, and the impact of familial neurodivergence. He offers insights into the subconscious nature of masking and how to safely begin unmasking. The conversation also highlights important workplace accommodations for neurodivergent individuals, effective strategies for managing ADHD burnout, and the need for improved clinician training to better recognize these conditions. Dr. Sadiq provides hope and practical advice for those feeling overwhelmed.

Dr. Khurram Sadiq, a renowned psychiatrist and AuDHDer, shares his insights on navigating the complexities of AuDHD—a combination of autism and ADHD. He discusses his own diagnostic journey and the emotional toll of conformity in a neurotypical world. The conversation delves into the influence of gender and culture in diagnoses, revealing why many remain misunderstood for years. Dr. Sadiq also explores the overlap between ADHD and autism, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of these neurodivergent experiences.

This week, we’re diving into a big one: having children as an AuDHD adult. Neither of us are parents (yet - or possibly ever), so this is not a how-to, but an open conversation about the thoughts, fears, and feelings we have around parenting as neurodivergent people.We speak honestly about the differences in our perspectives (Paige and Ellie don’t feel the same way!), and share the thoughts and experiences sent in by our community - from those who are already parenting with AuDHD, to those who’ve chosen not to, and everything in between.One day, we’ll revisit this topic with actual parents and experts - but for now, consider this a first step in holding space for the complicated and very human feelings that come with the idea of having kids when your brain is wired like ours.LINKTREE@wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're diving into what it’s really like navigating work with AuDHD. We chat about our personal job histories - the burnout, the boredom, the passion, and the pivots - and why sticking to one career path can feel impossible. If you’ve ever loved and hated your job at the same time, or blamed yourself for not being “cut out” for work, this one’s for you. You’re not lazy - you’re likely unsupported. We also remind you (and ourselves) to not lose self-compassion - it's so important to not turn on yourself!LINKTREESOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Delve into the complexities of living with both ADHD and autism, where routine clashes with chaos, leading to unique challenges and burnout. Explore personal stories that reveal the inadequacies of traditional treatments while highlighting the need for tailored support. Discover the balance between perfectionism and spontaneity in hobbies. Address feelings of loneliness in social interactions and the significant role of community. Finally, hear about the creative struggles within neurodiversity and the cultural impact of the pandemic on artistic roles.

In this episode, we’re excited to be joined by Mike Cochrane (@nzpsychologyclinic), a Clinical Psychologist and fellow AuDHDer who specialises in Autistic, ADHD and AuDHD assessments. We had an insightful and validating chat about life with an AuDHD brain.Together, we unpack:Commonly missed traits in ADHD and autismHow to get a diagnosisWhy diagnosis often comes with both relief and griefStrategies for navigating executive dysfunction and overwhelmHow CBT and ACT can support AuDHDers - and when they fall shortThe recent legislation change in NZ allowing GPs to diagnose ADHDThe importance of self-understanding, unmasking, and neurodivergent-led therapyand more!We thoroughly enjoyed this chat and if you'd like more information about Mike Cochrane and his diagnosis process, head to nzpsychologyclinic.co.nzLINKTREESOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Autism or trauma - or both? In today’s episode, we (very basically) unpack the complex relationship between Complex PTSD (CPTSD) and autism. We explore the ways the two can look similar, why autistic people are more likely to experience trauma, and why it’s so important to approach self-identification with care and curiosity. We reflect on personal experiences, share research insights, and offer guidance for anyone navigating these diagnoses. With so many of you finding value in our conversations, we thought it was important to touch on this point. This episode only scrapes the top level of this topic so we strongly encourage you to do your own research.Neurodivergent insights article we reference: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/ptsd-and-autism/LINKTREESOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.