ANOMALOUS with Em Rusciano

In the final episode of Anomalous we’ll be looking at all of the practical things you need to know when it comes to being diagnosed. We explore what to expect when you go to the doctors office, how much it will cost, how much time it’ll take and how you can talk to your family and friends about being neurodivergent. We’ll also be discussing “the overdiagnosis epidemic”. Are ADHD and autism really being overdiagnosed? Or does this increase in diagnosis speak to a broader and more important societal trend in how we view mental health?Plus, we talk to Senator Jordon Steele-John from The Greens around policy surrounding the ADHD Senate Inquiry and also speak to writer Matilda Bosely about her own experience getting diagnosed.Find out more about Senator Jordon Steele-JohnFind out more about Matilda BoseleyJoin the Anomalous community.

Katie Koullas, founder of Yellow Ladybugs, shares her mission to empower autistic girls and gender-diverse individuals. The conversation highlights the importance of community support for parents of neurodivergent children. They discuss navigating the often-challenging landscape of parenting, the role of sensory toys for self-regulation, and the impact of toxic positivity. They advocate for a compassionate and nuanced approach to neurodiversity, emphasizing personalized support and acceptance in creating nurturing environments.

Dr. Joey, an expert in autistic burnout and attention variability, and Chris Varney, CEO of I-CAN Network, discuss the intersection of neurodivergence and workplace stress. They shed light on the challenges autistic individuals face, including sensory overload and emotional regulation. Personal stories reveal the impact of masking and the dire need for accommodations. The conversation highlights the value of neurodiversity in the workplace, advocating for environments that embrace unique talents and perspectives, ultimately pushing for a more inclusive future.

Em, a passionate neurodiversity advocate with ADHD, is joined by her son Elio, who also experiences the nuances of neurodivergence. They share their personal journeys, discussing the complexities of autism and ADHD. Em reflects on her childhood struggles with masking and societal pressures. The duo highlights the importance of recognizing neurodivergent identities, criticizing outdated perceptions, and emphasizing the significance of the neurodiversity movement in fostering acceptance and understanding.

Em shares her personal journey with ADHD and her insights into the neurodiversity movement. Joined by her son Elio, they dive into the challenges of masking and identity struggles faced by neurodivergent individuals. Em highlights the psychological toll of conforming to societal expectations, while Elio provides a child's perspective on growing up neurodivergent. They discuss the importance of supportive communities and the complexity of reconciling one's true self with the world around them.

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.

This is Anomalous - a love letter to the neurodivergent community and a roadmap for neurotypical people.