E27 - ADHD Advocacy with Rach Idowu

In this episode, Shereen and Rach Idowu discuss Rach's journey with ADHD and her experience of being diagnosed as an adult. They also talk about Rach's transition from a civil servant to an ADHD advocate, her creation of ADHD trait flashcards, and the challenges of being a social influencer. They touch on topics such as rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) and the importance of representation in the ADHD community. In this conversation, Rachel discusses two main topics: rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) and ADHD tax. She shares her experiences with RSD, including the emotional sensitivity and coping mechanisms associated with it. Rachel also talks about the concept of ADHD tax, which refers to the costs incurred as a result of managing ADHD. She discusses the financial implications of ADHD tax and provides tips for avoiding it. Overall, the conversation highlights the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD and emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and self-care.

Host

Shereen

Guests

Rachel Idowu

Takeaways

ADHD can be diagnosed in adulthood, and the journey to diagnosis can be unexpected and challenging.

Transitioning from one career to another can be difficult for individuals with ADHD, but finding a job that provides mental stimulation and allows for ADHD advocacy can be fulfilling.

Creating resources like ADHD trait flashcards can simplify information and provide support for individuals with ADHD.

Being a social influencer can be overwhelming, and it's important to set boundaries and prioritize self-care.

Representation in the ADHD community is crucial, and there is a need for more diverse voices and experiences to be heard. Rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) is a common experience for individuals with ADHD, characterized by extreme emotional sensitivity and a tendency to ruminate on perceived rejection or criticism.

Coping with RSD can involve both healthy and unhealthy strategies, such as seeking support from trusted individuals, therapy, and developing healthy self-esteem.

ADHD tax refers to the costs incurred as a result of managing ADHD, including financial expenses due to impulsive spending and difficulties with managing subscriptions and financial responsibilities.

To avoid ADHD tax, individuals can take proactive steps such as educating themselves about financial matters, seeking advice from others, setting up reminders and recurring alarms, and developing healthy coping mechanisms.

It is important for individuals with ADHD to validate their own experiences and not let others' opinions or perceptions invalidate their feelings or struggles.

Self-advocacy and self-care are crucial for individuals with ADHD, and it is important to be kind to oneself and focus on personal strengths and passions.

Chapters

00:00 The Unexpected Journey to an ADHD Diagnosis

09:49 From Civil Servant to ADHD Advocate

12:21 Simplifying ADHD with Trait Flashcards

19:28 Navigating the Challenges of Being a Social Influencer

23:11 The Importance of Representation in the ADHD Community

31:52 Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD)

40:00 ADHD Tax: Financial Implications

55:29 Validating Your Experience

57:09 Self-Advocacy and Self-Care

Credits

Scripted by - Sabrina

Edited by - Shauna Campbell

Music

Written & Performed by VVN,

Produced by SolomonsSoul,

Mix & Master by ST4X.

Voice over

Shauna Campbell -