AuDHD and me

Erin
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Unmasked and unfiltered neurodivergent stories. Join me, Erin, as I chat to fellow autistic and ADHD people about their experiences of neurodivergence.

  1. Understanding PDA: Demand Avoidance and Its Impact on Neurodivergent Children with Jessie Townz

    5 DAYS AGO

    Understanding PDA: Demand Avoidance and Its Impact on Neurodivergent Children with Jessie Townz

    Understanding PDA: Demand Avoidance and Its Impact on Neurodivergent Children This episode features a heartfelt and insightful conversation about Pathologically Demand Avoidant (PDA) behavior, its misunderstood nature, and practical approaches for supporting neurodivergent children. Jessie shares her lived experience as a parent, explores the importance of framing PDA as a drive for autonomy, and discusses community support resources.Main Topics Covered: The definition and misconceptions of PDA as demand avoidanceThe importance of terminology shift from "pathological demand avoidance" to "drive for autonomy"How PDA manifests in children and adults, including behaviors like masking, dysregulation, swearing, and physical outburstsStrategies for reducing demands and framing requests to avoid escalationThe significance of understanding individual tolerance levels, sleep, hunger, and environmentThe role of support groups for parents and advocacy for school accommodationsPractical tips for daily routines, mealtime, and managing meltdownsThe impact of emotional regulation and nervous system-based interventionsCommunity resources and how to connect with others for supportResources & Links: Connect with Jessie: The PDA Society – Advocacy and information on PDALinda K. Murphy’s book on Declarative Language (search for exact title) – Effective communication strategiesPDA Parents Circle – Community and support network setup by JessieInstagram Profile of Jessie – For daily updates, resources, and community supportInstagramWebsite (coming soon!)Note: The insights shared in this episode aim to normalize neurodivergence and encourage tailored support that respects individual needs and autonomy.

    35 min
  2. Living, Loving, and Supporting Autism: Insights from James Hunt

    4 MAY

    Living, Loving, and Supporting Autism: Insights from James Hunt

    In this episode I chat to the inspirational James Hunt. James is a devoted father and advocate for autism awareness. He shares his experiences raising two autistic sons and building a supportive community through social media and his clothing brand. We explore the nuances of communication, acceptance, and the power of connection in family life with autism. In this episode: James shares his motivations behind creating the "Stories About Autism" Instagram account and the impact it has had on his family and others.The significance of community, sharing, and catharsis in mental health and advocacy.Deep insights into non-speaking versus non-verbal communication and the importance of understanding different ways autistic individuals communicate.Celebrating small joys and moments of achievement, especially breakthroughs in communication like texting.The story behind James Hunt's clothing brand advocating neurodiversity and its role in fostering acceptance and connection.The process of writing a heartfelt book about navigating autism, life's unexpected challenges, and finding hope amid difficulty.James's hopes for his sons' future, emphasizing independence, happiness, and experiencing the world fully.Practical advice for families, parents, and allies to create inclusive environments and embrace neurodivergence.Resources & Links: Love Needs No Words - James Hunt's BookStories About Autism InstagramSAA Clothing InstagramJames Hunt's Advocate JumperInstagramFacebookWebsite Note: James Hunt’s book "Love Needs No Words" is available now at major bookstores, including Amazon and local independents. The shop in Burnham-on-Crouch in Essex offers community-focused support and merchandise, that encourage acceptance and understanding worldwide.

    37 min
  3. Managing Clutter in Neurodivergent Households with Caroline Thor

    27 APR

    Managing Clutter in Neurodivergent Households with Caroline Thor

    In this episode, Caroline Thor, a professional organizer and Konmari consultant, shares practical insights specifically tailored to neurodivergent households. We explore personalized strategies for managing clutter, routines, and overwhelm, emphasizing that what works for one family may not work for another. Key topics: The importance of personalized and flexible organizing systems for neurodivergent familiesHow to approach clutter and tidying when children and parents are neurodivergentThe impact of environment on neurodivergent wellbeing and calmnessPractical tips for managing children's bedrooms, toy clutter, and routinesStrategies for adults to maintain tidiness and reduce overwhelmUsing gamification, timers, and visual labels to foster independence and consistencyThe significance of knowing what "good enough" looks like for your familyHandling emotional reactions to clutter and physical space managementThe benefits of systems like "tidy in 15 minutes" and body doubling sessionsAccepting individual differences and avoiding judgment in household organizationLiving Clutter Free Forever PodcastCaroline Thor - WebsiteMarie Kondo's The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie KondoKonmari MethodLabels and Storage SolutionsInstagramWebsite

    47 min
  4. Rethinking Autism and ADHD: An Inclusive & Neuro-Affirming Perspective with Dr. James Winkworth

    20 APR

    Rethinking Autism and ADHD: An Inclusive & Neuro-Affirming Perspective with Dr. James Winkworth

    Rethinking Autism and ADHD: An Inclusive & Neuro-Affirming Perspective with Dr. James Winkworth. Discover how recent developments challenge traditional views on autism and ADHD. This episode offers insights into neurodivergent experiences, diagnostic practices, and the importance of affirming identities, especially for girls and women. Key Topics: The evolution of autism diagnosis and understandingWhy autism and ADHD often go unnoticed in girls and womenThe limitations of traditional assessment tools like ADOS and alternativesThe role of masking in masking neurodivergent traitsThe importance of neuroaffirming practices and cultural differences in understanding autismHow societal narratives impact mental health and acceptancePractical advice for parents and educators on supporting neurodivergent childrenThe concept of "cultural difference" versus "disorder" in neurodiversityThe significance of positive self-identity and accurate information in diagnostic processesResources & Links: Cognition Clinical Psychology – Private assessment and neurodiversity supportAutism Spectrum Disorder Diagnostic Criteria – DSM-5 overviewDr. James Winkworth on LinkedInUta Thrift's Perspective on Autism Spectrum – Recent debates on masking and spectrum understandingThe Autistic Self Advocacy Network – Resources promoting neuroaffirming practicesLinkedInCognition Clinical Psychology Website Connect with Dr. James Winkworth:This episode promotes a compassionate, evolving view of neurodivergence—emphasizing respect, understanding, and the importance of authentic identities. You can find James and all his info at https://cognitionclinicalpsychology.co.uk

    56 min
  5. PMDD, Perimenopause and ADHD with Dr Helen Wall

    13 APR

    PMDD, Perimenopause and ADHD with Dr Helen Wall

    This episode features Dr. Helen Wall, a GP and menopause specialist, discussing women’s health, hormonal impacts on mental health, and the importance of personalized treatment approaches. We explore PMDD, hormone sensitivity, and how hormonal fluctuations influence mental and emotional well-being, especially in neurodivergent women and during perimenopause. KEY TOPICS ​The significance of body language and empathetic listening in healthcare​The underfunding and slow progress of women's health research​The influence of sex hormones on brain function and emotional regulation​The prevalence and severity of PMDD, especially its link with ADHD​Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause and their impact on mood​Progesterone sensitivity and responses to synthetic vs. body-identical hormones​The stigmas around antidepressant use and the importance of individualized care​The potential role of HRT and SSRIs in managing PMDD and menopausal symptoms​The need for better education among clinicians about female hormones’ effects​Practical tips for women to advocate for themselves in healthcare settingsResources: ​British Menopause Society​HRT - NICE Guidelines​Understanding PMDD - Scientific PaperConnect with Dr Helen: ​Instagram​Website

    37 min
  6. Understanding Autism: Personal Experiences with Erin and Jon

    6 APR

    Understanding Autism: Personal Experiences with Erin and Jon

    Join me for a slightly chaotic conversation with Jon as we explore the nuances of autism, neurodivergence, and how these experiences shape daily life. We cover everything from sensory sensitivities and special interests to social masking and shared coping strategies — a truly heartfelt, insightful and slightly crazy discussion (thanks ADHD!). In this episode: Personal stories highlighting sensory sensitivities, including fabric textures and food aversionsHow masking and masking privileges function in different environmentsThe role of special interests like Lego, Pokemon, and books in providing comfort and structureThe importance of routines, routines, and grounding rituals like matching drinks and charity shopsUnique perspectives on social communication, over-explaining, and interpreting humorThe impact of neurodivergence on management and work experiencesNavigating change: moving house, career shiftsJoy in shared passions and understanding, from TV shows like Bob’s Burgers and Fraggle Rock to collections of memorabiliaThe significance of affirming connection and community among neurodivergent individualsResources & Links: Autism Spectrum Disorder - Mayo ClinicAutism Acceptance and Neurodiversity ResourcesThe Autism Research InstituteBook: NeuroTribes by Steve SilbermanBob's Burgers - Official YouTube ChannelFraggle Rock Official SiteVinted - Buy and Sell Secondhand ClothesConnect with Jon: Jon's InstagramAuDHD or just a bit weird podcast

    1hr 8min
  7. Erin & Jon's Big AuDHD Day Out!

    21 MAR ·  BONUS

    Erin & Jon's Big AuDHD Day Out!

    Ever felt the thrill and nerves of meeting someone you've only known online? Today’s the big day! Meeting John for the first time after months of voice notes. Jon and I planned a fun day out in London, diving deep into our shared special interests! I’m juggling last-minute meal prep for the kids, and honestly? It’s a bit chaotic! But the excitement is real. Meeting someone in person after connecting online is a whole different ballgame. Will I be my true self or put on a mask? Who knows? Let’s see how this unfolds!

    15 min
  8. ADHD and perimenopause with Chrissy & Sarah

    9 MAR

    ADHD and perimenopause with Chrissy & Sarah

    In this episode I chat to Chrissy and Sarah from ADHD Peri Punks, discussing the intersection of ADHD, perimenopause, and mental health. They share their personal journeys, the challenges they faced, and the importance of community and support. The podcast aims to raise awareness about these issues, particularly for women who may be navigating similar experiences. They emphasize the need for authenticity, self-advocacy, and the importance of educating partners and family members about neurodivergence and women's health.

    53 min
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About

Unmasked and unfiltered neurodivergent stories. Join me, Erin, as I chat to fellow autistic and ADHD people about their experiences of neurodivergence.

Information

  • Creator
    Erin
  • Years Active
    2k
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Erin
  • Show Website
    AuDHD and me

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