🎧 Episode Description Hannah Daly talks openly about the long path to understanding her brain. Growing up, she knew she experienced the world differently, but dyslexia and dyspraxia seemed to explain enough at the time. It wasn’t until much later that she began to question whether there was more to it. A period of intense physical and cognitive symptoms during perimenopause became a turning point. As her ability to cope and mask began to unravel, it led her to seek answers - and eventually to diagnoses of ADHD and autism. What follows is a process of looking back, reinterpreting her life, and starting to understand herself in a completely different way. 🔑 Key Points Growing up feeling different without the language for it Hannah describes always experiencing the world differently, but early diagnoses of dyslexia and dyspraxia seemed to explain enough at the time. Masking and the effort of trying to fit in Much of her life was shaped by adapting to environments and expectations, often suppressing her own needs. Perimenopause as a turning point A sudden wave of physical and cognitive symptoms made it harder to cope and brought everything to the surface. The link between hormones and neurodivergence Hormonal changes intensified underlying ADHD and autistic traits, including memory issues, overwhelm, and sensory sensitivity. Late diagnosis of ADHD and autism Through seeking answers, Hannah went through an assessment process and received both diagnoses. Looking back with new understanding She began to reinterpret her life, recognising patterns that had always been there but previously misunderstood. Unmasking and redefining identity Diagnosis allowed her to move away from people-pleasing and start living more in line with who she is. Understanding your brain as self-compassion Learning how her brain works helped her develop better strategies and a more supportive way of living. 📚 Mentioned in this Episode ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) A neurodevelopmental condition affecting attention, impulse control, and energy regulation. Autism (Autism Spectrum Condition) A lifelong condition affecting communication, sensory processing, and social interaction. Perimenopause A hormonal transition phase that can impact mood, cognition, and physical wellbeing. ADHD, Autism, and Hormones (Emerging Research Area) Growing research explores how hormonal changes can intensify neurodivergent traits. ADHD Ireland - Support & U-Map Programme Resources and support for ADHD in Ireland. Autism and Menopause (Further Reading) Explores how menopause can affect autistic individuals. Odd Girl Out - Laura James (Book) A memoir about late autism diagnosis. Dr Mary Doherty - Autistic Doctors International Advocate and founder supporting autistic professionals. Wim Hof Method Breathing and cold exposure techniques. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Asking for accommodations and sensory needs 02:30 – What masking looks like in everyday life 04:00 – Growing up feeling “othered” 07:00 – Finding purpose through occupational therapy 10:30 – Writing her book and sharing her story 11:30 – Sudden health episode and onset of symptoms 14:30 – Perimenopause, HRT, and turning point 17:00 – ADHD and autism diagnosis 19:00 – Reframing her life after diagnosis 23:00 – Sensory needs, routines, and daily coping 27:00 – ADHD traits, focus, and conversation style 31:00 – Energy, burnout, and pacing 36:00 – Managing overwhelm and regulation strategies 42:00 – Sleep, routines, and nervous system support 47:00 – Parenting, relationships, and support systems 52:00 – Medication, exercise, and what helps 56:00 – Final reflections and helping other women Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
