LGBTQ+ and Neurodivergence Connection: Amy Spaulding's story highlights the high prevalence of neurodivergence among LGBTQ+ individuals and the importance of representation in helping those with ADHD feel understood, connected, and less alone in their struggles.
Individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ may have a higher proportion of neurodivergence, such as ADHD, based on personal experiences and anecdotal evidence. Amy Spaulding, an LGBTQ activist and contestant from the first series of "I Kissed A Girl," shared her story about how she related to many neurodivergent queer individuals through her openness about her ADHD. This highlights the importance of representation and the potential link between these communities. Furthermore, Amy emphasized the challenges faced by those with ADHD in school and exams, feeling different due to their unique thought patterns and difficulties focusing on tasks at hand. The story serves as a reminder that while everyone has their unique struggles, there is comfort and connection in shared experiences. Lastly, Amy's item that most represents ADHD - three vintage watches - symbolizes the scattered nature of time management for those with ADHD, as they struggle to keep track of time and prioritize tasks effectively.
Impact of ADHD Diagnosis: ADHD diagnosis can enhance understanding, tools, and support, improving academic performance and self-awareness, but it also comes with challenges and requires ongoing management
Being diagnosed with ADHD can significantly change a person's life for the better, as it provides understanding, tools, and support to manage symptoms effectively. This individual experienced a profound shift in their academic performance and self-awareness after receiving their diagnosis and medication. However, they also expressed frustration and occasional debilitation due to their ADHD, emphasizing that while it can be a powerful asset, it is not without its challenges. Interestingly, this person also noticed a possible correlation between neurodivergence and the LGBTQ+ community, though more research is needed to confirm this observation. The support of family and friends in understanding and accommodating their needs has been crucial for the individual's journey towards acceptance and success.
Supportive Networks and Personal Growth: Having a supportive network, like family or chosen friends, can significantly impact personal growth and emotional well-being, but one must navigate societal expectations and internalized insecurities while embracing uniqueness and prioritizing self-care.
Having a supportive network, or 'tribe', is crucial for navigating life's challenges. This individual's experience of growing up with queer sisters and finding their chosen family at university highlights the profound impact such a support system can have on personal growth and emotional well-being. They share how their tribe has provided understanding, acceptance, and a sense of belonging that transcends traditional familial bonds. However, this individual also discusses the challenges they face due to societal expectations and internalized insecurities, particularly around being perceived as 'too much' or 'annoying'. They emphasize the need to navigate these obstacles while embracing one's uniqueness and learning to prioritize self-care. Lastly, the individual opens up about their struggles with achieving ambitions and maintaining focus, highlighting the complexity of balancing personal growth and self-imposed expectations. Their experiences serve as a reminder that everyone has unique challenges and it is essential to acknowledge and address them while continuing to pursue goals and aspirations.
Creative Outlets as Coping Mechanisms: Creativity can help in coping with difficult experiences like heartbreak or neurodivergence. It serves as a distraction, self-expression, therapy, and way to navigate challenges, especially when supported by understanding partners and community.
Creativity can play a significant role in coping with difficult experiences such as heartbreak and neurodivergence. The interviewee shared how her first breakup led to the start of her jewelry-making venture, which helped distract her from her emotions while also keeping busy during the COVID-19 lockdown. This creative outlet served as a means of self-expression and therapy, ultimately helping her navigate through a challenging time. Moreover, the interviewee's experience sheds light on the importance of understanding and support in romantic relationships, particularly when neurodivergence is involved. Awareness and patience can help prevent misunderstandings and resentment, as demonstrated by her partner's compassionate approach to her ADHD. Lastly, the conversation highlights the power of community in overcoming shyness and embracing one's unique identity, especially for neurodiverse individuals. Social media, concerts, and other communal experiences can provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and find support.
Impact of Authentic Representation: Authentic representation in media, especially for underrepresented groups like the LGBTQ+ community, can significantly boost confidence, foster self-acceptance, and provide a transformative influence on individuals' lives.
The power of community and representation can significantly impact individuals' lives, especially in underrepresented groups such as the LGBTQ+ community. This was demonstrated by a group of fans who met through social media and found solace and camaraderie at concerts. For the speaker, this reality TV show provided queer representation and a platform to embrace their identity. The experience not only boosted their confidence but also allowed them to be open about their ADHD, further enhancing self-acceptance. Despite concerns about editing and the potential impact on mental health, the positive response from viewers has been overwhelmingly uplifting. This story highlights the importance of authentic representation in media and the transformative power it can have on people's lives.
Media Representation: Authentic queer representation in media creates inclusivity and self-recognition, while embracing differences is crucial for happiness and confidence
Authentic representation matters greatly in media, particularly when it comes to the queer community. Actress Amy Poehler's character in her show has challenged stereotypes by portraying a diverse range of queer experiences, creating a sense of inclusivity and self-recognition among viewers. This positive impact outweighs any negative feedback, making it all worthwhile for Poehler. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of embracing one's differences and not conforming to societal norms in order to find happiness and confidence. As she navigates her own struggles with ADHD, rejection, and insecurities, she encourages others to celebrate their unique qualities and step outside the box, just as she did when she moved to Italy to pursue love and self-discovery.
Leveraging Stardom for Positive Change: Interviewee uses thrilling experiences to advocate for ADHD awareness, queer representation, and serves as a role model, emphasizing healthy lifestyle and maintaining creativity through their unpredictable nature.
The interviewee sees their thrilling and exciting experiences as a means to discover their potential and use their voice for good. They intend to leverage their newfound stardom to advocate for ADHD awareness, queer representation, and be a role model for those who lack one. The unpredictable nature of their ADHD provides them with bursts of creativity and energy when needed, which they find exciting and valuable. They also emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle through looking good, eating well, and drinking water. Despite their busy life and immense pressure to live up to expectations, they are determined to make a positive impact. In terms of impulsivity, they share an amusing story about an accidental jump resulting in injury but remain unfazed by the experience. Overall, this individual is using their unique experiences and talents to inspire others and create change.
"Fitting in is BORING!" - Amy Spalding Dissects Late ADHD Diagnosis
ADHD Chatter
111 Episodes
Recent Episodes from ADHD Chatter
5 Simple Tricks to HACK Your ADHD - Dr James Kustow
Dr James Kustow is a leading London-based Consultant Psychiatrist and a trained integrative psychotherapist, working in one of the few specialist NHS Adult ADHD services in the capital.
Chapters:
00:00 Trailer
01:09 A message from our sponsor: Tiimo
03:53 ADHD item reveal
04:21 Is there a displacement of energy in someone with ADHD in which they use energy in places that Neurotypical people might not and is there a knock on effect onto their physical health because of this?
07:02 How have you seen undiagnosed ADHD impact a person's mental health and then their physical health?
08:36 How to unmask after an ADHD diagnosis
13:06 What is the solution for RSD
18:54 How to stop being a people pleaser
20:52 Is there a theme you've noticed with regards to the time in a person's life when they might come to you for an ADHD diagnosis and why would that be?
29:03 Why is ADHD so objectively hard to prove to a cynic who might not think it's a legitimate diagnosis?
32:00 What would you say to someone who says ADHD doesn't exist and isn't a legitimate diagnosis?
33:44 What are the 3 biggest ADHD myths that you'd like to debunk if you could?
34:58 Do you notice with patients that you diagnose a change in their state of mental health after they've been given a reason for their behaviour?
38:37 ADHD item explanation (night owl)
43:29 The ADHD agony aunt (Washing machine of woes)
49:46 How do I know if I've got Executive Dysfunction, or if I'm just lazy AND how can I explain this to my partner who might just think I'm making excuses?
52:50 How to THRIVE with ADHD
56:36 Can you explain exactly what emotional dysregulation is and if it might vary from sex to sex?
01:03:15 Can a person hack their ADHD to become more productive?
01:08:38 A letter from the previous guest (3 rules to live by)
01:10:03 Behind the scenes clips + signing the ‘out of the box’ canvas
Buy James's book 👉 https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Thrive-Adult-ADHD-Productivity/dp/1785044524
Visit The Grove Practice 👉 https://www.thegrovepractice.com/profle/dr-james-kustow/
Get started with Tiimo for free on mobile or web by following this link:
https://tiimo.onelink.me/w6CP/AlexPartridge
Producer: Timon Woodward
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Bitesize: 3 ADHD Strategies To Unlock “God Mode Productivity” - Dr Alex George
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"Fitting in is BORING!" - Amy Spalding Dissects Late ADHD Diagnosis
Amy is best known as the breakout star from BBC’s groundbreaking queer reality show I Kissed a Girl. Today, she brutally opens up about her late ADHD diagnosis, and shares the many realisations she's had along the way.
Chapters:
00:00 Trailer
01:01 A message from our sponsor: Tiimo
03:29 ADHD item reveal
03:53 So, a question that might have some layered answers, but, when was your first memory of feeling different?
06:22 Did your ADHD diagnosis mean a lot to you?
09:15 Is there a high proportion of neurodivergence in the gay community from your experience?
10:05 And did I read somewhere that both of your sisters are gay? Are they both also neurodivergent too?
10:18 What was your parent's response to firstly the collective Neurodivergence?
11:58 How do you think you would have coped through your various iterations of learning that you're "different" without the support of your siblings?
13:56 What is the importance to you of surrounding yourself with your “tribe"
14:57 Have you ever been told you're "too much" for someone, either as a friend, or as a partner, or in the dating world?
16:14 ADHD struggles
17:34 How do you personally deal with heartbreak?
18:45 And how would you describe real love from your own personal emotionally complex ADHD mind's experience?
20:48 ADHD item explanation
21:39 The ADHD agony aunt segment (The washing machine of woes)
24:48 What led you to become part of the Reality TV show "I Kissed A Girl" and why did you choose to do it?
26:57 I don't know how the edit the show, but I imagine things are changed and fabrciated a bit to fulfill a certain narrative. For someone with ADHD and maybe RSD, that's a huge risk to take.
28:12 How has the social media response been and has it impacted you or your family either negatively or positively?
32:09 How does RSD manifest in your and is it something you've had to struggle through your whole life?
33:03 Having spoken to you now, I'd say you're the image of confidence. What insecurities might you have that you think you've done such a great job in masking that nobody would ever guess you think them about yourself?
34:40 The feeling of not fitting in a box must be something quite familiar to you now! What advice would you give to someone who doesn't feel like they are fitting in when they are desperate to?
35:36 What is it about you and your character that has been able to navigate through so many "against the grain" moments in your life and come out the other side so confident and happy?
36:19 What is your life after the show going to be like in terms of the parts you can control (i.e what are you going to do with your new found stardom) and the parts you can't control (i.e being known for a Reality TV show)?
37:45 What is it about being ADHD that you'd miss hugely if you were to suddenly become Neurotypical overnight?
38:36 A letter from the previous guest
39:40 Behind the scenes footage, posting the letter & signing the ‘out of the box’ canvas
Find Amy on Instagram 👉 https://www.instagram.com/amy_spalding/?hl=en
Producer: Timon Woodward
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Bitesize: Sara Pascoe & husband share ADHD marriage survival tips
Legendary comedian, Sara Pascoe & comedian husband, Steen Raskopoulos, share how ADHD shows up in their marriage and how they cope.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
EXCLUSIVE: Martine McCutcheon dissects ADHD diagnosis for the first time
Martine McCutcheon is an actress, best known for her roles in Eastenders & Love Actually, but today she opens up about her late ADHD diagnosis.
Chapters:
00:00 Trailer
01:20 A message from our sponsor: Tiimo
04:39 The ADHD item reveal
05:13 A simple question to start, but an important one, when was your first memory of feeling different?
08:26 Your upbringing in Hackney was tumultuous to say the least. Do you think, from memory, your childhood is linked to your ADHD in any way?
09:27 Why do you think you were diagnosed so late in your life?
21:07 You started performing very early in your life. How was it as a child to be a performer and how did that detract from your academia?
28:15 Many viewers of the podcast will of course recognise you from Eastenders as the iconic character Tiffany.
30:34 What is the pressure like being in the UKs most watched Soap Opera for such a long run?
34:00 It’s quite rare for an actor to be broadcast so consistently to a whole nation and be known so well for that role and it must be very surreal, how did your RSD deal with this particular strain of fame and interactions with the public & press?
37:31 Do you find yourself having been drawn to other neurodivergent minds either personally or professionally?
43:16 Does ADHD affect your ability to learn acting lines
44:46 A huge thing we speak about often on the podcast is imposter syndrome. Have you ever experienced this and did you experience this leaping from a Soap Opera into a Hollywood movie?
49:53 Now you've been diagnosed with ADHD, if you could sit down and have a word with a younger version of Martine just at the moment she's been told she'll be on the country's most beloved Soap Opera, what would you say to her?
56:41 A message from our sponsor: Stasis
58:09 Have you grown to love yourself, feel comfortable in your own skin and everything that entails and did that journey start pre-diagnosis? Or with the diagnosis?
01:05:44 How does your anxiety manifest itself and has this been a struggle in your past?
01:14:27 Reflecting on My Fair Lady
01:20:31 ADHD item explanation
01:22:02 The Washing Machine of Woes
01:24:16 You’ve been away from the public eye for a while, has that been good for you?
01:27:56 In hindsight, do a lot of your behaviours make sense to you now that you have an ADHD diagnosis and if so, which ones?
01:29:50 How would your children describe your ADHD and various neurodivergent eccentricities?
01:31:37 Why was it important to come on here and discuss it today?
01:33:49 If you could sit down and have one conversation with one person from your past, with the fresh perspective of being diagnosed with ADHD, who would it be with and why?
01:38:34 Letter from previous guest (rules to live by)
01:40:00 Behind the scenes clip & signing the ‘out of the box’ canvas
Get started with Tiimo for free on mobile or web by following this link:
https://tiimo.onelink.me/w6CP/AlexPartridge
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Producer: Timon Woodward
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"I wouldn't change him for anything!" - An ADHD parent & autistic son's journey
"I was SCARED to let someone love me!" - Jordan Stephens Dissects ADHD Diagnosis
'ADHD caused my divorce!' - 5 Vital Lessons From a Late Diagnosed ADHD Woman - Stacey Duguid
Bitesize: 3 Important Realisations From A Late Diagnosed ADHD Woman
Kate Spicer shares her important post ADHD diagnosis realisations. Kate is a lifestyle journalist who has written for Vogue, the Sunday Times, The Times, the Daily Mail and the Evening Standard.
Read Kate's Substack 👉 https://katespicer.substack.com/archive
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