Episode 261: Some Challenges in Neurodivergent Communication - Patricia Young

In this episode, Patricia discusses the challenges faced by AuDHDers and other neurodivergent individuals in communication, particularly regarding lack of responding to messages. She explores the concept of internalized ableism and how it affects self-perception and interactions. Patricia shares personal experiences and insights on the importance of flexibility in relationships and the need for authenticity in communication. The conversation emphasizes the struggles of neurodivergent individuals, including executive functioning challenges, and the significance of self-acceptance and understanding in navigating social situations.

HIGHLIGHTS

It’s not uncommon for neurodivergent individuals to struggle with responding to messages.
Internalized ableism can affect how we perceive our struggles.
Flexibility in relationships is helpful for understanding each other’s challenges.
People often have their own timeframes for communication.
It’s important to give ourselves permission to not always follow plans.
Authenticity in communication can foster better relationships.
Neurodivergent individuals often attract other neurodivergent friends and partners with similar experiences.
Comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy among neurodivergent individuals.
Being open about our struggles can help others feel validated.
Sensitivity is a natural part of being neurodivergent and should be embraced.

SOUND BITES

“I have so much room for that.”

“We have a hard time taking breaks.”

“It’s hard for me to not compare.”

SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT’S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

You have a right to be joyful, forgetful, ableist, non-ableist, stimmy, non-stimmy.
You’re not for everyone. Everyone’s not for you.
It’s okay to push through.
It’s okay to rest.
It’s okay to compare.
It’s okay to trust that how you show up in the world is fine and all you have to do is be you and who is meant to be in your life will be there and the people that aren’t, will drop away.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Navigating Communication Challenges
06:35 Understanding Internalized Ableism
11:39 The Struggles of Neurodivergence
17:24 The Importance of Authenticity in Relationships

PODCAST HOST

Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

HIGHLIGHTS

SOUND BITES

SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT’S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

CHAPTERS

PODCAST HOST

LINKS