The Neuro Diaries Podcast

Unlearning Autism with Christine Doyle

In this episode Jade and Christine discuss the concept of 'unlearning Autism' which means moving past all of the preconceived ideas about what Autism looks and feels like and becoming open minded to what it actually is, and how it shows up. 
We chat about the history of stigma and discuss cultural change - are we getting any where? 
You can find Christine on Instagram and follow her work as an Psychotherapist, Autism Coach and Speaker. 
https://linktr.ee/christinedoyle.ie

Misunderstanding Multiple Personality Disorder with Maggie Walters

One not to be missed!
Maggie Walters (Author) opens up about her experience with MPD or as it is now called 'Dissociative Identity Disorder'. 
When Maggie sat down to chat with me, I really didn't know too much about MPD or what to expect from our chat. Hearing Maggie's story was truly stigma breaking.
Maggie speaks to:
- what the condition is 
- why she has it
- how it shows up for her
and addresses some of the big misunderstandings and misrepresentations around MPD in the media.
I needed to hear this story. Because the next time I meet someone that lives with MPD I'm going to be able to understand them a whole lot better and show up with kindness, compassion and support. 
 
The biggest takeaways
- MPD is a condition developed in childhood as a trauma response from extreme abuse.
- Individuals with MPD are more of a risk to themselves than to others. 
- MPD is severely misrepresented in the media. 
- Maggie has 40 alters that live in her head, every individual with MPD has a different system.
- Truly fascinating chat and so much to learn from this!
 
Grateful to Maggie for coming on and sharing her story, please take a listen and share with a friend! 
Maggie recently released an award winning memoir called SPLIT, you can find that and more at www.maggie-walters.com
 
Stay up to date with latest episodes follow @theneurodiariespodcast
 

Autism and the spiritual experience with Reanna Place

Reanna shares her experience with burnout that led her to realise she was autistic, and what it was like pursuing a diagnosis in an environment that still largely misunderstands the presentation of Autism in women.
Sharing on instagram under handle @autisticalchemist, Reanna notes how comments on healing techniques have helped her better understand and integrate parts of herself that were misunderstood and ignored as a late diagnosed autistic person.
A deep thinker and a beautiful soul, Reanna's perspectives are thought provoking and create space for new perspectives on Autism and neurodivergence. #autismdiagnosis #autism #autistimacceptance

Season One Reflections

A short and sweet episode where Jade reflections on the first season of the Neuro Diaries. 
Jade shares the idea that birthed it, the biggest challenges and the most rewarding aspects. 
Jade shares you must give yourself 'permission to suck' when starting out a new project or venture! 
Follow @jade.rose.writes for more content as we take a short mental recharge from the podcast. 

Ep 9 - Late Diagnosed Autism with Helen Elizabeth

Helen Elizabeth, (Instagram: @alchemical.botanical) a wellbeing coach for neurodivergent women, shares her personal journey and the work she does to help neurodivergent individuals manage their emotions and live with more freedom. She discusses the challenges of navigating a neurotypical world, the importance of self-acceptance, and the need for accommodations and understanding. Helen also highlights the internal presentation of autism in women and the struggles they face in getting diagnosed. She emphasizes the need for creating lives that support neurodivergent individuals and challenges the misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding autism. In this conversation, Jade Rose and Helen discuss the bittersweet experience of living with autism. They explore the traits and special interests that come with being autistic, such as a heightened appreciation for nature and a love of learning. They also address misconceptions about autism, including the idea that it is a male brain and the importance of recognizing the diverse experiences within the autism community. The conversation highlights the need for greater understanding, curiosity, and inclusivity when it comes to autism.
takeaways
Neurodivergent individuals often face challenges in navigating a neurotypical world and managing their emotions.
Self-acceptance and understanding are crucial for neurodivergent individuals to live fulfilling lives.
Accommodations and support are necessary to help neurodivergent individuals thrive.
The internal presentation of autism in women often goes unnoticed, leading to late diagnoses and a lack of support.
Creating lives that support neurodivergent individuals is essential for their well-being and success. Living with autism can be bittersweet, with both challenges and unique strengths and interests.
Autistic individuals often have intense love and appreciation for nature, beauty, and learning.
There is a wide range of special interests within the autism community, beyond the commonly associated fields of science and engineering.
Misconceptions about autism, such as the idea of a 'male brain,' can be harmful and invalidating.
It is important to recognize and create space for the diverse experiences and support needs within the autism community.
Greater understanding, curiosity, and inclusivity are needed to foster a more accepting and supportive society for autistic individuals.
keywords
wellbeing, neurodivergent, emotions, freedom, challenges, self-acceptance, accommodations, understanding, internal presentation, diagnosis, stereotypes, autism, bittersweet, traits, special interests, misconceptions, understanding, curiosity, inclusivity

Ep 8 - OCD & Postpartum Depression with Courtney Welsh

Courtney Welsh, a writer, speaker, and mental health advocate, shares her journey of raising a neurodivergent child and her own mental health struggles. She emphasizes the importance of removing the stigma around raising neurodivergent children and speaking openly about the challenges. Courtney discusses her experience with postnatal depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). She highlights the significance of therapy, medication, inner child healing, vulnerability, and self-love in her healing journey. Courtney also opens up about her past experiences of abuse and the decision she made to have an abortion to break the cycle of trauma. In this conversation, Courtney Welsh and Jade Rose discuss topics such as postpartum depression, domestic violence, and abortion. Courtney shares her personal experiences and the challenges she faced in dealing with these issues. She emphasizes the importance of seeking help and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Courtney also highlights the need for realistic representations of postnatal depression and the support that should be available to new mothers. Overall, the conversation promotes understanding, empathy, and the importance of self-care.
 
Takeaways
Removing the stigma around raising neurodivergent children is crucial for providing support and understanding to parents.
Seeking therapy and medication can be beneficial in managing mental health conditions such as postnatal depression, anxiety, and OCD.
Inner child healing, vulnerability, and self-love are essential in the healing journey.
Breaking the cycle of trauma and creating a safe and loving environment for children is a powerful way to create positive change.
Acknowledging and working through past experiences of abuse can lead to personal growth and healing. Postpartum depression can manifest differently for each person, but common symptoms include feeling heavy, having no patience, experiencing rage, and feeling a lack of joy or connection with the baby.
It is important for women to recognize the signs of postpartum depression and seek help early on. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a brave and necessary step towards healing.
The fear of having a baby taken away should not prevent women from seeking help. The healthcare system and community are there to support mothers and keep them with their babies.
There is a need for realistic representations of postnatal depression in the media, showing the range of experiences and emotions that women may go through.
Therapy and seeking help should not be reserved for when things are at rock bottom. It can be used as a preventative measure and a way to maintain mental well-being.
It is important to break the stigma surrounding mental health and to create a supportive environment where mothers feel comfortable asking for help and sharing their experiences.
Keywords
neurodivergent children, mental health, postnatal depression, anxiety, OCD, therapy, medication, inner child healing, vulnerability, self-love, abuse, abortion, trauma, postpartum depression, domestic violence, abortion, seeking help, mental health, stigma, realistic representations, support, self-care

Ep 7 - Bipolar 1 with Polly Wiseman

Polly Wiseman, a theatre maker and mental health advocate, discusses her work in the theatre space and her play 'How to Go Crazy for Good' which aims to transform the way people see mental illness. She shares her experience with bipolar disorder type 1 and describes the extreme moods and symptoms she experiences during manic and depressive episodes.
Polly talks about the challenges of managing her condition publicly and the stigma and prejudice she faces. In this conversation, Jade Rose and Polly share their personal experiences with diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and finding a supportive community.
The conversation explores the early signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder, the challenges of living with the condition, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of being neurodivergent.
Overall, the conversation aims to break down stigma, normalize mental health discussions, and provide support and understanding for those living with bipolar disorder.
Keywords
theatre, mental health, bipolar disorder, creativity, stigma, prejudice, bipolar disorder, stigma, awareness, education, support, workplace, healthcare system, diagnosis, treatment, self-advocacy, community, early signs, symptoms, neurodivergent
takeaways
Polly Wiseman is a theatre maker and mental health advocate who aims to transform the way people see mental illness through her work
She has bipolar disorder type 1 and experiences extreme moods and symptoms during manic and depressive episodes
Managing her condition publicly in the theatre industry has been challenging due to stigma and prejudice
Self-awareness, self-care, and finding a balance between work and mental health are important for managing bipolar disorder There is a need for more awareness and education about bipolar disorder to combat stigma and improve understanding.
The workplace and healthcare system should provide better support and accommodations for individuals with bipolar disorder.
Self-advocacy is crucial in navigating the healthcare system and receiving an accurate diagnosis.
Finding a supportive community can be beneficial for individuals with bipolar disorder.
Early signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder may include changes in appetite, sleep patterns, energy levels, and mood.
Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, but it is possible to find ways to manage the condition and lead a fulfilling life.
Being neurodivergent can have both positive and negative aspects, and it is important to challenge stigma and promote acceptance and understanding.
titles
Living with Bipolar Disorder: Extreme Moods and Symptoms
Transforming the Perception of Mental Illness through Theatre Embracing Neurodivergence: The Benefits and Drawbacks
Recognizing Early Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Quotes
"Our mission is to present extraordinary theatre in unexpected places"
"During a manic episode, everything seems very bright and exciting"
"The unpredictability of bipolar disorder can be frustrating and impact plans"
"I think that's when most people draw back instinctively."
"The more awareness that we can get out there is actually going to make the people who experience it be able to get help and get understanding before they get to that point."
"There are so many factors where the healthcare system is not fit for purpose, and especially when it comes to mental health.

EP 6 - Autism and ADHD with Charlie Kiley

In this episode of the Neuro Diaries podcast, Jade Rose interviews Charlie Kiley, a speaker, activist, and content creator who trains workplaces on how to be more neurodivergent friendly. Charlie shares her personal experience as a multiply neurodivergent individual and discusses the challenges she faced in getting a correct diagnosis. She also talks about her work at Kiley Consulting, where she helps bridge the gap between neurotypical and neurodivergent staff in the workplace. The conversation highlights the importance of communication and understanding in creating a supportive and inclusive work environment. The conversation explores the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the workplace and the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive environment. It highlights the stigma and lack of understanding that still exists, making it difficult for individuals to disclose their neurodivergence and receive the necessary support. The conversation also touches on the different responses people receive when they disclose their neurodivergence, ranging from supportive and understanding to dismissive and stigmatizing. The impact of neurodivergence on daily life is discussed, including difficulties with interoception, routine, socializing, and change. The conversation concludes with a focus on the positive aspects of neurodivergence, such as the ability to offer support and understanding to others and unique strengths like heightened pattern recognition.
 
takeaways
Neurodivergent individuals often face challenges in getting a correct diagnosis, especially in the UK healthcare system.
Communication and understanding are key in creating a supportive and inclusive work environment for neurodivergent staff.
There is a need for a cultural shift in organizations to prioritize the well-being and support of neurodivergent individuals.
The onus is often on the neurodivergent individual to advocate for their needs in the workplace, but there is a growing awareness of the importance of neurodiversity in organizations. Neurodivergent individuals face challenges in the workplace due to stigma and lack of understanding.
Creating a supportive and inclusive environment is crucial for neurodivergent individuals to thrive.
Disclosure of neurodivergence can elicit a range of responses, from supportive and understanding to dismissive and stigmatizing.
Neurodivergence can impact daily life, including difficulties with interoception, routine, socializing, and change.
Neurodivergent individuals possess unique strengths, such as heightened pattern recognition.
Keywords
neurodivergence, workplace, diagnosis, communication, support, inclusivity, neurodivergence, workplace, challenges, stigma, disclosure, support, understanding, responses, interoception, routine, socializing, change, positive aspects
 

Ep 5 - Bipolar 1 & Borderline with Gloriahna

In this episode of the Neuro Diaries podcast, host Jade Rose interviews Gloriana, a life coach and mental health advocate, about her journey with bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder. Gloriana shares her experiences of being in and out of mental hospitals, struggling with toxic relationships, and finding hope and pride in her journey. She also discusses the importance of medication and the stigma she faced, particularly in her past relationship. Gloriana emphasizes the power of empathy and emotions as a positive aspect of living with bipolar disorder, while acknowledging the challenges of mood cycling.
 
Takeaways
Living with bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder can involve struggles with mental hospitals, toxic relationships, and feelings of worthlessness.
Finding hope and pride in one's journey and being open about mental health can help reduce stigma and create a sense of community.
Medication can be an important tool in managing mental health conditions, and it's important to find the right treatment and support.
Embracing empathy and emotions can be a positive aspect of living with bipolar disorder, while mood cycling can be a challenging aspect.
It's important to surround oneself with understanding and supportive people who accept and validate one's experiences.
Keywords
bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, mental health, mental hospitals, toxic relationships, hope, pride, medication, stigma, empathy, emotions, mood cycling

Ep 4 - AuDHD with Hugo

In this conversation, Jade Rose and Hugo discuss neurodivergence, specifically autism and ADHD. They talk about stimming as a way to regulate and soothe, and share their personal stimming habits. Hugo shares his experience of being diagnosed with autism and how it has allowed him to understand and embrace his need for regulation. They also discuss the challenges of balancing routine and novelty-seeking, as well as the sensory sensitivities that come with autism. They touch on the use of alcohol as a coping mechanism and the importance of finding healthier alternatives. The conversation highlights the need for greater understanding and acceptance of neurodivergent individuals in society. The conversation explores the experience of living with neurodivergence, particularly autism, and the challenges faced in a neurotypical world.
 
They discuss the impact of bullying, the importance of self-acceptance, and the need for greater understanding and accommodations in society. They also touch on the concept of masking and the internalized anger that can arise from navigating a world that doesn't fully understand neurodivergent experiences. The conversation ends with a message of hope for a future where neurodivergence is accepted and accommodated without stigma.
 
Takeaways
Stimming is a common way for neurodivergent individuals to regulate and soothe themselves.
An autism diagnosis can provide a sense of self-compassion and allow for accommodations that bring joy and ease of stress.
Balancing routine and novelty-seeking can be challenging for individuals with ADHD and autism.
Sensory sensitivities are a common experience for autistic individuals, and finding ways to manage them is important.
Alcohol can be used as a coping mechanism for sensory overload, but finding healthier alternatives is crucial.
Greater understanding and acceptance of neurodivergent individuals is needed in society. Living with neurodivergence often involves masking and adapting to fit into a neurotypical world.
Bullying and invalidation can have a profound impact on the self-perception and self-acceptance of neurodivergent individuals.
Greater education and understanding are needed to create a more inclusive and accommodating society for neurodivergent individuals.
The journey of self-acceptance and unmasking is not linear and may involve setbacks, but it is essential for personal growth and well-being.
There is hope for a future where neurodivergence is accepted and accommodated without stigma.
Keywords
neurodivergence, autism, ADHD, stimming, regulation, sensory sensitivity, alcohol, coping mechanism, acceptance, neurodivergence, autism, bullying, self-acceptance, understanding, accommodations, masking, anger, hope