My Valentine

Learning I'm Neurodivergent

       
                 

In my younger years, some people would playfully and innocently jab that I had ADHD or was autistic. There was a stigma about both when growing up. There was definitely a huge negativity surrounding depression. I've had it ingrained in me that all three are weaknesses. 

Even if society has become far more accepting regarding neurodiversity and mental health, there are still certain misconceptions and distorted beliefs surrounding them. I think this is why I've been feeling caught in a tornado of emotions and thoughts while coming to terms with everything. There is the relief of finally having some answers and explanations for certain challenges and internal struggles I've had my whole life, even if the label can be hard to comprehend. 

There is gratitude for how many amazing people have come alongside and offered support and strategies since November. But the years of that stigma still haunt me. I am now trying to rediscover who I am and figure out what that means going forward. 

And if I had a time machine, I could answer those mocking questions and jabs with a 'Why, yes, I do have that.' 

I apologize for the past few years not having the promised articles and podcasts. I'm realizing I was burnt out and not dealing well with a lot of emotions and thoughts I didn't grasp. I am finally on the road to understanding.

This journey will provide tools for me to be more empathetic, compassionate, and understanding to others. It is definitely a hard path I hope to incorporate what I discover more into my creative projects as I provide understanding to myself and others who may need it.


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