Reflections

 

Something I didn’t anticipate when starting the process of assessing my kids for neurodivergence was how fully it would bring me face to face with my own AuDHD again. Not just the diagnosis, but the 47-year history of living undiagnosed.

The shame and guilt I carried through childhood because I couldn’t do “normal.”

The teasing from peers for being weird or doing what I now understand was stimming.

The constant demands to try harder, stop being lazy, focus more, and stop being so sensitive.

These are things I know my kids have experienced too. And now, I can reassure them that nothing is wrong with them. If anything, they carry unique and powerful gifts that come with being neurodivergent. They are creative, imaginative, innovative, empathetic, and resilient.

Still, that isn’t always enough when the social, academic, or day-to-day struggles come marching in. But I can be here for them by letting them know I’ve been through it too. I can trumpet that being neurodivergent is nothing to be ashamed of.

Instead, I can give them the accommodations, understanding, and advocacy I wish I’d had.

We can journey through this wonderful world together.

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