In this episode, Shereen and Rach Idowu discuss Rach's journey with ADHD and her experience of being diagnosed as an adult. They also talk about Rach's transition from a civil servant to an ADHD advocate, her creation of ADHD trait flashcards, and the challenges of being a social influencer. They touch on topics such as rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) and the importance of representation in the ADHD community. In this conversation, Rachel discusses two main topics: rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) and ADHD tax. She shares her experiences with RSD, including the emotional sensitivity and coping mechanisms associated with it. Rachel also talks about the concept of ADHD tax, which refers to the costs incurred as a result of managing ADHD. She discusses the financial implications of ADHD tax and provides tips for avoiding it. Overall, the conversation highlights the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD and emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and self-care.
Host
Guests
Takeaways
ADHD can be diagnosed in adulthood, and the journey to diagnosis can be unexpected and challenging.
Transitioning from one career to another can be difficult for individuals with ADHD, but finding a job that provides mental stimulation and allows for ADHD advocacy can be fulfilling.
Creating resources like ADHD trait flashcards can simplify information and provide support for individuals with ADHD.
Being a social influencer can be overwhelming, and it's important to set boundaries and prioritize self-care.
Representation in the ADHD community is crucial, and there is a need for more diverse voices and experiences to be heard. Rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) is a common experience for individuals with ADHD, characterized by extreme emotional sensitivity and a tendency to ruminate on perceived rejection or criticism.
Coping with RSD can involve both healthy and unhealthy strategies, such as seeking support from trusted individuals, therapy, and developing healthy self-esteem.
ADHD tax refers to the costs incurred as a result of managing ADHD, including financial expenses due to impulsive spending and difficulties with managing subscriptions and financial responsibilities.
To avoid ADHD tax, individuals can take proactive steps such as educating themselves about financial matters, seeking advice from others, setting up reminders and recurring alarms, and developing healthy coping mechanisms.
It is important for individuals with ADHD to validate their own experiences and not let others' opinions or perceptions invalidate their feelings or struggles.
Self-advocacy and self-care are crucial for individuals with ADHD, and it is important to be kind to oneself and focus on personal strengths and passions.
Chapters
00:00 The Unexpected Journey to an ADHD Diagnosis
09:49 From Civil Servant to ADHD Advocate
12:21 Simplifying ADHD with Trait Flashcards
19:28 Navigating the Challenges of Being a Social Influencer
23:11 The Importance of Representation in the ADHD Community
31:52 Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD)
40:00 ADHD Tax: Financial Implications
55:29 Validating Your Experience
57:09 Self-Advocacy and Self-Care
Credits
Scripted by - Sabrina
Edited by - Shauna Campbell
Music
Written & Performed by VVN,
Produced by SolomonsSoul,
Mix & Master by ST4X.
Voice over
Shauna Campbell - @Shaye_cam
Website https://www.adhdbabes.com/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/adhdbabes/
Twitter https://www.twitter.com/adhdbabes/
If you’d like advice from our babes on our Dear Babes episodes, you can send us a voice message by clicking here or a written message by clicking here.
If you'd like to suggest a topic or be a guest on an episode, please email podcast@adhdbabes.com.