WARNING: This episode does contain explicit language

Autism and ADHD were always thought of as mutually exclusive conditions, but in recent years it’s become possible to get a diagnosis of both.

Now, more and more people are recognising they have traits of both autism and ADHD, commonly known as ‘AuDHD’. But because of the opposing nature of these neurotypes, ‘AuDHD’ can feel like an internal ‘tug-of war’.

In this episode Sonia Gray speaks to Rich Rowley and Annabelle March, who describe their lived-experience as AuDHDers.

And Clinical Psychologist Sarah Watson, talks about the challenges, and strengths that come with these unique minds.

GUESTS:

• Dr Sarah Watson, Clinical Psychologist, Totally Psyched
• Rich Rowley
• Annabelle March

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WARNING: This episode does contain explicit language

There’s been a sharp rise in the number of adults seeking ADHD assessments, and for many a diagnosis can be the answer to a lifetime of struggle.

Musician Anika Moa was diagnosed with ADHD a few years ago. She tells Sonia Gray about the mental health battles she’s endured, and the positive changes a diagnosis has made to her life.

And ADHD coach, Alex Campbell says that ADHD is about much more than focus and attention. He explains how Executive Functions work and says the key factor is that ADHD brains are driven by interest, not importance.

Guests:

• Anika Moa
• Alex Campbell, ADHD Coach

Resources:

• VIA Character Strengths
• The six cluster of Executive Functions
• ADHD NZ

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The whirr of an air conditioner; the feeling of socks on your feet; the sound of other people breathing: Sensory challenges are arbitrary, but they can cause acute distress. In this episode, host Sonia Gray talks to three guests who experience the world in BOLD

And Sensory Integration Specialist, Elen Nathan, unpacks what’s happening in the eight sensory systems, and how we can best support those who have sensory sensitivities. She also explains why chicken nuggets are the one food most kids can eat.

GUESTS:

• Elen Nathan, Occupational Therapist, The Playful Place
• Amber-Rose
• Nikolas
• Bec
• Annabelle

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Season Two of the award-winning No Such Thing as Normal returns from July 6th across NZ Herald, iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OCD is largely thought of as an aversion to germs and excessive hand washing, but it’s far more complicated than that. Obsessive thoughts can be around almost anything, and the compulsive behaviour that accompanies it can be debilitating for the individual and their whānau.

Up to 80 000 New Zealanders live with OCD but less than 10% have sought treatment.

In this final episode of the series, Sonia talks to 17-year-old Poppy, who gives a brave insight into her OCD. And we hear from some of the many people and groups who are driving change in the neurodiversity space.

Guests:

Poppy Armiger

Helena Armiger

Jock Matthews Rojolie Clinic

Professor David Coghill AADPA

Darrin Bull

Jo Charman Autism NZ

Tanya Blakey Autism NZ

Susan Haldane Mind Over Manner

Rich Rowley Brain Badge

Facebook: Kids Wired Differently

Instagram: nosuchthingasnormalpodcast

Resources OCD:

OCD NZ

Fixate Facebook Group

Other Resources:

ADHD NZ

Autism NZ

Dyslexia NZ

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dyslexia is still thought of a problem with reading and writing but that’s just a small part of the picture; those who are dyslexic experience the world in a completely different way.

This episode looks at some of the lesser-known dyslexic characteristics, the best ways to support dyslexic learners and we look at how ‘shame’ is such a huge issue for those who learn differently.

Documentary: Unlocking Potential

Guests:

Kimberley Crossman

Dr Ruth Gibbons www.ruth-gibbons.com

Vanessa Victor Remarkable Minds

Helen Armiger

Ruby Armiger

Elliot Jones Unlocking Potential

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Neurodivergent people respond to the environment in unique ways. Occasionally, if their nervous systems are overwhelmed, the body responds by going into a meltdown.

Sensory overload, communication challenges and sensitivity to demands can all contribute to this temporary loss of control of behaviour. We’re often quick to judge the behaviour we’re seeing, but this is just the tip of the iceberg.

In this episode Sonia talks to a dad who has radically changed his parenting style to support his ADHD/Autistic children. And we hear from neurodivergent people about what causes a meltdown and what the experience feels like for them.

Guests:

Rob Newlove Parenting Unique Children

Sophie Newlove

Matt Frost

Nick Marsh

Lucy Charles Paediatric OT

Dani

Sharyn Gousmett Willow Corner

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although we think of ADHD as being a mostly male condition, it is just as prevalent in females. However, the diagnosis rates tell a different story - females are less than half as likely to be identified as having this neurological condition. Women tend to be better at suppressing and internalising their emotions.

But things like Rejection Sensitivity Disorder, intolerance to boredom, poor executive function and time blindness are very real, and they can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.

In this episode, we look at ways we can work with the ADHD brain - rather than against it - by identifying the many strengths of ADHD. And Sonia chats to broadcaster Hayley Holt about her experience as a late-diagnosed ADHDer.

Guests:
Dr. Sarah Watson Totally Psyched

Hayley Holt
David Coghill AADPA
Rich Rowley Brain Badge
Alex Campbell

Resources: ADHD NZ

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.