In this episode of ADHD reWired, Eric Tivers is joined by Mattia Mauree, an award-winning composer, poet, and host of the AUDHD Flourishing Podcast. Mattia shares their insights into the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with ADHD and autism, as they navigate trauma, self-expression, and what they describe as "attention tunnels."

Mattia opens up about their personal journey, discussing the impact of complex PTSD, disordered eating, and their late diagnoses of ADHD and autism. They explain how monotropism—having a narrower field of focus—shapes their experience as a neurodivergent person. Through the lens of monotropism, Mattia explores how being stuck in an attention tunnel can make transitioning to different tasks or social situations feel overwhelming and distressing.

Eric and Mattia dive deep into the intersections of trauma and neurodivergence, examining how neurodivergent brains may be more easily traumatized, especially in environments that fail to meet their unique needs. They discuss the profound impact of neurodivergent parents raising neurodivergent children and the challenges of navigating systems that don’t support their differences.

This conversation also highlights the importance of self-expression in healing and flourishing. Mattia explains how self-expression, rather than achievement, has become central to their definition of success, emphasizing the importance of creating work that resonates emotionally, even if it doesn't fit the traditional metrics of success.

Other topics discussed include:

• The connection between hyperfocus and monotropism in ADHD and autism
• How Mattia balances creativity, self-care, and flourishing as a neurodivergent individual
• The complexity of navigating trauma in neurodivergent families
• The importance of community and support systems for neurodivergent creatives and entrepreneurs

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complex interplay of trauma, neurodivergence, and flourishing. Whether you identify as neurodivergent or are simply curious about these experiences, this conversation offers valuable insights into the importance of creating space for self-expression, healing, and growth.

• Website: AUDHDFlourishing.com
• Podcast: AUDHD Flourishing

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Our coaching groups return this fall! Learn how to manage your ADHD more effectively in a supportive, community-based program. Visit coachingrewired.com to get all the details.

In episode 541 host Eric Tivers speaks with licensed marriage and family therapist Alex Bache about digital addiction and its impact on ADHD, anxiety disorders, and OCD, particularly in adolescents and young adults. The discussion covers identifying behavioral addictions, the role of dopamine in addiction, and interventions like motivational interviewing and harm reduction. They also explore the balance between gaming for social connection and potential addiction, offering strategies for parents and individuals.

Additionally, Eric updates listeners on his coaching groups and upcoming plans for the podcast.

Topics Include:

• Addressing Digital Addiction
• Meet Alex Bache: Expert on Digital Behavioral Addictions
• Understanding Behavioral Addiction
• Game Transfer Phenomena Explained
• Interventions for Digital Addiction
• The Role of Harm Reduction
• Digital Hygiene Practices
• The Power of Accountability and Connection
• ADHD reWired Coaching and Accountability Groups
• Reflecting on Changes in ADHD Coaching
• Listener Survey
• Gaming and Social Connection
• Managing Screen Time Collaboratively
• Balancing Screen Time and Family Activities
• Recognizing Digital Addiction
• Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with Alex at www.resetfromtech.com

Welcome back to another episode of ADHD reWired. Our guest today is Dr. Gilly Khan, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with children, teens, and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. In this episode, Dr. Khan shares her personal journey with ADHD, discusses the impact of hormonal fluctuations on ADHD symptoms, and offers practical advice on improving emotional regulation and social skills.

Dr. Gilly Khan was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 33, a revelation that came as no surprise to her. Like many women, she had suspected for years that she might have ADHD. Her journey towards diagnosis began when she noticed ADHD symptoms in her young daughter, leading her to seek a diagnosis for herself. Encouraged by a colleague who was open about her ADHD diagnosis, Dr. Khan decided to embrace her neurodiversity and advocate for herself and her clients.

One of the most significant insights Dr. Khan offers is the connection between hormones, particularly estrogen, and ADHD symptoms. She explains that hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact mood, memory, and overall ADHD symptoms. This is crucial for women, especially during periods of hormonal change such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.

Dr. Khan shares her personal experience with migraines, which she began having in college, and later discovered were linked to estrogen levels. Her experience highlights the importance of considering hormonal influences when diagnosing and treating ADHD in women.

Dr. Khan emphasizes that medication can significantly help reduce ADHD symptoms, including emotional dysregulation. However, she also discusses the importance of practical strategies to manage emotions. One key approach is to take a time-out when feeling overwhelmed and practice coping skills like deep breathing in a calm environment before re-engaging with the situation.

Dr. Khan's recommendation to include parents in the process is particularly insightful. Coaching parents to help their children recognize emotional dysregulation and use coping strategies can make a significant difference.

Addressing social skills, Dr. Khan discusses the effectiveness of social skills groups, especially when tailored to the needs of neurodivergent individuals. She notes the importance of applied practice and the role of parents in coaching their children outside of therapy sessions.

For adults with ADHD, Dr. Khan suggests finding activities and clubs that align with their interests to facilitate meeting like-minded individuals. She also highlights the importance of planning social interactions, just like planning professional activities, to maintain relationships.

Both Eric and Dr. Khan share personal anecdotes about the challenges of remembering names and maintaining social connections. Practical tips such as using a planner to schedule social activities and taking photos to remember names illustrate how even small strategies can make a big difference.

Dr. Khan stresses the importance of self-advocacy and educating oneself about ADHD. She advises seeking out credible resources and being prepared to discuss specific symptoms and experiences with healthcare providers. Her message is clear: understanding and advocating for one’s own neurodiversity is crucial for effective treatment and self-acceptance.

Dr. Gilly Khan’s insights provide a deeper understanding of the complexities of ADHD, particularly in women. From the impact of hormonal fluctuations to practical strategies for emotional regulation and social skills, her expertise offers valuable guidance for both individuals with ADHD and those supporting them.

To learn more about Dr. Gilly Khan, her work, and her upcoming book on emotional dysregulation, visit her website at drgillykhan.com and follow her on Instagram at @drgillykhan.

Thank you for tuning into ADHD reWired. If you found this episode helpful, consider supporting the podcast on Patreon, and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode. Together, we can continue to learn, grow, and support one another in our ADHD journeys.

*Shownotes generated by Ai