How it Works
This is the overall approach I see working for AuDHDers (whether or not you work with me)
First... why is life so hard for us?
There are few AuDHD-specific resources. We have unique challenges, which most approaches fail to explain, let alone address.
Novelty & Routine
We need novelty and routine. Yes, those are often at odds with each other. It's frustrating to spend days or weeks on a new system, just to have your brain throw it out the window within a month or two.
Monotropic Focus
We're very monotropic, meaning we go deep into interests and ignore things we find boring. Transitions are difficult. Our brains make connections that others don't understand. Our needs and preferences can seem extreme.
Sensory Seeking & Overwhelm
We need stimulation! And it can quickly become overwhelming. Our sensory needs can vary day by day, making it difficult to plan ahead. Which feeds back into the Novelty & Routine challenge.
1. Self-Discovery
Finding AuDHD resources can help to understand yourself. You may rethink your entire past in this new context.
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What works for you and what doesn't? Where are you in life, and how did you get there?
We validate and unshame where you are right now. You are not your thoughts, and you are not your accomplishments.​
2. Feel Better First
Feeling better first means two things: easy wins, and practical tools for quick relief.
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Improving mood and day-to-day life with simple approaches lets your body relax from the stress cycle. The body fights what it finds unsafe.
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When you feel better first, everything else feels more possible.
3. Address Core Needs
​From a more safe frame of mind, you can zoom out to figure out what changes could have the biggest impact. Do you need to move, change careers, set boundaries, get better sleep?
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Problem-solving feels completely different for an open and curious mind, which becomes possible as you feel better.
4. Integrate / Implement
To implement once the dopamine wears off, you need support. That could include loved ones, therapy, friends, accountability buddies, etc.
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Change takes time (and that's annoying)! Transitions can be hard for us.
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Even introverts need support! Find a person, community, (or even AI tool) that matches your pace. Ideally it's one you can stick with for long enough to get through the boring parts of implementation.
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If you want AuDHD-specific support, Like Your Brain was designed to be exactly that!
