Discovering Neurodiversity: Understanding Yourself

Why Now?

You might be wondering how you’ve gone this long without a diagnosis or the realization that you’re neurodivergent. For most of your life, you may have felt that you didn’t quite fit in. Perhaps your mind worked differently from those around you, including family and friends. Alternatively, you might have noticed a behavior or trait only after a traumatic event or significant change in your life.

The answer to this realization is quite simple. Research and awareness about neurodivergent conditions are at an all-time high. When you were growing up, it’s likely that your neurodiversity was missed or dismissed due to a lack of understanding. However, today we have the resources to delve deep into our behaviors and symptoms. A simple Google search reveals a plethora of research and information. Plus, access to proper assessments and diagnoses from well-informed doctors has increased dramatically. In short, we’re now living in a world where neurodiversity is no longer swept under the rug. Because of this, it’s not uncommon to discover neurodiversity later in life.

Common Conditions Diagnosed Later in Life

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs)

ASDs include a range of conditions that fall on the autism spectrum, including Asperger's Syndrome. Severe forms of autism are often diagnosed during childhood. However, high-functioning individuals can go for years without a diagnosis.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

With ADHD, you may struggle to concentrate. You might experience periods of hyperactivity and exhibit impulsive behaviors. If you're diagnosed later in life, it’s likely you had ADHD all along, but it went unnoticed. Hyperactivity often dulls in adulthood, making it hard to identify. ADHD can complicate work and interfere with relationships.

Learning Difficulties

Learning difficulties, like dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dyspraxia, can go unrecognized for years. You may have struggled with spelling, reading, or processing numbers throughout school. In adulthood, relying on calculators and spell checkers can mask these conditions. Then, late discovery becomes more common.

Life Changes and Hidden Neurodiversity

A traumatic life event or a significant change, such as menopause, can uncover aspects of neurodiversity that you never knew existed. Menopause brings dramatic hormonal changes, which impact your brain and memory significantly. Many people report discovering their neurodiversity during menopause. The hormonal shifts can unmask thinking patterns and behaviors that were previously hidden.

For example, dropping estrogen levels can lead to difficulty concentrating and emotional regulation. If you have ADHD or dyslexia, these symptoms may become more pronounced during menopause. This revelation may shine a light on previously undiagnosed conditions. Notably, traits of autism may become more visible during this phase. A study by the British Journal of Health Psychology found that those with autism reported their condition as "impossible to mask" during menopause. If you’ve unconsciously masked your condition throughout life, menopause may help you realize that you’ve struggled with autism all along.

The Challenge and the Freedom of a New Diagnosis

Discovering neurodiversity later in life can be challenging, but it can also be freeing. Receiving any new diagnosis requires time to adjust. You might feel low, frustrated, or angry while processing this newly identified part of yourself.

In such cases, seeking one-to-one support is a great idea. Support can help you navigate through the complexities of neurodiversity, menopause, or both. I specialize in the connection between these two experiences, tailoring my coaching to your unique situation.

On the other hand, receiving a new diagnosis can also feel enlightening. Perhaps you’ve spent your life feeling out of place or that your thoughts deviated from those of your peers. Discovering your neurodiversity provides clarity to your past feelings and struggles. It offers the answers you needed all along, allowing you to take appropriate steps toward managing and embracing your differences.

Reaching Out for Support

If you’re navigating a new diagnosis alongside your menopause journey and would like some extra support, please feel free to reach out to me with any questions. I’d love to hear from you and help guide you through this transformative time.