Getting Stuff Off Your Chest_ Saves Lives

Have you ever looked at the scales, sighed, and wondered if it will ever get easier? Trust me, you're not alone. In this episode, Stephen Martin shares his 32-year journey with weight loss and how he’s learned to cope through honesty and connection. If you’ve felt like giving up, there’s so much in this conversation that might shift your perspective.

We explore the challenges of growing up neurodivergent and how food can become both a comfort and a crutch. Stephen straight-up admits that he’s struggled with his weight for decades. Listening to his personal story reminds us that every journey—whether it’s to lose weight, manage dyslexia, or tackle another obstacle—can benefit from understanding and support.

My 32-Year Weight Battle

For over three decades, Stephen tried every possible way to lose weight. From short bursts of motivation to times when he felt hopeless, he never fully gave up. It’s not easy when you have a mind that works differently, especially if you're an adult with dyslexia or ADHD. Those of us who are neurodivergent often face an internal tug-of-war just to stay on track.

He talks about being in a place now where he’s aiming to hover at a healthier weight. The focus is no longer on crash diets or strict routines—it’s about steady progress. This shift in mentality came from realising that beating yourself up only makes the journey harder. Compassion towards yourself is far more valuable than guilt.

Stephen also highlights how common it is for neurodivergent people to seek comfort from food. Growing up different can mean extra stress, so reaching for a dopamine boost becomes second nature. But that same dopamine fix is a double-edged sword—it can help you cope in the moment, yet it creates a cycle that’s tough to break.

The Dopamine Connection

Food addiction is more than just overindulging. When life feels overwhelming, especially for someone with ADHD or dyslexia, food can become an easy reward. Stephen calls it his “dopamine trigger” because every bite felt like a mini boost of feel-good chemicals.

Many neurodivergent folks experience higher stress. They might deal with challenges in reading, writing, or focusing. Food offers fast relief. Step away from life's difficulties for a moment, and that immediate taste of something delicious can feel like magic.

“I used food as my dopamine trigger. It was always there and never asked questions.”

He realised this coping style wasn’t fixing anything long-term. It masked deeper issues like anxiety and self-doubt. By naming the problem—understanding that his brain was craving that dopamine—Stephen took a big step toward healthier habits.

Sharing Is Healing

Sometimes we keep our biggest struggles bottled up. Maybe it’s shame or feeling like nobody understands. Stephen encourages open sharing because it instantly cuts problems in half. Or as he says, “A problem shared is a problem halved.”

Yes, it can be uncomfortable to speak out about what's weighing us down. But when we hold it all inside, we risk feeling isolated. Talking to a friend, family member, or even a supportive online community can lift that heaviness. You realise you're not alone—others have similar fears, insecurities, and everyday triumphs.

Stephen leans on his circle of friends who understand what it’s like to think in unique ways. They listen, cheer him on, and remind him that small steps still count. As a result, he’s found more balance in his relationship with food and even with himself. That’s the real power of opening up.

On the Road to Connection

Support is the backbone of any health journey. When you find at least one person who gets it, you know you have someone to lean on. This bond doesn't just help you feel better—it forms a buffer against self-doubt.

Having a friend on the path keeps you grounded. You can share your wins, your slip-ups, and those moments of pure frustration. Together, you can swap practical tips, recipes, or even just a sympathetic ear. It’s easier to notice small victories when someone’s celebrating them with you.

Stephen is a huge advocate of finding your tribe, whether it’s a Facebook group for adults with dyslexia or a local meetup. Hang around people who’ve been there. Let them reflect your strengths back to you. You might realise you’re far more capable than you think.

Takeaways

• This journey has spanned 32 years, but every step matters.
• Food became Stephen’s dopamine fix—so it’s no surprise it was tough to quit.
• Life can be harder when you’re neurodivergent, but there’s always hope.
• Sharing your struggles makes them less overwhelming.
• A supportive companion helps you stay motivated.
• Keeping things bottled up can make them worse.
• Talking things through can ease mental burdens, one conversation at a time.

If you’re curious about the deeper conversation, the full podcast episode is just above. Give it a listen to hear Stephen’s voice, his humour, and his practical advice on living with dyslexia, ADHD, and a history of weight struggles. Sometimes just one story can click with your own experience and spark new ideas.

So don’t hold back. Grab a friend, tune in, and see what insights resonate with you. You never know—the next step in your journey could be just a few words away.