Updatecast - New Name, The Dyslexia And ADHD Journey

Have you ever felt that small twinge of relief when you finally realise you’re not alone in your thinking? This episode of the newly renamed podcast shares that feeling in spades. Stephen Martin takes you on a heartfelt journey through his experiences with dyslexia and ADHD, shedding light on how closely these two neurodiversities are linked.

He talks about discovering his dyslexia early on, then later learning about his ADHD in his thirties. That might sound like a big gap, but it’s more common than you think. Let’s dive into the highlights, along with a few tips he’s picked up along the way.

Dyslexia and ADHD: A Close Connection

For some, dyslexia is the big news. For others, ADHD is. Stephen says both can coexist in one person, and this is exactly why his podcast name now includes ADHD.

He realised there wasn’t enough conversation about how these two conditions intersect. The overlap can be tricky to spot, especially before you’ve got the right information. It’s often not just about reading or focusing, but about day-to-day life challenges like routine disruptions and scheduling.

“It felt like I’d finally found the missing puzzle piece that explained so much about how I worked.”

That realisation can be incredibly liberating and a bit life-changing. This is why Stephen wants to share his thoughts on neurodiversity more openly.

A Diagnosis in Different Stages of Life

Stephen was labelled “dyslexic” pretty early. He grew up thinking that was the main hurdle. Then his ADHD diagnosis came like a bolt from the blue in his thirties.

He’s not alone. Many adults with dyslexia discover ADHD later, which can bring up old myths. People might think it’s “just a kid’s thing” or “not real.” But once you begin to understand how ADHD truly shows up, a lot of those myths crumble. Instead, you realise ADHD can manifest differently at different times of your life.

Challenging Myths and Embracing Neurodiversity

There’s a lot of talk about myths around ADHD, including that it’s just restlessness or that you can grow out of it. Stephen’s story proves that’s not always the case. He found he was still struggling with focus and memory well into adulthood.

Hearing others share their own stories can help you see that these “invisible challenges” are valid. Education is key. So is building a supportive community. It’s why Stephen values every question, every comment, and every conversation that happens around the podcast.

Sometimes, all you need is that moment of recognition. It’s powerful to realise you’re not lazy or forgetful. You’re simply wired a bit differently.

The Impact of Routine Disruptions

When you live with dyslexia or ADHD, having a consistent routine can be make-or-break for your mental health. Small changes can spiral into big stress. Stephen shares how missing an appointment or forgetting a task can feel like the end of the world.

If daily rhythms slip, the sense of overwhelm can skyrocket. That’s one reason why community support is so important. Sharing tips and life hacks can be a lifesaver, especially when you’re feeling stuck on a bad day.

Staying Connected and Asking for Help

Stephen is grateful for the continued support from his listeners. He believes in the power of sharing personal stories because it reminds everyone that we’re all in this together.

If you’re navigating life with dyslexia or ADHD, remember there’s a whole community you can tap into. Ask questions, vent your frustrations, and celebrate your wins. You might be surprised how many people get exactly where you’re coming from.

• Visit truthaboutdyslexia.com for insights on dyslexia, ADHD, and neurodiversity.
• Join our community on Facebook: facebook.com/groups/adultdyslexia.

Key Takeaways

• The podcast name change highlights the close link between dyslexia and ADHD.
• A diagnosis can come at unexpected times.
• Myths deserve to be challenged and replaced with genuine understanding.
• Routine disruptions can hit mental health hard.
• Sharing experiences offers relief and encourages compassion.
• Community and support are crucial to thriving with neurodiversity.

Curious to hear the full story? You can catch the show from the player at the top of this page. Stephen’s journey might spark a new perspective on your own path, so don’t miss out.