Ups & Downs

Ever have those days when your brain feels on fire with creativity, then the very next day you’d rather hide from the world? That’s the rollercoaster of adult dyslexia in full swing. In our latest episode, we dive into these unpredictable highs and lows, exploring why they happen and how to manage them.

We talk about losing purpose, dealing with sudden withdrawal, and practical ways to balance the emotional see-saw. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed in your dyslexic journey, this episode is packed with insights and simple shifts that might lighten the load.

The Emotional Swings

Many dyslexic adults experience a wave of “I can do anything” that can fall into “I want to hide” almost overnight. It’s not a personal failing. It’s just how our minds respond to stress, meaning, and that elusive sense of “why.”

Sometimes, we’re on a roll, bursting with clarity and fresh ideas. Then, out of nowhere, the brightness dims. It might happen because we lost our reason for doing a task or our minds got swamped by fight-or-flight thoughts.

“You’re not broken, you’re wired differently.”

How “Why” Shapes Everything

The dyslexic brain loves purpose. We’re always asking, “Why am I doing this?” When we have clarity, we feel unstoppable. But if we lose that thread, our energy can crash.

This purpose-driven mindset might mean we invest ourselves deeply. That’s great… until stress hits. Then our mind, body, or both can push us into withdrawal or negative self-talk. Recognising this pattern helps us step back and see it for what it is, not who we are.

Experiments in Calming

In the episode, I share a personal experiment using 5-HTP, a supplement sometimes linked to smoothing out the fight-or-flight response. I noticed it boosted my sense of calm and lowered those intense shifts.

Of course, there’s no one-size-fits-all. Whether you try a supplement, meditation, or just take a walk, find small “calming hacks” to reduce stress. Over time, these little efforts may help your emotions stay a bit more even.

Common Coping Mechanisms

When the down days hit, some of us hide behind screen time or comfort eating. Others shut off from loved ones. These are normal reactions that stem from our powerful emotional wiring.

Trying to ignore these patterns doesn’t help. It’s better to shine a light on them. If you’re feeling stuck, ask yourself: “Am I missing my why? Am I stressed or tired? Is there a tiny fix I can do right now?” Even the smallest shift can break the cycle.

Accepting The Ups and Downs

Acceptance is key. Dyslexic adults typically have bigger ups and bigger downs. It’s how our brains operate. Keeping that in mind lifts the burden of blame.

When you sense a slump, remind yourself it’s part of the journey. Reach out to a friend or community group. The more we share stories, the more we realise we’re not alone.

• Remember: it’s a trait, not a flaw.
• Aim small: little daily habits can calm the mind.
• Watch out for sensory overload and fatigue.
• Seek true purpose to keep momentum.

Key Takeaways

• Emotional highs and lows are common in dyslexia, not personal weakness.
• Extra-strong upswings and downswings often happen when purpose fades.
• Fight-or-flight stress triggers can leave you feeling disconnected.
• Small “calming hacks” like a supplement or mindfulness routine may help.
• Awareness and acceptance are powerful steps to feeling less alone.

If this resonates, tune into the full episode for a deeper look. You’ll hear more about the dyslexic brain’s need for meaning, plus a few practical tools to smooth out the ride. You’re invited to join our community at rightbrainresetters.com, where we share support and ideas for adults with dyslexia. You can also grab 20% off your first order at addednutrition.com if you fancy a wellness boost.

Ready for more insights? Listen to the entire episode and discover how to handle those highs and lows with more confidence. We’re all in this together!