Neurodivergent Nook Ep22: Addiction, ADHD and Autism
From Neurodivergent Nook · 00:30:19
Show by Helen Neale and Diane Frainer
Helen and Diane talk about ADHD, neurodivergence and addiction, with warmth and without judgment. Diane begins with a chance dinner-table meeting with a couple who have been in recovery for over a decade. From there, the pair explore childhood trauma, dopamine-seeking and the healthy replacements people find. They also talk about why services need to understand neurodivergent brains. Both share personal experiences of loving someone with an addiction. They finish with hope and self-compassion.Note:this episode includes personal stories about alcohol, gambling and addiction in families. These are Diane's and Helen's own experiences and won't apply to everyone. It is a personal conversation, not medical advice. Please speak to a doctor or pharmacist before using any substance to manage symptoms.Connect with:Diane: Olive Branch ConsultingHelen: Neurodivergent NookSarah: Hyperfusion (Facebook)Come Neurodivergent Nook us on social media too:FacebookInstagramTikTokMain PointsDiane met a couple in long-term recovery who spoke openly about their trauma and ADHD.Having ADHD doesn't mean addiction is inevitable. Stories of hope matter.Helen says problems with alcohol affect around 15–20% of the general population, and she believes it's double that in the ADHD population.Healthy replacements can meet the same need for dopamine, such as adrenaline-fuelled hobbies, swimming, or the joy of reading again.Services work best when they fit your own profile, including ADHD, autism or PDA, and how motivation works for you.Compassion over judgment: there are "more acceptable" and "less acceptable" addictions.Loving someone with an addiction can feel powerless. It's not about you, and the addiction is the illness.Healing from trauma and self-compassion matter, and support works best when tailored to the individual.Timestamps00:00 Welcome and introductions00:39 Today's topic: ADHD and addiction01:35 Meeting a couple in long-term recovery05:07 Childhood trauma and choosing to seek help07:41 Risks, statistics and why hope matters11:17 Getting services that fit your profile12:07 Helen's brother and the joy of small things13:31 Executive function and motivation to change15:33 Shopping, gambling and healthy replacements17:46 Seeking stimulation and sensory needs19:22 Compassion, not judgment21:58 Self-medication and "acceptable" addictions23:07 Loving someone with an addiction26:43 The addiction is the illness28:29 Self-compassion and tailored support29:38 Closing thoughtsSupportIf anything in this episode touches you or someone you love:UK:FRANK 0300 123 6600 (24/7, talktofrank.com). Alcoholics Anonymous 0800 917 7650. Al-Anon, for families, 0800 008 6811. Samaritans 116 123 (24/7).US:SAMHSA National Helpline 1-800-662-4357 (24/7). 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988.Worldwide:findahelpline.com lists helplines by country, and aa.org and na.org can point you to local meetings. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.
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