#114 Alchemised AF

In this episode, I share my personal journey as a late-diagnosed autistic ADHD counselor, psychotherapist, and alcohol coach. I open up about my struggles with busy brain, masking, and the coping mechanisms I used - including alcohol - to manage overwhelming thoughts and emotions. I discuss how societal expectations, trauma, and neurodivergence shaped my identity, and how self-compassion became the key to transforming my relationship with myself and with alcohol. Episode Takeaways: I learned that “busy brain” is not a personality flaw, but a symptom of deeper issues like trauma, neurodivergence, and societal pressure. Alcohol and other coping mechanisms are often solutions to discomfort, not the root problem themselves. Self-compassion, not willpower or harsh self-judgment, is the most effective path to healing and change. Masking and trying to fit in led me to lose touch with my authentic self; unmasking is a gradual, ongoing process. Our inner critic and need to control are often protective strategies developed in response to feeling unsafe or unacceptable. Burnout, stress, and self-sabotage are common among neurodivergent and sensitive people, especially when we ignore our needs. Sharing our stories and struggles helps break the cycle of shame and isolation. True transformation - alchemy - comes from understanding and repurposing our coping strategies, not just suppressing them. Episode links & Resources Join my 5-day Virtual Retreat from 15th - 19th September at hoperisingcoaching.com/5day-vr