No Such Thing as Normal

Anxiety, depression, chronic stress and low self-esteem are common co-occurring conditions for many neurodivergent young people. But are these struggles caused by neurodivergence itself, or by trying to fit into environments that don’t work for them? Child and adolescent psychiatrist Darryl-Lee Prince says not only is she seeing more school refusal and shutdown, but also more complex presentations. Among them, neurodivergent burnout.  Professor Dave Coghill unpacks what the evidence says about SSRIs, therapy, non-stimulant ADHD medication and non-drug treatments. This episode is about what helps. And why these young people are not broken, but in need of the right support, understanding and environments that recognise their strengths.  In this episode Neurodivergent burnout and masking Anxiety, dysregulation and school refusal When SSRIs can help Why therapy needs to be tailored for those who are autistic, ADHD or AuDHD Non-stimulant ADHD medication The truth about the effects of sugar, food colouring, fish oils and brain training on ADHD symptoms Is the information on TikTok trustworthy? No Such Thing as Normal is made with support from NZ ON AirSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you - or your child - is neurodivergent, it can often feel like the world doesn’t always take you seriously. The challenges might be huge, but they’re largely invisible, and often unpredictable.  So life can become a cycle of apologies and explanations. But advances in science are beginning to change this. In this episode we look at some of the important research happening here in Aotearoa. From brain imaging studies into ADHD, to genetic research revealing the biological pathways of autism. As these brain differences become measurable, the impact on individual lives is profound.   In this episode: What brain scans are revealing about ADHD and the role of movement Why those with ADHD struggle to hold two ideas in their mind at one time The emerging science behind the genetic basis of autism Why identifying specific genetic variants can be life-changing for families The ethical considerations of autism research, and why community involvement matters The importance of having a biological explanation for differences   Guests:   Dr Jessie Jacobsen and Dr Ruth Monk: Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland Dr Gil Newburn and Paul Condron:  Mātai Medical Research Institute   To support the work of the Centre for Brain Research click here    No Such Thing as Normal is made with the support of NZ On AirSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For many women, perimenopause brings more than just hot flushes. The impact on their cognition and mood is so extreme it feels like the chair has been pulled out from under them.  Strategies that once held everything together stop working. Anxiety spikes, brain fog sets in, and confidence takes a hit. In this episode, Dr Rachael Sumner discusses why hormonal changes can hit ADHD brains harder  - not just in perimenopause, but throughout their lives.  And we look at why so many women are only discovering their ADHD in mid-life.  Research is still catching up, but this episode helps shed some light on a hidden struggle affecting thousands of women, and offers validation, understanding, and a way forward. In this episode: Why ADHD symptoms often worsen during perimenopause The role of estrogen in supporting dopamine and serotonin The link between ADHD and PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder)Why neurodivergent women may be more sensitive to hormonal shifts across the lifespan. Why so many women are diagnosed with ADHD in their 40s and 50s The collapse of coping strategies and ‘unmasking’  Separating ADHD symptoms from hormonal changes The mental health impact: including anxiety, burnout and emotional dysregulation Why research into women’s health is still lagging behind The power of connection, validation and being understood Guests Dr Rachael Sumner, Senior Research Fellow, University of Auckland Dr Jacqui Johnson, ADHD Coach Partnering with ADHD Fiona Winfield, ADHD Coach Fiona Winfield And a special thanks to the women from the workshop - When ADHD meets Menopause.  For more information on upcoming workshops go to A Hot Mess  No Such Thing as Normal is made with the support of NZ On AirSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Neurodivergent young people are more likely to question their gender identity, and it can be a confusing and confronting time. Not just for the individual, but also for their loved ones. The support and validation of families is vital, but many feel unprepared; struggling to even navigate things like the role of pronouns.  This episode gives some insight into the unique way a number of autistic and ADHD young people experience identity - including gender identity. Through deeply personal stories and expert insight, we look at how families can best support young people as they navigate this complex space, and how they can reframe it as a natural period of exploration. At the heart of this conversation is mental health. The statistics for those at this intersection are confronting, but responsibility for better outcomes extends beyond immediate families; it rests with society as a whole. Greater awareness of lived experience can help reduce stigma - and with it, much of the suffering. As can recognising the immense courage it takes to live authentically, especially when that identity sits outside societal norms. In this episode: Adolescence: a time of identity formation for all young people. The mental health risks and what can significantly reduce them The role of interoception in identity The reality for parents: Uncertainty, and the fear of ‘getting it wrong’. The impact of stigma, and what it feels like to navigate the world as non-binary or trans and neurodivergent Practical advice for parents: how to support without rushing or shutting things down Why authenticity isn’t a choice No Such Thing as Normal is made with support from NZ On AirSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why do so many neurodivergent people struggle in the workplace; even when they are highly capable? In this episode, Sonia speaks to workplace strategist Rich Rowley about why modern workplaces value one narrow style of thinking, and how that can leave ADHD, autistic and dyslexic employees exhausted, ashamed and underperforming. Rich argues neurodivergent people are not simply workers who need accommodations and support; they’re an untapped valuable resource for organisations. Neurodivergent minds often excel at complex problem-solving, and workplace culture can either unlock or suppress that potential. Rich says that when organisations get this right, every metric improves - including the bottom line. Because true neuroinclusion benefits everyone. Guest: Rich Rowley  For more on Brainbadge go to ​​https://neurofusion.co.nz/ In this episode: Why ADHD, autistic and dyslexic employees often struggle in traditional workplaces The hidden toll of masking, burnout and “fitting in” at work Why neurodivergent people may excel at solving complex problems How businesses may be overlooking their most valuable thinkers The Values–Decisions Gap Why psychological safety is the foundation of true neuroinclusion How better workplace design can benefit all employees No Such Thing as Normal is made with support from NZ On AirSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Isabella* is just 22, but she’d been living with severe contamination OCD for eight years. It had taken over her life - touching people, objects, even parts of her own home, felt dangerous. Every interaction came with a cost: hours of cleaning, sanitising and rituals. In this episode we follow Isabella’s story. From a life ruled by OCD to her experience with a revolutionary therapy: the Bergen 4 day Treatment (B4DT).   Over 100 thousand New Zealanders are estimated to suffer from OCD and access to treatment is difficult.  Thanks to the charity Open Closed Doors the B4DT had it’s first New Zealand trial in January of this year.  And the results were phenomenal.   Guests: Isabella* Dr Bjarne Hansen Dr Marthinus Bekker Emma Chapman Mihi Gillies   To find out more, or to support the charity go to Open Closed Doors.    Resources: Open Closed Doors. Fixate - FB group In this episode: Isabella’s story: what OCD feels like from the inside The hidden cost of OCD: intrusive thoughts, compulsions, and the exhausting mental load Why OCD is so often misunderstood, and why logic alone doesn’t work The impact on families, relationships, and daily life The gold-standard treatment: Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and its limitations The first New Zealand trial of the Bergen 4-day Treatment (B4DT) - an intensive four-day therapy Insights from co-founder Bjarne Hansen on anxiety, intention, and “cracking the code” Willingness:  the key predictor of recovery A strengths-based reframe of OCD: these traits are not weaknesses. “Don’t feed the cat”. Learning to respond differently to intrusive thoughts What recovery looks like in real life. Honest reflections on early recovery, the highs, the doubts, and what comes next Practical insights for parents and families: supporting without reinforcing OCD No Such Thing as Normal is made with support from NZ On Air  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ADHD is being talked about more than ever.  But for many, life still feels harder than it should. Even with a diagnosis there can be a lingering sense of “Why is life still so difficult?” In this episode, Sonia speaks with ADHD coach Alex Campbell, to find out what we’re missing. Alex says ADHD brains are motivated by interest, not importance. But the world expects the opposite, and that’s the where issues arise. People often develop hidden systems to try to meet life’s demands - hypervigilance, hyper-independence and a harsh inner-critic.  But these come at a cost.  Their are high rates of burnout and exhaustion for those with ADHD. This conversation explores a different way forward: understanding how your brain works, and learning how to work with it, rather than constantly pushing against it. In this episode: How interest acts as the fuel for focus and executive function Why simple tasks can feel disproportionately hard to start How the brain creates stimulation when things feel boring Negative interest: why anxiety and urgency often become the default fuel The hidden coping systems (hypervigilance, masking, hyper-independence) The role of the inner critic The long-term cost: exhaustion, stress and burnout Internal vs external hyperactivity. ADHD and emotional intensity Spiky strengths: brilliant in some areas, challenged in others Practical ways to begin working with your ADHD brain, rather than against it The value of connection Identifying strengths, and using them to get activated Guest: Alex Campbell ADHD CoachAlex’s book ADHD… Now What? Is available here. Resources: VIA Character StrengthsADHD NZ No Such Thing as Normal is made with the support of NZ On AirSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Sonia Gray speaks with 12-year-old Benjamin, whose extraordinary creativity sits alongside the challenges of dyslexia. His mother, Gretchen, reflects on the hidden effort behind his learning, and what changed when his strengths were recognised and understood. Dyslexia advocate Dean Bragonier returns, making the case that strengths-based education is not just better for individuals, but for society. He argues that when we fail to recognise neurodivergent strengths, we fail to realise that potential, along with the innovation and creativity that come with it. The Hyphen Project in Auckland offers a different model of learning for gifted and neurodivergent teenagers who have struggled in mainstream education. For 17-year-old Travis, who has ADHD, that shift has been life-changing. A talented digital artist, Travis couldn’t find his place in the traditional school system. He arrived at Hyphen in a mental health crisis — and found an environment that worked with his brain, not against it. In this episode: Strengths-based education in practice at The Hyphen Project ADHD, dyslexia and “spiky” learning profiles Why many neurodivergent students disengage from school The link between anxiety, mental health and learning The role of belonging in re-engaging young people How motivation changes when learning is built around strengths Real-world pathways for creative and neurodivergent thinkers The “opportunity cost” of overlooked potential This is a continuation of the previous episode, Strengths-based education: Unlocking the gifts, which explores how identifying strengths early can transform a child’s experience of learning.   Guests:  Dean Bragonier Noticeability Benjamin Gretchen Holly Gooch The Hyphen Project Travis   Resources: Dyslexia Foundation NZ    No Such Thing as Normal is made with the support of NZ On AirSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For many dyslexic children, school is where self-doubt begins. Literacy and numeracy sit at the centre of how ability is measured, so it doesn’t take long for kids who struggle in these areas to absorb the message that something is wrong with them. And this extends beyond dyslexia. Many neurodivergent learners - including those with ADHD and autism - have strengths that sit outside the narrow skills schools traditionally measure.  Ensuring all kids learn to read and write is important, and many will need targeted support. But are we missing something vital in this process?  Should the same emphasis be placed on the unique gifts of those with learning difficulties? Dean Bragonier is an international dyslexia advocate and founder of non-profit organisation NoticeAbility.  He held a series of workshops in New Zealand, designed to help dyslexic students recognise their cognitive strengths. In this episode, Sonia speaks to Dean, and from some of the children who took part in the workshops here. This conversation focuses on dyslexia, but the idea reaches far beyond it.  When young people discover their strengths, the story they tell about themselves can begin to change. In this episode you’ll hear: Why many dyslexic students internalise the belief that they’re “not smart”. How the changing nature of the workplace may favour neurodivergent strengths. Why a negative self-perception created in school can have lifelong effects. Advice for parents of dyslexic learners.  Why learning ‘the basics’ is hard for non-linear learners. This is Part 1 of a two-part focus on Strengths-based education. Guests: Dean Bragonier NoticeAbility Ella Deanna Emily   Resources: Dyslexia Foundation NZ TED X: The True Gifts of a Dyslexic Mind | Dean Bragonier See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Parenting a child with ADHD, autism, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Pervasive Demand Avoidance (PDA) or sensory challenges can feel unpredictable. One day everything is fine. The next day it isn’t. Food they ate yesterday is suddenly rejected. A fun outing becomes overwhelming. And sometimes it all ends in a meltdown. Perhaps your child doesn’t have a diagnosis, but it’s clear they’re not coping. And neither are you. In this episode, Sonia Gray speaks with sensory integration practitioner Elen Nathan about what’s going on in these moments.  And why the answers parents often look for may not be the ones that help most. This conversation explores a powerful shift in how challenging behaviour is understood. Regardless of a child’s specific diagnosis or neurotype, their nervous system may be trying to tell us something important. So what actually helps when nothing seems to be working?  Elen says: “It all boils down to a sense of safety.” In this episode we explore: What to do when your child isn’t coping Why behaviour can change from one day to the next What you can do while waiting for a diagnosis Why meltdowns are often misunderstood The shift in how experts think about behaviour and sensory processing How to deal with the judgement of others If you’re parenting a child who isn’t coping right now, this conversation may offer some insight. Guest:  Elen Nathan The Playful Place No Such Thing as Normal is made with support from NZ On AirSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ADHD stimulant medication use is rising in New Zealand, but questions about safety and side effects remain - as does the stigma surrounding these meds. In the first episode of Season three, Sonia Gray explores what ADHD medication actually does - and what it doesn’t. You’ll hear 11-year-old Tilly take her morning pill and describe, in real time, how it changes the way she feels. Sonia also speaks with Professor Dave Coghill about how stimulant medication works. Dave addresses some common concerns around safety and effectiveness, and explains what a comprehensive medication trial should involve. Medication isn’t the only treatment for ADHD. But for many, it can be life-changing. Note: This episode is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about treatment decisions. Guests: Professor Dave CoghillTilly and BexResources:  ADHD NZNo Such Thing as Normal is made with support from NZ On AirSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all know what Tourette’s is - or we think we do.  But this is a condition that is largely misunderstood and routinely misrepresented. Only around 10% of those with Tourette’s syndrome have the ‘swearing tic’ - coprolalia.  But the other vocal and motor tics can be just as debilitating. In this episode, Sonia speaks to Tiktok sensation, Leighton Clarke - aka Uncle Tics. He now embraces his Tourette’s and encourages others to do the same. We also hear from Fyfe, a bubbly and creative 10-year-old. Her mother Amanda describes Fyfe’s journey - from the occasional tic, to a diagnosis of Tourette’s syndrome. And clinical psychologist, Hilary Mack, talks about the connection between Tourette’s Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and ADHD. Guests:Leighton Clarke (Uncle Tics) TiktokFyfe and AmandaHilary Mack Hilary Mack Psychology Resources: Tourette’s Association of NZ Instagram - No Such Thing as Normal PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A diagnosis of ADHD, autism or dyslexia is merely an indication that your brain works in a different - and exciting - way. So why are the rates of co-occurring anxiety and depression so high for neurodivergent people?   In this episode, Sonia talks to 16-year-old Emily Martin, who has ADHD, dyslexia and dyscalculia.  Emily suffered from intense anxiety and low self-esteem throughout her primary school years. Therapist Jane Kjersten explains the specific type of trauma that can come from feeling ‘lesser than’, and suggests ways to heal from the emotional pain. Guests: Emily and Jo MartinJane Kjersten Jane Kjersten Therapist  Instagram - No Such Thing as Normal Podcast  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dyspraxia (or Developmental Coordination Disorder) is more than just a difficulty tying shoelaces or riding a bike.  It impacts almost every aspect of life, and the effort to carry out basic tasks can be exhausting. Sonia talks to Bayley Garnham, a 24 year old Personal Trainer, who has dyspraxia and dysgraphia. Dyspraxic kids often give up on sports early, but Bayley wants to change that.  He believes these kids need a different approach to learning sports. And Sensory Integration Practitioner, Elen Nathan, explains what dyspraxia/DCD is - and what’s going on inside the minds of those with this ‘hidden’ condition. Guests:Bayley Garnham bayley garnham – personal trainerElen Nathan The Playful Place Instagram - No Such Thing as Normal Podcast Resources:  Dyspraxia NZSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The parents of kids with neurodifferences face multiple challenges. But while navigating a broken system is exhausting, the constant scrutiny of your parenting can be worse. In this episode, Sonia talks to TVNZ’s 1News at 6 presenter, Melissa Stokes and Newstalk ZB Host, Francesca Rudkin about advocating for their children. And researcher Willow Sainsbury, explains why the go-to suggestion of ‘parenting courses’ can be so distressing for parents. Guests:Melissa StokesFrancesca RudkinWillow Sainsbury Research Study on Parent's ExperiencesInstagram - No Such Thing as Normal Podcast Resources:Online Every Day with ADHD Parenting Evening CourseProgrammes Archive - Autism NZSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Parenting a neurodivergent child is wonderful, but it’s challenging.  Often, it can feel like the only people who understand are other parents on the same road. In this episode, Sonia talks to Francesca Rudkin, who had to navigate life with a daughter in crisis, before ADHD was identified. We meet members of the ‘Dad’s Autism Support Group’ in Auckland who all have kids with high-needs on the autism spectrum. They say connecting with each other regularly, and sharing the highs - and the lows - has been invaluable. And educational psychologist, Willow Sainsbury, talks about the experience for parents getting a diagnosis and support.  The main theme of her research study was ‘the battle’. Guests:Francesca RudkinPeter, Mac, Noah and Gareth from the Dad’s Autism Support GroupWillow Sainsbury Research Study on Parent's Experiences Instagram - No Such Thing as Normal PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The rates of ADHD and dyslexia in prisons is staggering.  But these same neurotypes are also more likely to be successful CEO’s and entrepreneurs.  So where is the fork in the road? What leads someone down the wrong path? Sonia Gray talks to Ricky Wakelin, a kind and gentle father-of-two. In the early 2000’s Ricky’s life had spiralled out of control. He was addicted to hard drugs and was eventually incarcerated for armed robbery.   Three years ago, an assessment confirmed that Ricky has ADHD.  The diagnosis has helped him understand the reasons behind his lifelong struggle with things like emotional regulation and hypersensitivity. Sonia also talks to forensic psychologist Anton Ashcroft, who explains why those with ADHD are often drawn to illicit substances.  He talks about the value of connection, and why this - rather than tougher consequences - is so important for the rehabilitation of offenders. Guests:  Ricky Wakelin Anton Ashcroft - Forensic Psychologist Resources: ADHD NZInstagram - No Such Thing as Normal PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s very difficult to get by in society when you don’t use words to communicate.  Non-speaking autistic people tend to be invisible, unless they are ‘causing a problem’.  Olympic rower Eric Murray is father to 12 year-old Zac, who is autistic and ADHD.  He talks to Sonia Gray about the challenges, the joys and the desperate need for support and understanding. Guests:  Eric MurrayAnna Middleton - Senior Behaviour Specialist - Explore ServicesResources: Autism NZ https://autismnz.org.nzInstagram - No Such Thing as Normal PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many autistic people have spent their lives masking, but it’s an exhausting and inauthentic way to live. Now, as understanding around neurodivergence grows, many autistics are choosing to ‘unmask’ and embrace their differences. Autistic comedian Abby Howells has found success as her authentic, ‘unmasked’ self on stage. The things she used to hate about herself are now working for her.  And she wants to encourage other autistic people to lean into who they truly are. Guests:  Abby Howells InstagramDr Sarah Watson Totally Psyched Instagram - No Such Thing as Normal PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode Sonia Gray finds out how vital people with dyslexia are to the survival of the human race  - they're the explorers, creative thinkers and problem solvers.She talks to poet and playwright, Dominic Hoey, who has written award-winning books, despite his reading challenges. And dyslexic researcher and champion, Dr Ruth Gibbons, talks about the importance of movement for dyslexics.  GUESTS:   Dr Ruth Gibbons - Massey University Social Anthropology lecturer Dominic Hoey - Writer Oliver and Amy Williams RESOURCES:The Dyslexia Foundation of NZSPELDLearn To Write GoodSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dyslexia has long been thought of as that thing that makes it hard to read - and people are often made to feel dumb because of it.But we're learning more and more that reading and writing isn't really an issue. In fact some dyslexics read brilliantly - before they even start school - it's just once they're in the classroom they're lost and left behind in a curriculum that doesn't work for them. In this episode Sonia Gray finds out about how schools are failing our dyslexic kids, and how the trauma of education is deep-rooted right into adulthood. She speaks to Michael McWilliams who found school a nightmare, dropped out at 15, then turned his life around. And dyslexic researcher and champion, Dr Ruth Gibbons, who talks about the amazing strengths of the dyslexic mind. GUESTS:   Dr Ruth Gibbons - Massey University Social Anthropology lecturer Michael McWilliams - 23-year-old entrepreuner Jane Kjersten - Michael's mother See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WARNING: This episode does contain explicit language  Autism and ADHD were always thought of as mutually exclusive conditions, but in recent years it’s become possible to get a diagnosis of both.   Now, more and more people are recognising they have traits of both autism and ADHD, commonly known as ‘AuDHD’. But because of the opposing nature of these neurotypes, ‘AuDHD’ can feel like an internal ‘tug-of war’. In this episode Sonia Gray speaks to Rich Rowley and Annabelle March, who describe their lived-experience as AuDHDers.   And Clinical Psychologist Sarah Watson, talks about the challenges, and strengths that come with these unique minds. GUESTS:   Dr Sarah Watson, Clinical Psychologist, Totally Psyched Rich Rowley Annabelle March  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WARNING: This episode does contain explicit language  There’s been a sharp rise in the number of adults seeking ADHD assessments, and for many a diagnosis can be the answer to a lifetime of struggle. Musician Anika Moa was diagnosed with ADHD a few years ago. She tells Sonia Gray about the mental health battles she’s endured, and the positive changes a diagnosis has made to her life.  And ADHD coach, Alex Campbell says that ADHD is about much more than focus and attention.  He explains how Executive Functions work and says the key factor is that ADHD brains are driven by interest, not importance. Guests: Anika Moa Alex Campbell, ADHD Coach Resources: VIA Character Strengths The six cluster of Executive Functions ADHD NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The whirr of an air conditioner; the feeling of socks on your feet;  the sound of other people breathing:  Sensory challenges are arbitrary, but they can cause acute distress. In this episode, host Sonia Gray talks to three guests who experience the world in BOLD And Sensory Integration Specialist, Elen Nathan, unpacks what’s happening in the eight sensory systems, and how we can best support those who have sensory sensitivities.  She also explains why chicken nuggets are the one food most kids can eat.  GUESTS:   Elen Nathan, Occupational Therapist, The Playful Place Amber-Rose Nikolas Bec  Annabelle  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OCD is largely thought of as an aversion to germs and excessive hand washing, but it’s far more complicated than that. Obsessive thoughts can be around almost anything, and the compulsive behaviour that accompanies it can be debilitating for the individual and their whānau.  Up to 80 000 New Zealanders live with OCD but less than 10% have sought treatment.  In this final episode of the series, Sonia talks to 17-year-old Poppy, who gives a brave insight into her OCD. And we hear from some of the many people and groups who are driving change in the neurodiversity space.  Guests:  Poppy Armiger  Helena Armiger  Jock Matthews Rojolie Clinic  Professor David Coghill AADPA  Darrin Bull   Jo Charman Autism NZ  Tanya Blakey Autism NZ  Susan Haldane Mind Over Manner  Rich Rowley Brain Badge    Facebook: Kids Wired Differently  Instagram: nosuchthingasnormalpodcast    Resources OCD:   OCD NZ  Fixate Facebook Group    Other Resources:  ADHD NZ  Autism NZ  Dyslexia NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dyslexia is still thought of a problem with reading and writing but that’s just a small part of the picture; those who are dyslexic experience the world in a completely different way.   This episode looks at some of the lesser-known dyslexic characteristics, the best ways to support dyslexic learners and we look at how ‘shame’ is such a huge issue for those who learn differently.  Documentary: Unlocking Potential  Guests:   Kimberley Crossman  Dr Ruth Gibbons www.ruth-gibbons.com  Vanessa Victor Remarkable Minds  Helen Armiger  Ruby Armiger  Elliot Jones Unlocking Potential See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Neurodivergent people respond to the environment in unique ways. Occasionally, if their nervous systems are overwhelmed, the body responds by going into a meltdown. Sensory overload, communication challenges and sensitivity to demands can all contribute to this temporary loss of control of behaviour. We’re often quick to judge the behaviour we’re seeing, but this is just the tip of the iceberg.  In this episode Sonia talks to a dad who has radically changed his parenting style to support his ADHD/Autistic children.  And we hear from neurodivergent people about what causes a meltdown and what the experience feels like for them.  Guests:   Rob Newlove Parenting Unique Children  Sophie Newlove  Matt Frost  Nick Marsh  Lucy Charles Paediatric OT  Dani  Sharyn Gousmett  Willow Corner See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although we think of ADHD as being a mostly male condition, it is just as prevalent in females. However, the diagnosis rates tell a different story - females are less than half as likely to be identified as having this neurological condition. Women tend to be better at suppressing and internalising their emotions.   But things like Rejection Sensitivity Disorder, intolerance to boredom, poor executive function and time blindness are very real, and they can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.   In this episode, we look at ways we can work with the ADHD brain - rather than against it - by identifying the many strengths of ADHD. And Sonia chats to broadcaster Hayley Holt about her experience as a late-diagnosed ADHDer.   Guests: Dr. Sarah Watson Totally Psyched   Hayley Holt David Coghill AADPA Rich Rowley Brain Badge Alex Campbell   Resources: ADHD NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we continue looking at whether our education system is meeting the needs of neurodivergent children. We ask: What are the supports and accommodations available? Do you need an official diagnosis of dyslexia to qualify for a reader/writer? And why are stand downs and exclusions so common for kids who are autistic or ADHD?  Facebook: Kids Wired Differently  Guests:   Rachel King and Theo  Pippa Biggs Include Me - Specialist Education Services  Tom Little Pukare Cards  Anna Coleman  Helen McDonald See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Aotearoa, we pride ourselves on our inclusive education system.  But is that really the experience for kids who are Autistic, ADHD, Dyslexic or Gifted? Over two episodes we ask: Is our education system really meeting the needs of neurodivergent children, their families and the teachers that support them?   Sonia talks to students, parents and specialist teachers about their experiences in the education system, and what they think works best for children who learn differently.  Facebook:  Kids Wired Differently  Guests:  Rich Rowley  brainbadge.org  Maximiliano Pierret Massey University  Helen McDonald Include Me - Specialist Education Services  Sarah Hinchey [email protected]  Kimi Cotter  Sarah Hinchey is a PhD candidate at Canterbury University. She is doing a research study on reading comprehension and multisensory integration in autistic children. Sarah is currently recruiting participants aged 8-12 years, autistic and neurotypical, in the Canterbury region and Auckland.  The method involves a wireless EEG system that measures the electrical activity in the brain. EEG is a harmless and objective method which can provide crucial information on how these amazing brains process reading material. This will enable the development of a strengths-based reading support strategy specific for autistic learners.  If you are interested in taking part you can email Sarah at [email protected].  More information can be found at this FB page: UCSpeechLab See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is growing awareness and acceptance of neurodivergent profiles like ADHD, autism and dyslexia. But even with a diagnosis, accommodations and support, the world can be an unfriendly place for people whose brains are wired differently.  Sonia chats to her guests about the importance of belonging, what ‘bad behaviour’ is really telling us and asks, “does ‘normal’ really exist?”  Guests:  Jock Matthews Rojolie Clinic  Sue Haldane Mind Over Manner  Raewyn Heays ADHD NZ  Jane Yee  Joey  Kimi and Ihaka  Resources:  Dyslexia Foundation of NZ  NZ Centre for Gifted Education  Autism NZ  ADHD NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Getting a diagnosis is complicated, and not just because of the long waiting lists.   There is so much to consider: Do you want your child – or yourself - to have a label? How will friends and family members react? Is the diagnosis the right one?  The process is made more difficult because it’s not an exact science - there is no blood test or scan for ADHD, autism, dyslexia, or any of the other diagnoses. In this episode, Sonia talks to experts who carry out assessments for the various conditions. And we hear from people who have gone through the diagnostic process - and come out the other side.   Guests:  Ngaire  Kartini Clarke  Rachel Barrow  Mike Hall  Lucy Charles paediatricOT  Dr Jamie Speeden Growing Pains  Anton Ashcroft divergenthinking.co.nz  Dr Jemila Chadwick Kidz Therapy  Resources:  Dyslexia Foundation of NZ  NZ Centre for Gifted Education  Autism NZ  ADHD NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trying to navigate the health and education systems is one of the biggest challenges for parents of neurodivergent kids. Where do you start? And where do you go next? We know that early intervention, particularly for Autism and Dyslexia, gives the best chance of a positive outcome. But getting the right support isn’t easy - particularly as parents often don’t know what they are looking for.  Sonia chats to her guests about the importance of early intervention, the need for a clear roadmap and how we can reduce the stigma that surrounds neurodiversity.  Facebook: Kids Wired Differently  Guests:  Ngaire and Waiaio  Victoria Girling-Butcher   Lucy Charles paediatricOT  Guy Pope-Mayell Dyslexia Foundation of NZ  Justine Munro Neurodiversity in Education    Resources:  Dyslexia Foundation of NZ  NZ Centre for Gifted Education  Autism NZ  ADHD NZ  4d.org.nz    Featured Song: Victoria Girling-Butcher The Giver and the Gift See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are 8 billion brains in the world...and they are 8 billion unique brains. We’re all different. So why are neurodivergent conditions (like Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia and Dyspraxia) referred to as disorders? Are they really disorders? Or just different variations of normal?   Sonia chats to her guests about the value of neurodiversity, the strengths of unique brains and the challenge of trying to fit into a society that just isn’t built for you.   Guests:  Dani  Rich Rowley brainbadge.org  Anton Ashcroft divergenthinking.co.nz  Alex Campbell adhdalex.com  Lucy Charles paediatricot.nz  Scott Robertson (courtesy of Unlocking Potential a documentary by Elliot Jones).  Facebook: Kids Wired Differently See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No Such Thing as Normal launches June 10th. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.