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The Things That Have Helped Me Live My Best Neurodivergent Life

How I’ve taken charge of my physical, mental and emotional well-being following a later-in-life diagnosis.

6 min readJan 16, 2025

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Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash

It’s been quite the journey since I was diagnosed autistic back in 2020. Unsurprisingly, nothing about it has been linear — more like an upward spiral through a never-ending learning process. Newfound certainties are soon replaced with uncertainties as my understanding of my neurodivergence deepens.

The discoveries keep unfolding, perhaps the most significant being a diagnosis of ADHD in 2023. I’m also understanding more about how being AuDHD is intertwined with a history of chronic stress, trauma, compromised mental health and negative core beliefs. Addressing the legacy of these things has been central to my journey.

One thing I know for sure is that I am much happier and more settled than I was four years ago. I’ve made significant changes to establish a life aligned with my needs and values. And in a world that hasn’t yet figured out how to support late-diagnosed autistic adults, I can proudly claim credit for myself.

I want to share what has worked for me in the hope that it might open up possibilities for you. I do not have any medical training and have received advice from…

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Jae L
Jae L

Written by Jae L

Queer, neurodivergent and in the business of asking questions and stirring things up. Conspire with me. diverge999@gmail.com; https://justinefield.substack.com

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