During this episode, Mona talks about some of the emotions and feelings both partners may experience when one or both discovers they are a neurodiverse couple. She shares the shame she felt when she was struggling with postpartum depression for 2 years and attempts to normalize the feeling of not wanting to disclose to others what you are experiencing for fear of how people will respond or judge you.  In addition, she discusses the way guilt and anger may be experienced by both partners. She also talks about how one or both partners may experience denial around neurodiversity.  Although this may create some challenges, understanding how you and your partner are each hard-wired, and what may or may not be able to change, can be so helpful.  Mona also talks about how important it is for both partners to understand their own wants, needs, values, non-negotiables and boundaries and be able to discuss these with each other.  Sometimes love isn't enough and no matter what decision you make about your relationship, it's important to understand that your relationship is not a "community or family project". You and your partner can think outside the box and create the type of relationship that works for both of you.  Some neurodiverse couples enjoy living apart and planning dates together, others may live in different parts of the same house and eat meals together, others may be in open relationships or polyamorous.  No matter what you are feeling, or what type of relationship you are in, it's important to remember that your priority should be doing what works for you and your partner and not what pleases others.

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If you are interested in learning more about the support groups that Mona offers for neurotypical/non-autistic partners or neurodiverse couples, please send her a DM on Instagram @neurodiverse_love, or an email at: neurodiverselove4u@gmailcom

Thanks for being a part of the Neurodiverse Love Community!