Trigger Warnings: mention of self-harm and medical gaslighting.

Explicit Content: some swearing. 

In today’s episode, I’ll be exploring the impacts of stress when living with ADHD, and how overwhelm plays its part. I’ll be sharing this chat with Talk to Coco.

Of course, ADHD in and of itself is a stressful idea – from often having to mask to fit in to just navigating the day-to-day challenges around executive function. Even with the powerful knowledge that comes with a diagnosis, self-advocating within a system that isn’t wholly supportive of neurodivergence is another major cause of stress. It’s like an extra layer on top of what is already a life primed for overwhelm. Which may be a factor in why adverse outcomes like mental health issues and in-patient treatment are common in those with ADHD.

Coco is a writer, poet and activist who uses their platform to encourage open conversations around mental health, sexuality, chronic illness, neurodivergence and gender identity. Coco is an all-round force for good. When you listen to them speak, there’s always a message of uplifting power there, and to know them is to share in that optimism. But this generous spirit of self and community love has come from a lifetime of dealing with stress, as Coco’s lived experience has been shaped by the intersections they now advocate for. 

Coco shares how stress manifests for them – both the daily grind of life and the stresses of environmental sensory challenges – how this has played out in medical setting as someone with a chronic illness, and how tackling that stress has to be the first step in self care.

We talk about triggers, coping mechanisms (boundaries, babe!) and Coco’s stress-busting playlist. We look at how holidays can be ironically stressful, and how important it is to put yourself first in trying to find a way out.

Coco also reveals how being a voice for the non-binary, Black, chronically ill and queer communities has forced them to tackle stress publicly.

Coco can be found on Instagram @talktococo 

THE EXPERT

Dr Mohamed Abdelghani is a consultant psychiatrist who specialises in mood disorders and adult ADHD. www.Dyad-medical.com  

Please note, your first port of call if you think you might have ADHD should be your GP. In the meantime, you can find more information here: 

Understanding ADHD in Girls and Women, by Joanne Steer.

 The ADHD Foundation 

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