Re-introducing Myself, Part II
the diagnoses (AuDD) -- embracing change and self-discovery
Me, with Veega and Vanchinzo (age 2, Nubians) — photo credit: Nicol Ragland
Hello again, dear readers,
In my last post, I began the journey of re-introducing myself — today, having recently been diagnosed with both Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Inattentive Type, I’m again re-introducing myself with these particular diagnoses
Why am I introducing myself to the world with this?
1 — educational purposes: I’m only just now identifying this in the second half of my life — for obvious reasons, as is the case with most health conditions, it’s much better to catch these things earlier in life — but it’s never too late
2 — self-discovery: writing about all of this proves to be a great way to explore these issues, as I uncover the layers and go deeper into the sources of these symptoms
3 — authenticity: as mentioned in a previous blog called ‘unmasking’, having spent the first half of my life masking these symptoms, I’m now on a crusade to practice radical honesty and present myself to the world in a purely authentic way
These revelations have been eye-opening, and I'm here to share what I’m learning, in hopes it might resonate with or help someone out there
First, a brief summary of these diagnoses:
Level one Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), also known as "mild autism" or "high-functioning autism," is a diagnostic category within the broader spectrum of autism — it is characterized by certain features and challenges, but individuals with level one ASD typically have fewer or milder symptoms compared to those with higher levels of ASD
Some pros and cons of Level One ASD:
| Pros | Cons
|-----------------——------------|----------------------------------------
| Strengths in certain areas | Social difficulties
| May have above-average
intellectual abilities | Difficulty with change and transitions
| Sensory sensitivities
| Good at following routines | Repetitive behaviors
| Ability to focus on specific interests | Difficulty in understanding nonverbal communication
| Potential for independence | Challenges in making and maintaining friendships
It's important to note that individuals with level one ASD, like everyone else, have unique strengths and challenges, and their experiences can vary widely — early diagnosis and intervention can help individuals with level one ASD develop coping strategies and lead fulfilling lives
Inattentive ADHD, also known as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Inattentive Presentation, is one of the three subtypes of ADHD — it primarily involves difficulties with attention and focus, without the hyperactivity and impulsivity commonly associated with other subtypes of ADHD
Some of the pros and cons of inattentive ADHD:
| Pros | Cons
|------------------------------------------|------------------------
| Creativity and divergent thinking | Difficulty sustaining attention on tasks
| Strong problem-solving skills | Frequent forgetfulness and disorganization
| Ability to think outside the box |Challenges with time management and planning
| May excel in tasks of interest | Difficulty following through on instructions
| High levels of curiosity and exploration | Struggles with completing assignments or work
It's important to understand that inattentive ADHD doesn't mean the individual lacks intelligence or potential — many people with this subtype have unique strengths and talents, but they may struggle in academic, work, or organizational settings due to their difficulties with sustained attention and focus — diagnosis and appropriate interventions, which may include therapy and medication, can help individuals manage their symptoms and unlock their full potential
ASD Level 1, often regarded as 'high-functioning autism', presents challenges in social interactions and communication, alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors — yet, individuals like me often lead independent lives but struggle with organization and planning
ADHD Inattentive Type is marked by difficulties in maintaining attention and being easily distracted — it's less about hyperactivity and more about the internal struggle to focus and follow through with tasks — I do not experience the hyperactivity — everyone who knows me knows me to be pretty chill
For half my life, these nuances in my behavior were just quirks, but now they have names — and with these names, hopefully, I can develop a deeper understanding of how my brain is working — and thus change it
I've chosen to address these challenges through a combined approach — minus the medication, here are a few ways:
1. Behavioral Therapies: I’ll be working on enhancing my social skills and learning strategies to improve focus and organization
2. Occupational Therapy: to better manage daily tasks, both on my farm and in my personal life, I'm embracing techniques that help streamline my routines
3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): this will be instrumental in addressing underlying thought patterns and helping me develop healthier coping mechanisms
4. Lifestyle Changes: I've always believed in the power of a healthy lifestyle — regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep have become even more critical in managing my symptoms
5. Embracing Neuroplasticity: I am a firm believer in the brain's ability to change and adapt — as I learn more about myself and these diagnoses, I am committed to healing and sharing what I learn
AuDHD is an unofficial but commonly used term within the neurodiversity community to describe the co-occurrence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) — this term acknowledges the intertwined nature of these two diagnoses — AuDHD is not a clinical term but rather a community-adapted label
Some key points about AuDHD:
1 — AuDHD is more common than initially recognized — studies suggest that a significant proportion of individuals with ASD also present with comorbid ADHD symptoms
2 — both ASD and ADHD share common symptoms, such as inattention, atypical movements (like fidgeting or stimming behaviors), social difficulties, and differences in learning style — however, despite these overlaps, each condition also has its unique characteristics
3 — historically, medical guidelines did not allow for a dual diagnosis of ADHD and ASD — however, this perspective has evolved, acknowledging the possibility and prevalence of individuals exhibiting symptoms of both conditions
4 — individuals with AuDHD may face unique challenges due to the overlap and interaction of symptoms from both ASD and ADHD — this can include greater difficulties in social settings, communication, concentration, and impulse control
5 — managing AuDHD often requires a tailored approach that addresses the complexities of both ASD and ADHD — this might include behavioral therapies, educational support, medication for ADHD symptoms, and strategies to improve social and communication skills
6 — the term AuDHD reflects a growing recognition within the neurodiversity movement of the unique experiences and needs of people who do not fit neatly into a single diagnostic category
Understanding AuDHD is crucial for providing appropriate support and interventions that address the combined challenges of ASD and ADHD — it emphasizes the importance of viewing neurodevelopmental disorders through a holistic lens that considers the full range of an individual's experiences and needs
I’m creating my own term, for my own condition, Autistic Distraction Disorder (AuDD) — characterized by mild forms of autism and not so mild forms of inattention — not surprisingly, for me, this year of 2024 is all about reclaiming my attention, first and foremost through the elimination of distraction — one week into my six week cleanse, without the major distractions of social media and alcohol, I’m starting to see an improved ability to focus . . . . now, what was I saying? oh, right . . . I think I’m beginning to reclaim my attention!
Again, I share my story not just as a form of self-expression but for educational purposes — many people are living with undiagnosed ASD or ADHD — recognizing these conditions early in life can be incredibly beneficial — however, it's never too late to heal
As I continue to grow up, I intend to keep sharing the 'new and improved' versions of myself — this journey of self-discovery isn't just about coping with ASD and ADHD —it's about actualizing my potential as an older man in this ever-changing world — it’s about becoming an elder with wisdom — it’s ultimately about dying well, by virtue of having lived well, however we choose to do so
Together, let's embrace the journey of change and self-discovery — let's celebrate the small victories and learn from the challenges — I am so much more than these diagnoses — I’m devoted to healing them, and sharing what I learn about myself (and about this world we’re living in) along the way
Stay tuned as I continue to share my journey, and feel free to share your stories too
We’re all in this together
Until next time,
Farmer J