Over the next six to eight weeks in December and January
(but starting this week!), I am hosting a FREE round table series of ADHD/Autism discussions.  Each week I invite adult autistics and ADHDers (as well as AuDHDers) to discuss topics they consider relevant and important.

This week began with: “ADHD/Autism & Managing the
Holidays.” 

Here’s a recap: Most of the challenges associated with
holidays are not because of Autism or ADHD.  It’s from trying to fit into traditions or expectations that don’t work for us or don’t prioritize our needs.

Add the lack of present time awareness, (temporal
discounting), it’s all a recipe for poor boundaries.

Today, we dove into the importance of setting intentions and
managing expectations in our interactions. ​

Here are some of the highlights:

~It’s crucial to set your intentions ahead of time.

~Accept things as they are and find that sweet spot where you expect people might not understand, but don’t
assume they won’t. This mindset can help reduce emotional momentum and make interactions smoother.

~When engaging with others, especially family, it’s important to recognize that people often lack information about autism and ADHD. Think of it as navigating different
cultures—many don’t realize the existence of subcultures within our society.

~We can sometimes experience a “freeze response,” in interactions where we might wish we could address things in the moment, but we lack the capacity to do so. There’s always later. Or never.

~Having conversations with family can be challenging. Consider how many of them truly “get it.” Are you
afraid of risking those important relationships? Remember, there’s no specific behavior that defines autism or ADHD, and we can’t reach everyone. However, we can make an impact within our reach. When we are able. If we are able.

Stay tuned for more insights brought to you direct from
autistics and ADHDers on autism and ADHD.

Please⁠ join us⁠ in our next ADHD/Autism roundtable which will be addressing “⁠Navigating Relationships
and Renewing Friendships with ADHD and Autism⁠“
scheduled for December 10, 2024 at 9:30 am PST.

  ⁠CLICK HERE⁠ to sign-up and register.