Dec 15 2023 56 mins
What if uncovering the roots of your struggle with anxiety, attention, or substance use led you to a surprising realization? Imagine tracing those roots back to a generational trauma linked to undiagnosed neurodivergence in your family. That's a journey many of us embarked upon, including yours truly, leading to late-life ADHD diagnoses that reverberated through our family dynamics. We offer a candid exploration of the ripple effects of these discoveries, including the inherited coping mechanisms and behavioral patterns that can carry heavy burdens such as substance dependence.
Unraveling our own neurodivergence led us to recognize some startling behaviors learned from our families, like using food as a crutch or wrestling with social anxiety. Hear firsthand accounts of our participants who discovered ADHD later in life and the unique challenges and insights it brought to their familial relationships. Our stories underscore the crucial importance of breaking generational cycles and the power of awareness in setting ourselves on a path of positive transformation.
Finally, we tackle the often overlooked aspect of such a profound revelation - the toll it takes on our mental health and the strength it requires to confront and process our traumas. With vulnerability and honesty, we share how we're navigating these challenges, building bridges of understanding with our loved ones, and embracing our neurodivergence. We believe in the power of open dialogue about mental health and the role it plays in shattering stigmas. Come join us on this journey as we shed light on a lesser-discussed aspect of mental health - the echoes of generational trauma through the lens of neurodivergence.
Lobow’s SPARK is proudly supported by Leo Guinan, Kirk Hofstrom, Casey Elliot, Sarah Delano, Justin Allingham, Blushing Crafter, Jamie Young, and Beth Jones. It is also supported by 10 anonymous supporters. Whether you want to be mentioned by name or remain anonymous, this podcast does not exist without you. Thank you so much for your support.
Lobow’s SPARK has started a fundraising effort for Crisis Text Line. We have a goal of $19 per episode as $19 supports one person in their time of absolute crisis with their mental health. If you would like to donate through our fundraiser in titled “Lauren’s Infinity”, the link is listed below.
https://www.classy.org/fundraiser/3638033
The background music during the recognition parts of this episode, was written by Guy Farmer. Look him up on Itunes!!
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