We can’t change how we are wired.But we can change how we interpret our sensitivities.

For many people, discovering they are neurodivergent, whether ADHD, autistic, or both, feels like the lights have finally been turned on.

Past experiences begin to make sense.

Struggles with anxiety, overwhelm, or exhaustion soften into understanding and self-compassion.

From there comes acceptance,

not a single moment, but an ongoing practice.

And then something powerful can happen.

When we stop fighting our sensitive brains,

when we loosen the exhausting effort of masking or trying to be who we think we should be,

we create space to reinterpret the signals our brain is constantly receiving.

Because neurodivergent brains often notice everything:

• Sounds, conversations, subtle shifts

• Body language, emotional tone

• lights, smells, textures, temperature

With the amygdala frequently on high alert,

a lifetime of interpreting these signals as threatening can fuel anxiety and chronic overwhelm.

But interpretation is not fixed.

With awareness, we can begin to shift from:

“This is a threat” → “This is something I notice”

“They’re judging me” → “My brain is reacting from old patterns”

Many people with ADHD or autism know the internal loops:

Am I too loud?

Too intense?

Did I interrupt?

Did I respond correctly?

While social awareness has its place, constant self-monitoring is draining, particularly when masking becomes a survival strategy rather than a choice.

What if we softened the judgement?

Reduced the fear?

Allowed noticing without spiralling?

In Adlerian terms, how others perceive us belongs to their life task, not ours to carry.

Awareness

Acceptance

Self-love

Retraining interpretation

Less energy spent fighting yourself.

More space to work with your wiring.

Because when we do:

• The nervous system finds more regulation

• Sensitivities become information, not danger

• Differences reveal strengths

And life can feel lighter

If this resonates with you, personally or professionally, especially if you’re navigating ADHD, autism, anxiety, or overwhelm, you’re not alone in the journey.

#autism #ADHD #neurodivergence