Matt Gupwell.com

No-one wants to get “it” wrong when talking about Neurodiversity..

 But what does “it” really mean? And how do you get “it” right?

 

Organisations are often cautious and concerned about getting it wrong when it comes to neurodiversity awareness for several reasons:

* Inclusivity and Respect: 

* Legal and ethical obligations 

* Employee wellbeing and productivity 

* Talent acquisition and retention 

* Public perception & reputation 

* Lost innovation and creativity 

* Missed business opportunities 

* Training and resources 

* Change management challenges 

* Lack of knowledge 

What does this mean to you? 

By failing to address these concerns, organisations risk alienating a significant portion of their workforce, missing out on unique perspectives, and suffering public backlash. This could further lead to decreased productivity, high turnover rates, and potential missed business opportunities.

So why work with Matt?

 

Matt is a professional neurodiversity awareness consultant who brings a blend of research-based knowledge and lived experience to the table. By doing so, you benefit from expert guidance that is both academically sound and personally informed. Matt provides insights that go beyond textbook knowledge, ensuring a holistic understanding of neurodiversity.

The combination of these perspectives ensures a comprehensive approach, bridging theory with real-world applications, and offers a genuine representation of the neurodiverse community. This will result in a more inclusive, empathetic, and effective organisational approach to 
neurodiversity.


Matt is a respected Professional Speaker, Consultant, Trainer and a Mentor to individuals with ADHD and autism.

He lives and breathes understanding of neurodiversity and will inspire and motivate others to want to do the best they can to support Neurodivergent people.

Crucially though, this isn't a Them and Us approach.

It's an Awareness, Acceptance, Education and Inclusion approach.

Neurodiversity professional

Think Neurodiversity 

Offering 1-2-1 Mentoring sessions to people trying to understand their own ADHD and Autism. Also offer sessions for partners, family and colleagues.

ADHD and Autism Mentor 

Helping organisations in the business of providing excellent visitor experiences put Neurodiversity at the heart of everything they do. 

With decades of experience in the travel, tourist and visitor experience industry working for major international brands, I am uniquely placed to lead Neurodiversity Awareness training for organisations within this sector.

My sessions range from top level awareness introductions for all staff through to full assessments of venues and attractions.

The findings from these assessments help create the training and development that will ensure all guests will feel accepted, understood and enabled.

Neurodiversity Awareness Trainer

 thinkneurodiversity.com & mattgupwell.com 

I'm a keynote speaker and professional advocate on the topic of Neurodiversity Awareness. I'm available to speak at events and train your organisation in person or virtually.

I focus on WHY full understanding of Neurodiversity and Neurodivergent conditions is vital for all organisations.

 I start by focusing on the real commercial benefits in terms of reduction of time taken off sick by employees who reach breaking point. 

To achieve this I use lived experience, researched information and statistics that help explain what needs to be done, how it needs to be done and why no organisation can afford not to.

My keynote talk is brutally honest, engaging and filled with humour and lived was experience. It also ends by asking everyone present to commit to taking positive action to be more Neurodivergent aware.

My work as a consultant and trainer is similarly focussed.

I believe that unless the starting point is by showing clients what the real impact on their organisation is of not having the correct knowledge that there is no context with which they can make decisions about how to do things better.

I use a combination of the most up to date research, humour and over a decade of presentation and training experience to ensure the training I deliver exceeds expectations and has actionable benefits from day 1.

Keynote speaker on Neurodiversity and Neurodiversity Awareness Consultant. 

The Oaktree Clinic - Doctors and therapists working Remotely and Hard during COVID Outbreak

User representative for OakTree. Providing non clinical advise and advocacy to potential and existing patients.

Non Executive Board Member

In 2008 my world changed forever with the diagnosis of my first born, 4 year old son with Autism. In 2010 his younger brother would be diagnosed as well. 

From that point on I was obsessed with understanding them and what their condition meant. 

I never imagined that 10 years later I'd be diagnosed with Autism and ADHD as well. 

I am now a respected neurodiversity professional with global client. 


I am:

* Professional Speaker
* Consultant 
* Trainer 
* Mentor
* Podcast and interview guest

I am  passionate about the education and enabling of people like me who are Neurodivergent.

My passion is the continued education of as many people as possible on the topic of Neurodiversity Awareness. 



💬 Speaking:

I always craft unique talks based on my clients needs. These combine the latest research and knowledge with my own personal experiences to deliver meaningful, poweful and memorable experiences. 

These have included:

💬What is Neurodiversity anyway? 

💬 ADHD, Autism and Addiction. Why are they so often linked? 


Consultantacy and Training:

My Top down approach is proven to be effective. 

Working with clients including:

✅ Chubb
✅ Dept of Trade and Industry 
✅ Greenwich University 
✅ ASOS 
✅In House Recruitment 


I provide. 


✅  SLT and Exec team training. 

✅ Neurodiversity Awareness introduction sessions. 

✅ Lunch and learns. 

Which address common concerns that all teams have including:

✅ Fear of getting "it wrong". 

✅ Understanding the positives instead of focusing on the deficits. 

✅ Creating a neuroclusive culture that supports everyone. 

Leading to comments like this:

🗨️ The team were blown away by your presentation and some were also genuinely quite moved by what they learnt. Thank you so much and I’m really very pleased you were able to shift the dial with the team. 

🗨️ Matt, you are incredible. Your enthusiasm, honesty and passion left a lasting effect on all the team. Thank you again. 



💬 Advocacy, panel discussions and podcasts:

✅ I'm available to speak about my own lived experience as a late diagnosed adult as well as a parent to Neurodivergent children and a long time educator of Neurodivergent children and adults.

✅ I'm also an vastly experienced host and moderator for panel discussions.


Lastly:

I'm a busy and respected Mentor for other people with ADHD and Autism who are seeking actionable help in understanding, navigating and living with new diagnoses.

If you'd like to discuss how we can work together EMAIL ME: 

matt@mattgupwell.com

Quick, everyone lynch Joe Wicks. He's anti ADHD. Look he "said it in the Daily Mail". 





Did Joe Wicks say, directly that ultra processed foods cause ADHD?


Guess what? No. He didn't.


Here's what a quick extraction of the article said:


"In the article, Joe Wicks does not directly say that ultra-processed foods cause ADHD.


Instead, he discusses his personal experiences and observations, suggesting a potential link between poor diet and behavioural issues he experienced as a child, which he feels could be similar to those seen in children diagnosed with ADHD today.


He emphasizes the impact of a diet high in sugar and low in nutrients on energy levels and the ability to focus, rather than making a direct claim about ultra-processed foods causing ADHD."



Now to add to this. Yes, clinical studies https://lnkd.in/eTGkF5E7 have shown that high consumption of ultra processed and sugary foods DO affect base line concentration in children who are not known to have preexisting conditions.



So, the witch hunt, the articles all calling him out are all reactionary.


If you want to 'hunt' someone, complain to the Daily Fail. Complain to the "journalist" (stretch to call them that but there you go)


But, check who actually said what first please.


Joe simply referenced his own childhood experiences.


Interestingly what he doesn't in the article reference is that he came from a deeply troubled home, with known neurodivergence including OCD and addiction and so his behaviour 'may' have been affected by the ongoing trauma he was suffering while 4 his poor diet exacerbated things rendering his concentration worse.




Matt  Gupwell

Having an extremely validating experience at the UKAAN conference.


I'm no longer uncertain about my understanding and knowledge of ADHD, autism and wider neurodivergence.


It's been incredibly validating to be told be people that my work and my approach is seen and is respected.


I'm also humbled and flattered to have met and been told by the President of UKAAN that he's delighted to have met me and is excited discuss how we can work together to properly share information, research and facts with people living with and those supporting people with ADHD in ways that demystify clinical information into real world understanding.


All of this gives me renewed focus to:

* develop the VBLDproject and see it being a conduit for this type of information.

* keep making the TALKADHD with Andrew Jay. 

🌟 Well, Knock Me Down with a Feather! 🌟

This morning, I mused about being a bit of a Marmite figure in the neurodiversity community—loved by some, misunderstood by others. Yet, here I am, grinning from ear to ear, as I share some rather unexpected but fantastic news!

I've been nominated for the Positive Role Model Award for Disability, sponsored by OVO Group, at the esteemed National Diversity Awards, in association with HSBC UK. 

The National Diversity Awards is a gala that celebrates the exceptional efforts of those who fight for diversity and inclusion, highlighting the heroes and charities that confront inequality head-on. To say I'm pleasantly surprised to find myself among the ranks of Britain's most inspirational people is an understatement. This nomination is both an honour and a delightful shock.

This recognition goes beyond personal achievement; it symbolizes our shared journey towards embracing and understanding neurodiversity. It’s a celebration of every voice, every challenge overcome, and every advocate who believes in making society more inclusive for all.

My heartfelt thanks go to the National Diversity Awards, HSBC UK, OVO Group, and you—my supporters, challengers, and fellow Marmite aficionados. Your support fuels my passion and dedication to our cause.

As we anticipate the awards ceremony, let's reflect on the diversity of thought, experience, and perspective that enriches our community. Here’s to breaking more barriers, challenging more stereotypes, and continuing our journey towards an inclusive society where everyone belongs.

Thank you for standing by me, for pushing me forward, and for believing that together, we can make a lasting difference.

🔗 To learn more about the National Diversity Awards and their impactful work, click https://lnkd.in/e6_s5mDQ.

🔗 To vote for me: https://lnkd.in/e3NCNPE7

#NationalDiversityAwards #PositiveRoleModel #DisabilityAwareness #Neurodiversity #InclusionMatters

(by the way - it's 10:45, and this came out of the blue so yes, I've enlisted "help" writing this post, but I dictated the rather tired, original version!)

Such a tragedy. this neurotype gets so little attention. Sending support to all my dyspraxic colleagues today.

As I start a new day of neurodiversity training, I find myself reflecting. 



Yesterday's experience wasn't just another day; it was a reminder of how I'm changing. 




Understanding my ADHD and autism has transformed not just my self-awareness, but also my interactions and approach.




Gone are the days when I was concerned with being liked by peers,  trying to be more "palatable".  That was the ADHD, love me love me Matt. I had a chip in my shoulder for sure. 



Now, my autism is more obvious, I'm more direct, more assured in what I say and I say it only if it aligns with what I really feel. 


I've come to see myself as somewhat of a Marmite figure. Love me or not, that's become less of a concern. 🤷‍♂️  



It's not about whether I'm liked, it's about whether I'm honest. It's why I'm more focused on being able to evidence the things I say than ever. 



My focus? Doing my best. Helping others. Preparing a brighter future for my sons.



I no longer strive to control perceptions or opinions of others, nor do I feel mine aren't valid.



Instead, I'm always advocating for balance, especially in discussions about "neurosuperpowers".



So, today, I start with Marmite on toast 🍞, a symbol of my acceptance of myself. 



Comfortable in my mission, I'm here to make a difference, one day, one client at a time. 



The feedback I recieve from my clients tells me that I'm doing that every time. That's all the motivation I need. 


The Joe Wicks debate has led me to an interesting place. 


You see someone like Joe Wicks has the opportunity to speak on behalf of or to represent a lot of people, whether that's parents of children or whether that's giving children the sense that someone's on their side and whilst he has made unhelpful comments, I believe his heart still remains in the right place. I've messaged him to say as much. I won't join in on the attacking and vilifying him. It's unnecessary and achieves nothing. 


However we're now halfway through autism acceptance month and I can wholeheartedly say that I feel like the man in this image. 


I am not seeing representations that I feel relate to me or people in a similar place to me, who are autistic or AuDHD . 


It's beginning to feel like there's a look and a presentation of autism that's so far removed from me and how I have ever or am ever likely to look and present that's making it really difficult to feel like there's a voice for people like me.


I'm just not seeing any reflection of my experiences in the public domain and I'll be honest with you that worries me.


Because it feels too me that unless I speak like, look like, present like and say the same things about autism, adhd or wider ND topics as everyone else, who meets the recognised "look" I'm shut out of the conversations.


It's the epitome of being pale, male and stale and therefore not being important enough.



So, I'm wondering where the representation is for me, for those like me?


Because, I've not seen it and that's making me sad, worried and I definitely am not feeling accepted even by those in what's supposed to be my community. 

The ongoing debate about what Joe Wicks said in an interview and whether he made claims that ultra-high processed foods and high-sugar foods cause ADHD has been fascinating for me that is simply down something of a rabbit hole as I'm sure it may have others so here's where I'm at now.
 
I completely understand the passion, the anger and the feelings of being attacked that lots of people have displayed because they've taken what was misquoted in the Daily Mail or because some form of almost confirmation bias has led them to read or hear something that was not said as evidenced by the transcript of the interview.
 
First, we must clarify that ADHD is primarily a neurodevelopmental disorder with a strong genetic component. The scientific consensus shows us that whilst diet does not cause ADHD it can influence each presentation and the severity in those already diagnosed with the condition. This is a distinction between causation and exacerbation that is very important.
 
The huge body of research available suggests that certain dietary elements including the consumption of artificial additives and sugars may exacerbate symptoms like hyperactivity and impulsivity in some people with ADHD. However, it's true that these effects are not uniform and vary greatly from one person to another. This means that while some individuals with ADHD may experience symptom relief through dietary changes others may see no impact.
 
A balanced diet rich in Whole Foods and low in processed items is generally recommended for overall health in all of us and yes it could potentially help in alleviating ADHD symptoms. Now this doesn't claim that improving diet alone will mitigate ADHD it just suggests that nutritional approaches can be part of a more comprehensive approach to managing the condition.
 
The fact that there is so much ongoing research into the relationship between diet and ADHD highlights how complex this disorder is and the factors that can influence its symptoms. It's not fair or accurate to dismiss discussions about the potential role of diet in managing ADHD as entirely unfounded no matter where those comments may come from. Rather these discussions should prompt us to explore how dietary interventions might be able to support existing treatment strategies.
 
The calls for apologies and retractions from Joe Wicks based on the comments he made in an interview, in my are reactionary based on what was perceived he said, rather than the facts. For me, it's essential to engage in these discussions with a balanced perspective to recognise the role of diet as one of many factors that may influence the condition rather than a singular cause or cure.
 
So, whilst diet is not a causative factor in ADHD evidence suggests that it can affect some individuals in terms of symptom severity. Therefore, having an open well-informed dialogue based on all of the available current research could help us better understand how to manage ADHD.

Why did I spend someones 21st birthday last night discussing their experience working for a group providing retail franchises within petrol stations? 


Because, the person in question, who I consider my 3rd son, a young man with severe ADHD, Autism and anxiety issues has been treated so appallingly that it's painful.  He's also part of the 'missing middle' I'm so passionate about. 


After openly declaring his ADHD on application, when he told his manager, during his probation, that the role of Shift Leader was too much for him and that it had triggered his anxiety, that he felt he would cope better as a team member on reduced hours, (sounds like a request for a reasonable adjustment to me) this was his experience. 


* He was told to take go on sick to decide what he wanted to do. 


* He was privately messaged the next day via WhatsApp and among other things told "for the good of the business and to rescue his anxiety, to resign his current position and to reapply as a team member. When he felt better". 


* Has since been put on a shift tomorrow - as shift leader - pending a return to work interview. He was offered no context, no ability to bring a representative and clearly his request for a reasonable adjustment were ignored. 


I'm so sad. Angry. Frustrated.


Currently he feels like he's going to be sacked anyway. He probably will be. 


This should not be happening. 


All because he can't mask. Yes, I said can't. He doesn't have the social ability or capacity to. 


He can't get through the day doing his best to 'be like everyone else'. 


He's who he is. Heart and emotion of his sleeve. 


And he's being taken advantage of. Essentially bullied out of a role instead of supported to stay in it. All because of one managers attitude and lack of training. 


This has to stop!


For him and for all those like him. 





Great news for employees in the United Kingdom! Starting April 6, 2024, flexible working laws will change, offering exciting new opportunities for the workforce. Here are the key points you need to know:

- Immediate Request: Employees can make a statutory request for permanent changes to their contract starting from their first day of employment.
- Employer Obligations: Employers must handle these requests in a reasonable manner, including assessing advantages and disadvantages, discussing the request with the employee, and offering an appeal mechanism if needed.
- Frequency of Requests: Employees can now make two flexible working requests within any 12-month period.

This means that right from day one, employees can request adjustments related to working hours, start and finish times, and work location. Whether it's adjusting your work hours, finding a better balance, or exploring remote work options, employees in the UK now have more flexibility right from the start of their employment journey! Remember, if an employer fails to handle the request reasonably, the employee has the right to take the matter to an employment tribunal. 

 #FlexibleWorking	#UKJobs
#EmploymentLaw #WorkLifeBalance
#HR

When you're asked your thoughts on how autism is portrayed in film and tv while discussing autism with Sony Pictures Entertainment


Tiny bit awkward.....


Because, as I said, the answer is - in my experience and opinion, that there's never been a truly brilliant representation of autism in film or tv because they inherently always have to be slightly parodied.


It's about displaying that the character is autistic based on the audiences reference points for what autisn looks like.


So, that's never going to go well.


Because like has been said thousands of times before, there's no 1 typical presentation of autism.


Heck, just look on here at how differently all the voices your follow who have autism speak, write, present. 


Still it was a great question and one I hope I did justice to. 

Always a pleasure to work with the team there as well. 


So wonderful to see all the engagement and genuine desire to understand, help and support others. 




I'm feeling very fortunate at the moment about the way my life has changed, how my career is continuing to develop and about the opportunities I have been given by people who like marmite 😉


So this is a summary of things that I'm deeply proud of, flattered by and if I'm honest, still in shock over.


1) I'm now a proud Co-Director of NDdirected with Michael Leibe  and Richard Peachey, Psychological Safety and Neurodiversity Advocate 


This means a huge amount that they asked me to join them based on my experience in the world of Neurodiversity awareness, my reputation for fact based, plain speaking information and on the work they know I've done supporting others so far.


I'm really excited about the things we've got planned that I truly believe have the capacity to provide care and support for all Neurodivergent people in the community in ways which are currently often financially prohibitive.


2) I'm deeply honoured to have been asked to attend the 2024 UKAAN (UK Adult ADHD Network) annual conference this April.


I'm not a clinician, nor do I count myself in the ranks of the stellar line up of minds both attending and speaking at the conference.


But, knowing again that I've been asked because of my reputation for the way I speak, because I'm seen as a credible voice on the topic is, quite frankly something I'd never have imagined.


I'm really looking forward to hearing the latest research, clinical and lived research and being able to apply that to my own work. 


3) Over 80 people have now taken the time to leave their thought along with their votes for me on the National Diversity Awards website. 


I won't win. But I'm my mind I already have. Because those comments that span 2009 through to today show me that I've been having a positive impact on people's lives for a very long time. 


4) I continue to work with and recieve incredible feedback from the clients I work with both the corporate and private mentoring clients and that feedback again proves that whatever I'm doing, I'm doing it well. 


The little boy, the young man, the adult who has always felt like a fraud, waiting to be caught is now a very proud man who's finally comfortable that what he does, the way he does it and the impact that work has is important, does help and has been doing so since 2009. 


To all who continue to support me, work with me and allow me to do this work. 



Thank you. 





You know what? Seeing Cathrine Gupwell share this means more than the world to me.

My life has changed in ways I'd never have imagined were possible and I am so grateful to her for never giving up on me, on us.

This year is our 25th wedding anniversary and I'm so bloody happy that we're together, stronger then ever and that I know things are going to keep getting better as well. 

💜❤️💜❤️💜❤️💜❤️💜❤️💜❤️

Spent a bit of time reading the comments on Matt's nominations page for the National Diversity Awards (all have names withheld so we dont know who said what) from the people who have voted for Matt.
I got so overwhelmed by all the kind and beautiful things people have said about him it moved me to tears. 
A year ago, I was in doubt over whether our marriage would survive - reading everyone's comments has shown me that others see what I have always seen (and loved) in Matt and that, goodness me, it was worth the hard work to rebuild our relationship.
I'm just so grateful to all who have voted and contributed such kind and thoughtful comments, it means so much more than you can imagine.💕

I’ve been reflecting a lot lately, particularly since being nominated for an award and it's lead to some interesting discussions with respected peers. 


What it's highlited is that I'm clearly still doing things the way I set out to 15 years ago.  My aim has always been to help others, inspired by the help I received when I needed it most.


However, I’ve noticed a trend in the conversations about neurodiversity awareness, whether online or in mainstream media—it often feels repetitive and limited to those well promoted or media connected voices. Individuals, businesses and even leaders of charities who speak on behalf of everyone else, frequently and often. 


I know I'm not alone in feeling that sometimes trying to share any information or opinion that's not held by those with PR or media strategies behind them is like speaking into a void. 


The truth is there are many individuals committed to making a difference, yet their contributions are being overlooked, overshadowed  and not heard by as wide an audience as they deserve. 


It’s essential to acknowledge that expertise and insight come from a diverse group of individuals, not just those who are, because of their contacts, more visible in the media.


This is why I am proud to be a co-director of a CIC, NDdirected. It's means I have more opportunities to do the work I set out to do. To make real difference. 


This isn't about writing books, media appearances or being the 'faces' of neurodiversity awareness. Rather about quietly, passionately and with intent doing work that simply helps people, at low or no cost that has lasting impact on people and communities. 


Tonight I want to say Thank you to all who take meaningful action to improve the lives of others. 


Your work is just a valuable as that of the more prominent, visible and promoted personalities that others may see more. 


Your efforts are vital and valued and I am grateful for your work.  Don't get disheartened, get motivated to keep being you. Because you are appreciated. 
 

Being nominated in the National Diversity Awards is a real surprise for me. 


Yes, it's among the biggest, most over subdcribed category.


Yes, for various reasons my chance of being shortisted, let alone winning is if I'm honest very slim.


But, having recieved 80 votes so far do you know what?


It doesn't matter.


In a week where I've questioned my place in this community, questioned my credibility and whether what I do makes a difference, I've been reminded that as someone in recovery once said to me;

"feelings aren't facts"

This morning I feel:

Incredibly humbled.

Incredibly proud.

Reinvigorated with motivation to keep being me.

Because I've read the words people have shared about me, these are the facts that tell me and that since 2008 I've been:


✨ passionately advocating for others

✨ supporting others with no agenda other than helping others

✨ doing what I'm now lucky to call a career.


Here's just 2 of the comments left for me that remind me that plaudits or not, I have an impact on people.


"Matt has been an amazing support for myself and my family. I first contacted Matt to discuss my son and he very quickly understood my own neurodivergence.

He mentored me through to getting a diagnosis and supported me in getting the correct medication for someone with ADHD and high level anxiety, something the GP didn’t even realise. 

He uses his well researched knowledge, personal experience and intuition to provide the most incredible support. He gave me great support and knowledge for my son too. 


He is also the main speaker on neurodivergence at our cricket club Edgbaston, where my husband is son the committee. His recent talks there helped support my husband in getting an Autism diagnosis for his son. 


Matt helps you see all the positives of your diagnosis but also prepare and move past the negatives. I can’t thank him or recommend him enough for this award. So very well deserved Matt and an honour just to be nominated"


"Matt is an amazingly positive human being who has done so much to support my daughter over many years from her early junior school years. 


Now almost 20 she has fond memories of Jester Academy (a circus skills club that became a safe place for many ND children in the multiple schools and holiday club settings he ran it) and the support Matt gave her. 


Through adversity Matt has never given up, always seeking new ways of raising awareness for neurodiversity. 

He is simply a wonderful person and I wish him all the luck in the world with this nomination"

This week I'm starting with a pinch me moment.


When I was diagnosed in 2019 with ADHD, I never in my wildest imagination thought I'd be attending a conference like this.


The UK Adult ADHD Network conference.


Why?


Because it's for those who are at the forefront of research, policy and creating understanding about ADHD. About what care looks like now and should look like.


To be invited along to offer my perspective as someone trying to support and educate others is incredibly humbling for me.


I'm going to listen intently, speak honestly and yes, I'm going to allow myself to feel proud that someone else thinks I have a place at this table.


I don't speak for everyone. Noone does. But I speak to help, improve support, education and care. 


In a room full of experts I'm going to be the only thing I can be, brutally honest.


This is huge for me.




My thoughts at the start of Autism Acceptance Week/Month.

Thanks to Autism West Midlands for being there at the start of our families journey into the world of Autism Acceptance.

To The National Autistic Society for all the work they've done since their inception and that they continue to do.

To Hidden Disabilities Sunflower 💜for providing one of the simplest yet most effective services that help millions of us every day.

To my wife Cathrine Gupwell for being my rock, for being the most incredible mom to our two incredible sons.

To all the wonderful people I have had the privilage to work with, support and learn from well before this career was even an option, for it is them, their families and their stories and experiences when added to that of my families who remind me why what I say in the video is so important.

#AutismAcceptance

#AutismAcceptanceWeek

#AutismAcceptanceMonth

"They don't represent me. They don't speak for me. That's not my experience of Autism / ADHD".
 

I've heard these comments or similar too many times, especially this last week. 


Which is why, at the end of Autism acceptance week, I've taken the following away:


+ More voices: There are more people talking about early adult to very late life diagnosis of Autism then ever before. This is good.


+ AuDHD: The conversations  recognising that Autism and ADHD co-occur frequently have increased. This is excellent to see.


+ Confidence rising: More voices mean more people are able to speak about their experiences, from their viewpoints more confidently, this is complicated.


- The missing middle: Sadly last week, especially online, I saw little to no representation of, discussion of, or even acknowledgement of those who are in the middle.


- 'Me' doesn't equal everyone. Speaking about 'Me' is still being confused with speaking on behalf of 'everyone' and is causing the missing middle to be overlooked.


I've found it hard that this is what I take away from the week, I wanted to feel so much more positive. Yet, I have to be honest. 


I'm beginning to see it as the sad truth that social media doesn't do well representing those in the middle. 


Sadly, highlighting anything that isn't perceived as positive; touches a lot of nerves. Comments are met with derision, defensiveness, and hostility rather than opening more conversations about why these things are still happening and what can be done.


That's why my work as a speaker and consultant as well as with NDdirected cic is includes those in the middle, giving them the space and places to be seen and heard, so that even if they're not seeing representation online, they get to see it in person.

Mostly this is how I'm feeling after the past 2 days. Exhausted, mentally chewed up and spat out. But my word I would not have it any other way.


To my wonderful hosts who invited me to the UKAAN conference, thank you.  To everyone I met, spoke to and listened to, thank you.


I have been made to feel like I do have a place among you. That even though my background isn't clinical, medical or acedemic, what I say, the way I say it and the intent I say it with does;

✨ Matter.

✨Is respected. 

✨ Validates my experience and knowledge.

✨ Challenge narratives and make people think.

✨ Helps. It really does help.


More than that I have learnt not to deminish myself and what I bring to the conversation anymore. So next time someone calls me an expert on ADHD or Neurodiversity, do you know what, I'm going to own it.


However, now I'm home I'm going to let everything I've learned and heard settle in my head then contact some of the fabulous people I've connected with. There's going to some amazing podcasts coming up with  guests you won't hear anywhere else.


Who would have though my place was going to be the bridge between clinical and living experience?


I'm a very grateful man tonight.


My name is Matt. I'm a very proud Neurodiversity educator, professional and an expert at what I do. 

Many people self-identify as neurodivergent after a deep dive into understanding themselves.

Self-identifying is valid. You do not need an official diagnosis to identify as, or be accepted as, neurodivergent.

But I've been thinking about how you might decide whether or not to go for a formal assessment of autism or ADHD, is there any point? 

🌸Some people prefer a formal assessment because they want to access extra support (in work, or education, for example) and receiving a diagnosis could help them to access reasonable adjustments. I'd love to get to a point where this was not the case, but at the moment a diagnosis helps because it is supported by a legal framework under the Equalities Act (2010). 

🌸Some people say that an assessment helps them to improve their self understanding, and helps other people to understand them better.

🌸 Many neurodivergent people have been misdiagnosed with mental health problems. A formal assessment can help to understand mental health and neurodivergence.

🌸Assessment with me (or hopefully any clinical psychologist!) results in a psychological understanding, which is also known as a formulation. A formulation sits alongside a formal diagnosis, if one is given.

🌸Where a diagnosis is a shorthand for explaining someone's differences within the medical model, a formulation offers a narrative of someone's experiences, strengths and what might be keeping them stuck, from a psychological perspective. 

If you want to read more, I've written a blog post with more information and to help someone to weigh up the pros and cons of having an assessment:
🌸https://lnkd.in/eM9cG_jr

👇 If you self-identify as neurodivergent, I'd love to hear your thoughts about if, or when, you'd consider having a formal autism or ADHD assessment, or reasons why you wouldn't. 

#autism #adhd #autismawarenessweek


After a day where I began by feeling like I was more different then ever due to my reaction to what the rest of the neurodivergent community seemed to see as big news, getting this testamonial reminds me that I'm okay being different in a world that talks about difference.


Everything I do is with intent and purpose. I just want to help as much as I can.


Tonight I'm feeling better about not celebrating the same news as everyone else. 


I'm different, I don't say the same things, in the same way as everyone else and that's fine. 


It's not about being right or wrong as long as we're all trying to do the best for everyone we're seeking to support. 



Taplio

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