Photo: Adie Livingstone Photography
Since becoming a mom I've wanted to do a post talking about how it is to be a neuro-divergent mom,
but I put it off as I didn't want it to come across like I focusing on the negatives and the labels I've been
given. Although I might have several diagnosis' and struggle with many aspects of my life, in no way
does it mean I'm a bad mom. Instead it means I have advantages and strengths in other areas.
WHAT DOES NEURO-DIVERGENT MEAN?
The term neuro-divergent describes those whose brain affects them differently than others. It often
refers to someone who is on the autism spectrum or has a mental health diagnosis. Being someone who
is neuro-divergent isn't a negative thing. There are many strengths as well as difficulties that come along.
Being a neuro-divergent parent doesn't affect your ability to parent, the care you give your child or the
love you have for them. It often affects the unplanned and unavoidable changes.
I could sit and write about how each of my diagnoses challenge me with parenting but I don't if we're
being honest, that's a very vulnerable position to put myself in especially on the internet for everyone to
read. I'm an open book and love sharing all sides of me, but at this moment in time, isn't something I'm
comfortable with and that's ok.
A huge challenge for me that I was expecting is sensory sensitivity. Over the years my sensory issues have
increased, mainly with sounds and multiple sounds at once. Since becoming mom this has heightened
more. Experiencing crying at different tones, background noise, other people talking as well as your own
thoughts becomes so overwhelming. I think it's very normal for parents to experience sensory sensitivity,
some with touch, noise and even smells. The difference in pitches and tones can become so overwhelming
and make me feel angry which I hate. I feel angry with myself that it's something I struggle with, when I
know it's simply my son trying to communicate his needs with me.
The unavoidable and unplanned changes are something I'm trying to prepare myself for as I know they are
inevitable in both life and parenting, however this is a challenge I'm yet to face mainly due to his age and
not being at nursery/school or in extra curriculum experiences. At the moment we have a slight routine in
regards to rough times, however I'm not super strict as I don't want to force him into things such as
sleeping and eating when he doesn't want too. I'm in a very fortunate position to be able to cancel plans
and adjust to my sons needs, whereas I know this won't always be the case.
For as long as I can remember I have suffered with OCD. Mine is very much cleanliness and orderliness.
I've surprised myself with how well I've managed at this but I'd be lying I said it didn't affect me slightly. I
very much know that I will miss the days when toys scattered my floor, but I do still like things to be tidy.
Once Codey naps or goes to sleep at night, the toys and miniature furniture is the first to be put away and
my home returns to an 'adult' home and space for me again.
My longest diagnosis is Aspergers (a form of Autism, now known as ASD), and although this was a huge
struggle for me growing up my main challenge is now social situations. I struggle to push myself out of
my comfort zone and tend to be a creature of habit. Having a baby means I can't do this. I can't spend my
free time at home in my comfort zone and happy place. Whether it's a simple walk around the block, a
baby class or meeting a friend for a coffee, it's definitely something I need to work on still and am pushing
myself to do, not only for my son but also for myself!
Parenting is always a challenge and there are always new obstacles
to face and I am always going to do the best that I can.
xoxo
Lea-Mai
I think being neuro divergent also gives you advantages. Parenting is hard but rewarding. You do you, and keep being the strong, caring, loving person you are. I had my struggles raising you, but we did good together xx
ReplyDeleteThank you! Learning and growing together x
DeleteThis is such an interesting read and a perspective I've not read much from so well done you for sharing this. I'm not neurodivergent but I totally get what you mean about when the noise level is just too high. I think that's the thing that stresses me out the most
ReplyDeleteRosie
https://www.loverosiee.co.uk
Thank you! I think a lot of parents struggle with the noise overload and sensitive to senses, but not many talk about it x
DeleteIt was so interesting reading your perspective as a neuro-divergent parent, you're doing incredible lovely and you should be so proud of yourself, I think you're an amazing mum! x
ReplyDeleteLucy Mary
Thank you! Doing my best which is all that matters x
DeleteOh god the crying and the touching! I really struggle with this. I get so overstimulated at times!
ReplyDeleteCorinne x
https://skinnedcartree.com
I really love the snuggles and everything but when he gets overwhelmed he pinches and it's really hard to focus on the bigger pitcher! x
DeleteLoved reading this Lea. It's not something I've read too much about or have much experience in, so well done you for sharing! I'm not neurodivergent but can relate on the sensory overload thing. This is something I definitely struggle with. It's difficult because it's so hard not to get overstimulated by EVERYTHING going on around you, but when you do struggle you feel bad for it. Such a vicious cycle. Brilliant post my love. You're doing an amazing job with Codey!! His outfit in the first picture!! So cute. X
ReplyDeleteThank you! I'm starting to think being parent is about being overstimulated constantly and trying to see what you can do x
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