34. ADHD Journey with Journalist Helen Dewdney - Self Diagnosis and Dealing with Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria when Making Complaints

Helen Dewdney is a well-known journalist and consumer champion who regular features in the media on programs like Sky, ITV News, Rip Off Britain and Alexis and Friends, giving her advice and expertise on consumer matters. Over the years it became clear to her colleagues that she was Neurodivergent, unbeknown to her! Until one day it all clicked.

I met Helen through a Neurodivergent group we’re both a part of and LOVE Helens authenticity and straight-up approach. She has a huge passion for justice and she shares not only some great stories from her younger years, but some tips for fellow ADHDers on how to advocate for themselves when it comes to complaining.

This is something a lot of us find hard due to rejection sensitivities, something I hear more and more of that is common among ADHDers.

In this episode we talk about:

• How Helen’s friends and staff recognised her neurodivergent traits when she was working in children’s services

• Her struggles with reading people’s intentions and her straight-up approach • How her neurodivergent traits showed up when she was younger

• How important her sense of justice is, a common feeling among ADHDers, and how it’s shaped her career

• How as ADHDers we both find it hard to accept the first answer to a problem and demand a fullproof solution so that others don’t come up against the same struggles we did.

• How to get over your RSD and tips for making a complaint • Helen’s personal reasons for not seeking a diagnosis and how she’s put in place great support systems to manage any struggles

• Finishing the episode on our soapbox as we complain about smalltalk! If you liked this episode then please do follow as I’ve got more incredible guests lined up every week.

You can also find me over here:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/coulditbeadhd_thepodcast

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@coulditbeadhd

Website: www.coulditbeadhd.co.uk  On the website you’ll find a free downloadable resource to help you on the pathway to a diagnosis

You can also join my private Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/471027132415779 

If you want to find out more about Helen or download her book then you can find her details here: https://thecomplainingcow.co.uk/ 

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