A few years ago, I came across Dr. Elaine Aron’s work on high sensitivity, and I’ve considered myself a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) ever since. Sensitivity is somewhat more of a “mainstream” topic now, but I certainly felt like I was quite early to the party back then.
What followed was coming into contact with other sensitive folks online — self-professed HSPs, *INFPs and *INFJs.
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*These are Myers-Briggs personality types
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As I continued to experience the world, both digitally and IRL (‘in real life’), in the middle of 2022 I started to notice some ADHD traits.
I was tentative, but curious.
What followed was excitement, anxiety, confusion and a whole lot more.
I shared what I suspected with my parents over a video call… nervously waiting for their reaction.
ADHD sort of felt exciting and cool, manageable even.
And then about a year ago… I started to notice some autistic traits too.
This word felt more loaded and heavy; one of my initial reactions was “sh*t, if it was hard enough sharing with folks about my suspected ADHD, how on earth am I going to share this?”
“Am I imagining it? Am I making excuses? Am I being a victim?”
Those closest to me did not think I should get a diagnosis. I heard all sorts of reasons why. I largely kept things to myself this whole time, yo-yo-ing between whether I should get assessed or not.
I made a booking… and cancelled it, having the advice of others ringing in my ears.
I re-booked, and had an appointment in February this year, nearly 6 months after I was due to have that first appointment.
I was told that I am neurodivergent.
And it’s been empowering.
So I wanted to share my story with you.
Happy Equinox,
Jasraj xo
