07309 563 563 ask@waymakers.co.uk
Learning to Unmask: Embracing My Neurodivergent Self

Learning to Unmask: Embracing My Neurodivergent Self

by | Sep 11, 2025 | ADHD, AuDHD, Autistic, Mental Health, Neurodivergent

What if the very things you were told to hide about yourself turned out to be your greatest strengths? 

When we talk about what makes humans so wonderfully varied, we have to talk about neurodiversity. Our brains work in countless different ways, and that’s not just okay, it’s part of what makes us creative, innovative, and capable of amazing things. Imagine if everyone thought the same way; would we still have the art, literature, scientific discoveries, or even space travel that we do today? It’s often the people who see the world differently who challenge the status quo and push us forward. 

For a long time, though, I didn’t see that in myself. 

Imagine if everyone thought the same way; would we still have the art, literature, scientific discoveries, or even space travel that we do today?

Hiding Who I Was

I’m a late-diagnosed AuDHDer. Looking back, I can see that I’ve always been a creator, a problem-solver, someone who asks why and sees new ways of doing things. But in school and early in my career, I learned that speaking up or challenging inconsistencies wasn’t always welcome. 

So, I adapted. I masked. I became a chameleon, changing myself to fit different environments and people. Over time, I built a version of myself that others found acceptable: the bubbly achiever, the person with the can-do attitude. And I was good at it. 

But masking came at a cost, to my mental health, my energy, even my sense of self. It took me nearly 50 years to realise that the parts of me I’d hidden -the questioning, challenging, justice-seeking parts were also the parts that made me who I am. 

I adapted. I masked. I became a chameleon.

Finding My Way Back

My diagnosis was a turning point. Suddenly, everything made sense: the sensory needs, the social exhaustion, the deep empathy that sometimes felt out of step with the world. I realised I wasn’t broken. I didn’t need fixing. 

For so long, I’d measured myself against society’s standards of productivity the constant push to do more, achieve more, be more. But that system isn’t built for everyone, and it certainly wasn’t built for me. Understanding my neurodivergence helped me stop trying to fit into a mould that was never mine to begin with. I’m not there yet, but I’m getting there

Know this: when we support neurodivergent people to be themselves, we open the door to incredible creativity and innovation.

Reclaiming My Strengths

Today, I see those so-called “difficult” traits for what they really are: catalysts for change. My ability to speak up, to question, to look at things differently, those are strengths. They’re also the same qualities that help me support and empower others.

I’ve embraced the things that bring me joy and calm: my own company, disappearing into books, collecting shells and stones, wandering through woods, taking 1000s of photos, watching Lord of the Rings or Buffy on repeat. These parts of me are just as valid as the ambitious, energetic side people have always seen. 

Living Authentically

I’m still learning, still figuring out how to create change from within; in my work, my community, and myself. But I know this: when we support neurodivergent people to be themselves, we open the door to incredible creativity and innovation. 

We don’t need to be fixed. We need to be understood. 

If you’ve ever felt out of step with the world, I hope this reminds you , you’re not alone. And there’s strength in the very things that make you different. 

Lynsey

This article was written by a past coaching client and the Community Advisor for WayMakers whom we are proud to have as a guest contributor to our site.

There’s a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in

There’s a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in

by | Oct 7, 2024 | Autistic, Communication, Inclusive, Mental Health, Neurodivergent

Title quote by Leonard Cohen.

About the AFAB Group

We are a small social group of 14-19 year old autistic girls, and those assigned a female gender at birth (AFAB). We come together once a week during term time in understanding and solidarity.

In May 2024 we all shared a special journey together into the world of Kinstugi, where with broken fragmants of pottery we set about rebuilding and repairing a series of pots.

The strength and solidarity we bring to each other is gold. This group means everything to me.

Anon – AFAB group member

About Kintsugi

Kintsugi, also known as Kintsukuroi, is the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum.

This practice not only restores the functionality of the broken item but also transforms it into a unique piece of art.

The word “kintsugi” translates to “golden joinery” or “golden repair,” highlighting the use of precious metals in the repair process.

It is often used as a metaphor for healing and recovery in life, suggesting that brokenness and repair can lead to a stronger, more beautiful whole.

The process

So the practical process goes likes this:

  1. Pots were purchased from our local charity shops. 
  2. We all went to a grassy area and, well, we smashed them.
  3. We gathered up the pieces and took them back to our AFAB room.
  4. We mixed together some glue and gold glitter.
  5. We stuck the pieces back together using the gold glue.
  6. We left the pots to dry in a ventilated area.
  7. We then placed them on a decorative plinth to display them and set out amongst them some relevant quotes that encapsulate Kintsugi.

Top Tip

Stick the pieces back together one at a time whilst leaving time for the glue to dry in between because otherwise it all turns into one big sticky, slidy mess!

Images and quotes from our Kintsugi experience

To grow is to change. Change can be scary. It causes you to dive deep into your inner self. It’s hard to go diving, to find our strength.

We need to break open to grow and become everything we can be in the world.

AH – AFAB group member

I’ve had multiple set-backs and losses. There were times when I felt I had no strength to keep going. I have learned I am stronger than I ever thought possible.

When everything falls apart the reconstruction is almost impossible, but so satisfying. I’m badass!

AD – AFAB group member

broken pinky red pot with someone holding the bits together

AFAB group

This article was written in collaboration with the members of our AFAB group whom we are proud to have as guest contributors to our site.

My journey – altruistic, non-directed living kidney donation

My journey – altruistic, non-directed living kidney donation

by | Dec 11, 2023 | Autistic, Giving

On December 13th 2022, I did the best thing I’ve ever done and maybe will ever do: I donated my right kidney to a stranger. As we arrived at the Royal London Hospital, my mother was very nervous. I on the other hand was completely calm: I’d never felt as certain about any decision as this one.

It was something I’d been planning for a long time: I’d come across the concept initially while reading a book on ethics, Strangers Drowning by Larissa MacFurquhar, in my last year at university. As soon as I’d read the words on the page, I knew this was something I had to do. I read hurriedly on, scared I’d come across some factor that might prevent me from donating but everything more I learned about donating made me more certain it was right.

The strong sense of purpose I had made a real difference.

Researching extensively

Originally I had planned to think about this for one year, which eventually morphed into three due to the pandemic. I didn’t speak with anyone I knew about donating but I researched the topic extensively, including accounts of people suffering from kidney failure. It’s a brutal situation and I felt determined to go ahead.

After approaching the situation, I had to go through about a year of medical tests. Usually a task of this type, with numerous morning appointments and a need to chase hospital staff to keep the process going, would have been daunting. The strong sense of purpose I had made a real difference though and tasks I would have struggled with usually felt simple.

By the time I was approved to donate, I had informed my close family: they were surprised when they first heard my plans but I was well-prepared and was able to explain my reasoning clearly. Once I was on the register, a match came up instantly and my surgery date was fixed. I took six weeks off work, told my extended family and went ahead.

Thanks to my donation, a total of five people received kidney transplants.

Being part of a chain

Giving was remarkably easy: I was put to sleep and when I woke up it was done! I spent four days in hospital and then about a month living like an old man and taking constant naps. I never had a happier Christmas, though I spent much of it dozing. By the time I returned to work it would often feel like it was all a dream, then I’d reach for the scars on my stomach and remember it was real.

All I know about my donee is that she was a woman, in her 40s to 50s, and that the operation was successful. She was part of a chain: a loved one of hers who had been unable to donate to her agreed to donate onto another person if she received a kidney. The chain was continued such that thanks to my donation, a total of five people received kidney transplants. One, I learned, was an eleven-year-old girl who had been on dialysis: I had never imagined I could help someone like that, but I’m glad I did.

A strength of being autistic is being able to follow your own path and act on your own reasoning.

The worst part about donating a kidney – you can only do it once.

Day to day, living with one kidney has changed nothing in my life. In the long-term, it shouldn’t have much impact on my health: the average kidney donor actually lives longer than the average non-donor. I feel I paid an absurdly small price given how much I was able to help others. This seems to be not an uncommon experience: I met another altruistic donor who gave at 65 and who said it has changed very little in his life over the last decade.

The worst part about donating a kidney is you can only do it once.

  • In the UK, there are 68,000 people at any given time who are in kidney failure, including 1,000 children.
  • Only 20% of these people will be able to get the transplant they need to survive.
  • Altruistic kidney donations, despite the outsized impact they can make through starting chains, are still very rare, having reached 100 a year in the UK recently.

The fact that going in, I didn’t know any others who had donated a kidney wasn’t an obstacle to me as the benefits so clearly outweighed the costs. A strength of being autistic is being able to follow your own path and act on your own reasoning, without being concerned about whether something is a norm in wider society.

I did come out of the process, however, feeling there is a lack of awareness about the possibility of donation, about how great the benefits are and about how surprisingly easy it is. I’m keen to change this. I feel deeply grateful to all the medical professionals who enabled me to donate, as well as to my fellow donors in my chain. Donating is the best thing I’ve ever done; even so, I have more to do and more to give.

Useful links:

Guy in a hospital bed following his kidney donation along with an image representing the chain.

Guy

This article was written by a past coaching client of WayMakers whom we are proud to have as a guest contributor to our site.

Love, love the bright star you are

Love, love the bright star you are

by | Sep 25, 2023 | Autistic, Neurodivergent

Poem and Artwork by Diane Melanie.

 @dianemelanie_

I am sure life is more wonderful and precarious than we should ever know.

In fact, it may be a mistake to consider anything ordinary.

Amazing is all there is.

Think about it.

painting of a child with a rainbow of different colours around them

There has never been a day like this day,

and there will never be another you.

Child of Earth, you are a miracle,

with your very own starsong for guidance and protection…


listen   
listen

Understand that you belong – as everything belongs – to the wondrous Web of all Creation

You walk in myth and legend,

the hero of your own story,

instinctively directing yourself toward a better day.

drawing of a single daisy with soft pink and greens in the background

You live in beauty, not because you own beautiful things,

but because you appreciate that the world is one of abundant beauty,

– including beauty you will never see –

and knowing you are blessed.

Please don’t spend any of your precious time trying to be flawless.

Fighting yourself only adds to the sum of conflict in the world.

drawing of a field mouse with berries in pastel colours

Nothing will ever be enough,

if you do not accept yourself in this moment as complete.

It is in your wholeness – in your perfect imperfection – that you are beautiful.

And try not to agonise over purpose or achievement.

Your most significant act could be one you never even recognise –

the fleeting smile to a passing stranger that, unknowingly, made all the difference…

pastel drawing of a bumblebee hovering over a foxglove purple flower

You do not live without effect in the world.

‘I don’t know…’ is just one of many ways to stop yourself before you’ve even tried.

It’s also the best place to start.

Only take your first step and keep walking.

As you venture, trust that life will always meet you half way.

There may be doors you approach, and even knock on – perhaps many times – before you are ready to go through them.

Sometimes you have to do the difficult thing because it matters,

and because it is no one else’s responsibility.

pencil drawing of an owl's face

In challenging times, seek sanctuary in the safe harbour of your truth.

Life is much too precious to be doing something you neither love nor believe in.

As unnerving as it can be, change renews the world.

And the timing is always right. Don’t doubt it.

pastel drawing riverbank

A river knows its path after all.

Be assured, you are never lost

Though at times you may feel forsaken or without hope,

even then, forces are at work to relieve you.

Have faith. Hold on.

Everything is perfectly in order – even the chaos.

Problems only have the power you give them to spoil a day.

Give yourself that power instead – the power to thrive.

Wherever plans may take you, there is really only one journey;

only you to leave and return to.

You are home, dear one. In yourself.

The dream, the destination already exists within you.

Was there from the very beginning.

pastel drawing of a horse and foal hugging

Promise to do one thing, every day, that your future self will thank you for.

Go as far as you can imagine, beyond all chains,

knowing that your truest dream is always the universe’s will for you.

Graciously accept the loving gifts of others along the way,

just as your lungs accept, without question, your next breath of air

You are loved immeasurably.

Let love give you wings and awaken you to so much of what you already have

And love in return –

with your whole life not just your heart

pastel colour drawing of a child's face with swirls of colours around it

Be generous with your light –

it helps others to shine

You are your own radiant gift to the world

Love, love the bright star you are

X

Diane Melanie

This article was written by a past Neurodiversity Profile Mapping client of WayMakers whom we are proud to have as a guest contributor to our site.

Are you questioning your gender?

Are you questioning your gender?

by | Jun 20, 2023 | Autistic, Gender, Inclusive, Transgender

Are you questioning your gender? Or do you know a trans person?

Well, recent studies have shown autism and transness* conflate more often than in neurotypicals.

Autism and transness are linked – you’re not an anomaly or anything! Yippee!!

If you know any autistic people who aren’t trans, maybe ask them if they’ve ever questioned their gender, or vice versa.

[* transness: the fact of being transgender; having a gender that does not match the body you were born with].

Autism and transness are linked – you’re not an anomaly!

Why the link?

The most common reason people think autism and transness converge often, is that it’s thought people hyper-fixate on figuring out their gender. Autistic people are also more likely to be gender non-conforming, so that may play a part.

Perhaps the reason is genetics, perhaps it’s related to differences in perceptions of gender, or maybe it’s connected to how autistic people interpret internal sensory signals that then inform how we feel in our bodies, and about ourselves.

People are now coming out and saying, “Yes, this is me!”

What do the statistics say?

Did you know that:

  1. Trans people are up to 6 times more likely to be autistic.
  2. Autistic people are more likely to be gender diverse.

In statistics generally, when a group of people are finally given access to information about or just generally allowed to exist somewhat peacefully, there will be a spike in numbers, as these people are now coming out and saying, “Yes, this is me!”.

People who haven’t before said they are this thing, are now being recognised, in which case, the spike will eventually level out to a steady level.

More people will be counted in a statistic if they feel they can finally and safely identify as trans without backlash.

In Spectrum News we see the “Largest study to date confirms overlap between autism and gender diversity“, showing that an autism identified are more common among gender-diverse people.

Statistics showing autism diagnosis by gender identity

gender expression and gender identity are different things!

Your unique brand of trans

A lot of the autistic people I know are also some brand of trans, or have questioned their gender at some point. There may be more people like you around than you think. 😀

Talking about ‘brands’ of gender, a useful thing to remember is that gender expression and gender identity are different things!

How you dress and how you identify gender-wise are two completely different things: you wouldn’t call a cis-girl tomboy a guy just because she’s wearing – I don’t know, a lumberjack shirt.

It’s ok if you’re trans and your gender identity and gender expression aren’t the same, that just makes you super-comfortable in yourself!

These identities have existed for centuries, probably longer

History

If you are a person that draws a line at some identities, maybe you've said something like,

“You’re ‘non-binary’? You can’t be in-between! Pick one!” 

or

“‘Gender fluid’? Ha, they’re taking this too far now!”

... then take a look at history. These identities have existed for centuries, probably longer.

Like in Hawaii, the Māhƫs are third gender people with additional spiritual and social roles.

And in Norse mythology, Loki is shown to be gender-fluid.

A Polynesian third gender, RaeRae, is a man who behaves as and considers himself to be a woman.

History says trans rights, so maybe you should too. 😀

I don’t believe this needs to be said but: if you are any brand of non-binary gender that is fine. If we were all either a ‘1’ or a ‘2’, the world would be so boring! And even if only two genders are recognised in most countries, psychology and medicine and such support non-binary, gender-fluid and other identities as valid.

Resources:

    Pronouns

    If you are having a hard time figuring out about gender pronouns Jake Edwards, a non binary youtuber, talks about "Gender Pronouns, Get Them Right!"

    YouTubers

    Finding trans YouTubers and such are helpful too. I watch Jammidodger and Noahfinnce, they have good videos on transition stuff.

    I’ve heard Ash Hardell is also good – just have a look around, find the YouTuber that makes content you like.

    NB Keep in mind that the three I’ve mentioned are trans masc/trans men; I’m not overly familiar with any trans women YouTubers unfortunately.

    Supporting a trans person

    The Trevor project is good if you’re struggling to support a trans person in your life and feel out of our depth

    You might also want to look at Supporting the Transgender People in Your Life: A Guide to Being a Good Ally

    Other useful links

    Proud2Be is a grassroots user-led social enterprise that exists to support and enable LGBTQ+ people in Devon (and beyond).

    The Proud Trust is an LGBT+ organisation that supports LGBT+ young people. They have a good page on their website for exploring gender identity.

    Intercom Trust are based in Exeter and are an LGBT+ led charity improving wellbeing and inclusion across the region. They also have a great resources page.

    Oreo- He/him

    This article was written by a past coaching client of WayMakers whom we are proud to have as a guest contributor to our site.

    Life at uni – you might just be surprised!

    Life at uni – you might just be surprised!

    by | Dec 12, 2022 | Autistic, Communication, Transitions

    Moving away from home to start university can be a daunting prospect for anyone. How refreshing to find that it has not been the monumental challenge I expected it to be. 

    It has now been over two months since I started university and I am pleased to say I am absolutely loving it! My first term is nearly complete and already I have made some lovely friends and am making good progress with my course.

    Most helpful of all is that I am living in a

    ‘designated quiet block’

    Living on campus

    I am very lucky to be living on campus in the university accommodation and this has worked out brilliantly. My lectures and seminars are a ten-minute walk away, so I can come home in between classes to rest and enjoy some quiet. I am also only a five-minute walk from the university shop, which is very helpful if I need to buy anything and don’t have enough social energy to walk into the city.

    Most helpful of all is that I am living in a ‘designated quiet block’. This means that everyone who lives in my building has requested a quiet accommodation which doesn’t involve alcohol or partying. This has been amazing as it means I can work and sleep undisturbed, and my flat mates are all very similar to me in their appreciation of a calm living space.

    It could be a good idea to:

    1. ask about quiet accomodation when you visit a university on an Open Day if you feel this might suit you.

    2. understand more about the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA), which is a grant to help with any extra costs.

    3. Read around. I found Disability at University: guidance and a glossary of terms really useful.

    The idea of living in a flat with five other strangers was initially extremely anxiety-provoking

    Living with five strangers

    The idea of living in a flat with five other strangers was initially extremely anxiety-provoking. Although the university had supported me by giving me a room with an en-suite. I would still have to share a kitchen and living space with people I had never met before.  Surprisingly, my flat is the most enjoyable part of being at university so far: my flatmates are some of the kindest and most considerate people I have ever known and it’s reassuring that we all experience very similar stresses. For example, we all have quite low social batteries and so spend a lot of time in our rooms rather than out, and everyone is very tidy and respectful of each other’s space and belongings.

    It has also been wonderful getting to know people from different cultural backgrounds and countries and bonding over interests and hobbies. All these things have been an enormous help in transitioning from my family home to university halls.

    The biggest challenge so far for me has been managing energy levels

    Establishing new routines

    Some things that helped me adjust to the change in lifestyle included decorating my room with familiar pictures and books early on in the moving in process and establishing my new routines to include my academic work as well as free time, time for meals and walks to stay healthy. Also, keeping in touch with the accessibility team throughout, who offer a social group every week for students with similar struggles was comforting as it established a go-to support network for whenever things got overwhelming.

    Planning breaks and rest

    The biggest challenge so far for me has been managing energy levels throughout the week. Learning which days I need to plan a break and a rest is important for me because I am managing many different scenarios throughout the week. Constantly meeting new people can be exciting but also exhausting, walking into a city centre can present intense sensory overwhelm, and engaging in society activities and demanding academic work can feel like a lot to balance.

    Having a quiet bedroom to go back to as well as regular visits back to North Devon means I have breaks to manage it all without feeling like I’m missing out on anything.

    the best thing is being able to study my interests in intense detail.

    Overall, the best thing is being able to study my interests in intense detail. It is a privilege learning from some of the best academics in my subject, diving deep into my interests, and being surrounded by fellow students who share a deep appreciation for our course.

    I cannot wait for next term and would encourage anyone who is thinking of going on to university to start exploring your options and available support – you might just be surprised!

    Some key tips and takeaways that might be helpful:

    • take a break, take a step back and scan your body. 
    • notice your social battery – do you need some time out?
    • think about types of social interactions e.g. size of groups, duration etc.
    • anticipate the upcoming day and build in some downtime to recharge.
    • think and ask about accomodation e.g would a quiet block suit? This student’s blog post might reassure you: https://www.bristol.ac.uk/blackwell/news/2020/autism-at-university–being-an-autistic-student.html 
    • take time to do something you enjoy, perhaps your special interest.
    • from my last blog, don’t forget to recognise your strengths!
    • most importantly, give yourself a little time, grace and self-compassion.

    I hope this was helpful.

    Kit

    This article was written by a past coaching client of WayMakers whom we are proud to have as a guest contributor to our site.