8| Rach - Mum of two boys, Neurodivergent child, ADHD diagnosing/management at primary school. Self reflection into our own neurodiversity, post natal intrusive thoughts, self care, and a side quest into *smutty* cowboy novels

In this episode, we’re joined by Rachel, a nurse and mother of two boys, Harvey and Owen. Rach shares the unexpected journey she took after Harvey’s Grade one teacher raised concerns with Rach and her husband regarding Harvey exhibiting potential ADHD traits. Initially taken aback, Rach took it upon herself to dive deep into ADHD research, eventually pursuing a professional assessment and diagnosis for Harvey six months later. At that time, Harvey had fallen into the bottom 4% of his class, however remained a happy, confident little boy. It wasn’t until his teacher mentioned that children typically start noticing educational challenges around Grade 4, that Rach became determined to support Harvey in reaching his full potential.

Rach generously walks us through the emotional journey of navigating the assessment process, making the decision to try medication, and learning how to better support Harvey as he thrives both academically and personally. This conversation offers a raw and honest look at the challenges and rewards of parenting a neurodivergent child, along with the deep self-reflection that comes with it.

In addition, Clare opens up about her own journey of suspecting she has ADHD, and the ups and downs that have come with this realization.

We also touch on Rach’s mostly positive post partum period, where she now suspects she may have been exhibiting signs of post natal anxiety, due to some intrusive thoughts during this time.

We wrap up our ADHD conversation, taking a delightful and laugh provoking detour into Rach’s newfound self-care routine—*smutty* cowboy romance novels—and Clare and Chloe are absolutely here for it!

This episode is both insightful and full of laughs, with plenty of discussion around self-care and embracing who we are. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

Love,
Patty’s x

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