Embracing Neurodiversity: Learning to live with it

Firstly, I would like to thank a couple of people. Firstly, and maybe strangely, I want to thank Cherie Clonan from The Digital Picnic , we have never met however, I have followed your business since https://www.yourorganisedlife.com.au/ told me to check you out. You talk about neurodiversity with such freedom and strength, I have been quite trepiduous about writing this, you have inspired this piece. Secondly, two people Alex Carrasco for pointing out I should go and get checked out, and Kate Locastro which I am sure you know why.

In the realm of professional development and personal growth, the concept of neurodiversity has gained significant traction in recent years. Neurodiversity encompasses the natural variations in human brain function and acknowledges that each individual possesses unique cognitive strengths and challenges. This concept challenges traditional perceptions of disability and encourages a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

As I recently embarked on a new project at Eastern Health, I was presented with an onboarding document that inquired about my identification with a disability. At first, I instinctively answered "no," as I had always perceived myself as fully able-bodied. However, upon further reflection, I realised that my recent diagnosis of ADHD falls under the umbrella of neurodiversity.

Admittedly, I was a little nervous about selecting the disability check box, What if it is held against me? What will it mean to my project? Will people treat me differently?

I have a quasi-advisory board of people I call when I have bigger questions to contemplate, Ian Watson, Simon Baker , Matthew Turner , Megan Gladstone , Iain Wilson , Steve Bickford whether you know it or not, you are some of the members (god I need some diversity on my board, happy to take applications). This question needed experience, so I checked in with my Dad, Peter Gladstone. He has openly suffered from mental illness for over 30 years, and I figured would have some insight. When I asked, if should I tick that I have a disability with my recent ADHD diagnosis, he answered simply, "Absolutely, how will people learn more about us, if we don't talk about it more". I am regularly blown away by how amazing my old man is, this was no exception.

Learning to embrace my neurodiversity is going to be a challenge, unlearning a lot of learned habits I have used to manage it, communicating a lot with my family to see that the changes are going to be better, and talking about it openly.

This is my privilege, I am a somewhat middle age white male, I get it, people don't feel comfortable, are afraid, or don't want to share it, please don't feel pressured but I encourage you to join me in exploring the nuances of neurodiversity and recognising the inherent strengths and contributions of individuals with varying cognitive abilities. Finally, the pitch, please check out Datum Australia , this is my new business, I'm trying to make life easier for Health Services to make the right decisions quickly with the right data. I want to help the people who help patients. Thanks team.