Hello! I’m Mary. I was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 40 and Autism at 42.

Over the last few years I’ve spent a lot of time learning more about who I am and how my brain works. As a result I am now living my life in a way that feels more comfortable and less overwhelming.

Before my diagnosis, I thought I was lazy and useless. I wondered how everyone else managed to keep up with work and chores and shopping and socialising. How did they have the time? The energy? I felt like a useless adult and terrible wife. I felt like I was drowning in my adult responsibilities.

Now, I understand why it was hard. My mind doesn’t work like everyone else’s. I have to spend so much more energy on just existing.

I struggle with planning, sequencing tasks, prioritisation, and working memory. It may not sound like much, but every single thing I do every day uses those skills.