OCD is largely thought of as an aversion to germs and excessive hand washing, but it’s far more complicated than that. Obsessive thoughts can be around almost anything, and the compulsive behaviour that accompanies it can be debilitating for the individual and their whānau.  Up to 80 000 New Zealanders live with OCD but less than 10% have sought treatment.  In this final episode of the series, Sonia talks to 17-year-old Poppy, who gives a brave insight into her OCD. And we hear from some of the many people and groups who are driving change in the neurodiversity space.  Guests:  Poppy Armiger  Helena Armiger  Jock Matthews Rojolie Clinic  Professor David Coghill AADPA  Darrin Bull   Jo Charman Autism NZ  Tanya Blakey Autism NZ  Susan Haldane Mind Over Manner  Rich Rowley Brain Badge    Facebook: Kids Wired Differently  Instagram: nosuchthingasnormalpodcast    Resources OCD:   OCD NZ  Fixate Facebook Group    Other Resources:  ADHD NZ  Autism NZ  Dyslexia NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dyslexia is still thought of a problem with reading and writing but that’s just a small part of the picture; those who are dyslexic experience the world in a completely different way.   This episode looks at some of the lesser-known dyslexic characteristics, the best ways to support dyslexic learners and we look at how ‘shame’ is such a huge issue for those who learn differently.  Documentary: Unlocking Potential  Guests:   Kimberley Crossman  Dr Ruth Gibbons www.ruth-gibbons.com  Vanessa Victor Remarkable Minds  Helen Armiger  Ruby Armiger  Elliot Jones Unlocking Potential See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Neurodivergent people respond to the environment in unique ways. Occasionally, if their nervous systems are overwhelmed, the body responds by going into a meltdown. Sensory overload, communication challenges and sensitivity to demands can all contribute to this temporary loss of control of behaviour. We’re often quick to judge the behaviour we’re seeing, but this is just the tip of the iceberg.  In this episode Sonia talks to a dad who has radically changed his parenting style to support his ADHD/Autistic children.  And we hear from neurodivergent people about what causes a meltdown and what the experience feels like for them.  Guests:   Rob Newlove Parenting Unique Children  Sophie Newlove  Matt Frost  Nick Marsh  Lucy Charles Paediatric OT  Dani  Sharyn Gousmett  Willow Corner See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although we think of ADHD as being a mostly male condition, it is just as prevalent in females. However, the diagnosis rates tell a different story - females are less than half as likely to be identified as having this neurological condition. Women tend to be better at suppressing and internalising their emotions.   But things like Rejection Sensitivity Disorder, intolerance to boredom, poor executive function and time blindness are very real, and they can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.   In this episode, we look at ways we can work with the ADHD brain - rather than against it - by identifying the many strengths of ADHD. And Sonia chats to broadcaster Hayley Holt about her experience as a late-diagnosed ADHDer.   Guests: Dr. Sarah Watson Totally Psyched   Hayley Holt David Coghill AADPA Rich Rowley Brain Badge Alex Campbell   Resources: ADHD NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we continue looking at whether our education system is meeting the needs of neurodivergent children. We ask: What are the supports and accommodations available? Do you need an official diagnosis of dyslexia to qualify for a reader/writer? And why are stand downs and exclusions so common for kids who are autistic or ADHD?  Facebook: Kids Wired Differently  Guests:   Rachel King and Theo  Pippa Biggs Include Me - Specialist Education Services  Tom Little Pukare Cards  Anna Coleman  Helen McDonald See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.