Unmasking the Truth: Could You Be Neurodivergent?

Exploring the Hidden Struggles and Strengths of Women Who Slip Through the Cracks

In January 2024, I was diagnosed with ADHD, adding to the diagnoses of dyslexia and dysgraphia I received as a child. Growing up, I often struggled—not necessarily to fit in but to do things that others seemed to find effortless. Everyday tasks like reading, writing, or even keeping up with conversations presented challenges.

For me, understanding the world is visual. My brain processes letters and words as pictures. This helps me in some ways but creates significant hurdles, too. For example, I often lose focus if I’m trying to form mental images while listening to someone speak—a common difficulty for individuals with ADHD. My memory also falters, particularly when trying to recall the order of letters in a word or navigate the complex rules of the English language. Combined with challenges in hand-eye coordination and vision, even basic tasks can become frustrating.