Episode 46: Most Neurodivergent People Have a Story of Collapse Before Success

Neurodivergent Rebel, Lyric Rivera, joins me to discuss the rite-of-passage crises that compel us to confront burnout, identity, capitalism, and the quiet self-abandonment we learned to survive with.

Curious What’s Inside?

• The “Rite of Passage” Crisis: Why do so many neurodivergent individuals hit collapse?

• “Queer-Adjacent Without The Language”: Growing up in the Texas Bible Belt, feeling out of place without the words to articulate a non-binary identity.

  
  

• Capitalism's Lie: How destroying your body, your boundaries, and even the planet gets framed as “success” and why we're refusing that narrative.

  
  

• Protecting Your Peace: Unlearning performative identity, setting boundaries, and choosing emotional safety over productivity theater.

  
  

• Lavender Gelato & Feeling at Home: A delightful discussion about cozy things.

  
  

The Journey of Collapse and Healing

Many neurodivergent individuals experience an identity collapse before they can begin healing. This journey is often fraught with challenges. Understanding this process is essential for moving forward.

Why Do We Experience Collapse?

The collapse often stems from societal pressures and internalized beliefs. We may feel the weight of expectations that don’t align with our true selves. This can lead to burnout and a crisis of identity.

Discovering Autism and Its Impact

When we discover our neurodivergent identities, it opens doors to questioning not just our gender but also capitalism and self-abandonment. This self-discovery can be liberating but also overwhelming.

The Intersection of Racism and Mental Health

Racism and colonial thinking can shape our experiences in parenting, education, and mental health systems. These influences often complicate our journeys, making it vital to address them.

Key Questions Answered in the Audio

1. Why do so many neurodivergent people experience an identity collapse before healing can begin?

2. How does discovering autism open the door to questioning gender, capitalism, and self-abandonment?

3. What happens when racism, colonial thinking, and “just a difference of opinion” shape parenting, education, and mental health systems?

   
   

Resources Mentioned

Lyric Rivera — Neurodivergent Rebel

Autism Identity in Me — Lyric’s latest book

Connect With Us!

The Neurodivergent Report

@ndreportpod on your social platform of choice!

Embracing Our Stories

We all have stories that shape who we are. Embracing these narratives can help us find community and understanding. Remember, you are not alone in this journey.

Finding Your Voice

Finding your voice is crucial. It’s about expressing your truth and standing firm in your identity. This process can be daunting, but it’s also empowering.

Creating Safe Spaces

Creating safe spaces for ourselves and others is essential. We need environments where we can be authentic without fear of judgment.

The Power of Connection

Connection is powerful. Sharing our experiences can foster understanding and reduce stigma. Let’s build a supportive platform for shared experiences and expert insights.

Lavender Gelato and Cozy Moments

Let’s not forget the little joys, like lavender gelato. These cozy moments remind us to savor life, even amidst challenges. They provide comfort and a sense of belonging.

Moving Forward Together

As we navigate our journeys, let’s move forward together. By supporting one another, we can create a brighter future. Remember, your story matters.

Let’s embrace our identities and celebrate our journeys. You are worthy of love, understanding, and success on your terms.