5 Comments
User's avatar
Becky Handley (she/they)'s avatar

I stopped drinking nearly 22 months ago and it brought to me the knowledge of how I used alcohol to be a “better” version of myself which I now understand meant the more neurotypical acting version.

I have stopped pushing myself to do that and begun accepting who I truly am - I am quiet, I don’t like parties or nights out, I love nights in. I get excited when Bake Off or Gladiators or Taskmaster starts. A good weekend for me is the only plan being watching a wrestling PPV on a Saturday night.

I still feel that grip of shame when someone asks “What did you do at the weekend?” Because I still feel like I should have had some grand plans. But, I’m working on it.

Expand full comment
Byron Vincent's avatar

Hey Chelsey, long time no see. I hope you're grand. Really enjoying the blog, it's all very relatable. I received my AuDHD diagnosis a few years ago now. Lots of things fell into place. Especially regarding my relationship with alcohol. Anyway, these days I have side hustle running neuro-inclusive club events. They aren't 100% sober but they aren't messy either and alcohol certainly isn't centered. We have our first ever Bristol event tomorrow night at the Beacon. Silent Disco, table-top gaming, Calm Space etc. Not sure if it would be your bag but if you like the sound of it give me a nudge and I'll pass on a code for free tickets. Cheers. Byron

Expand full comment
Barrie's avatar

Hi Chel

I personally love to drive. I enjoy driving into the country and enjoying the freedom that brings. Comes from being a car guy, I suppose!

Expand full comment
Sophie Collard's avatar

Love, love, love. This also arrived at just the right time! “I don’t waste so much energy pretending I’m not struggling.” #goals

Expand full comment
Rosalie's avatar

So encouraging, thank you. I've experienced a definite loss of skills since my diagnoses of Autism and ADHD and I genuinely thought it was permanent. I lost my career and, in a more convoluted way, my home and my relationship. I became so disillusioned and hopeless that I got very close to ending my life. Luckily I have had lots of support from friends and family (and even from professionals which was new to me) and this, along with some medication changes, has kept me going. I now believe there is a future in which I can regain my independence and start a new, kinder life which is more suited to my needs. Seeing you go through it all a couple of years ahead of me has been inspiring. Lots of love x

Expand full comment