As an ADHD coach, I often tell people the labels are not important, our goal is to find coping strategies for a better, more balanced life.
Speaking with Megan Jones from CBIRT ( CBIRT The Center for Brain Injury and Training) this week, we asked the question, how similar are the characteristics of Brain injury, ADHD and autism? The answer was there are lots of crossovers of cognitive dissonance, memory, daily functions, reactions, overreactions, and much more. The attached article from (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9681696)
This article outlines the symptoms of brain injury as quoted :
“Cognitive, Behavioral, or Mental Symptoms
Awareness loss lasts from a few seconds to a few minutes. There may not always be a loss of consciousness, but rather a feeling of lightheadedness, bewilderment, or disorientation. Issues with memory or concentration, including memory loss, lack of focus, etc. Additionally, people with traumatic brain damage may have mood changes and mood-swinging problems. Patients with traumatic brain injury can also experience emotions of depression, anxiety, or trouble sleeping as they have trouble sleeping soundly because of trauma or stress. Patients with TBI may experience long stretches of sleep than usual”
Gosh, sounds similar to people with ADHD, doesn’t it?
While there are differences, it seems that autism, ADHD, TBI, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues have very similar and overlapping presentation of challenges.
As I said in the start of this conversation, the labels are made by medical and mental health professionals, the solutions are made in real life with real life experiences. Each individual will need to find their unique path to balance, joy and peace. Let me know and I’d be honored to be your coach, co pilot and witness to your journey.
An article about autism and neurospiciness
braininjury.oregon.gov 833-685-0848 CBIRT The Center for Brain Injury and Training
A comprehensive program in Oregon for brain injury
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9681696
This article outlines the management, identification and treatment of Brain injuries
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