In this episode of Autistic FM, we dive into the sensory world of Jay, an insightful woman from Michigan who discovered her neurodivergent identity through her daughter's autism diagnosis. Jay shares her transformative journey from misdiagnosed mental health struggles to the clarity brought by acknowledging her autism. This realization has shaped her understanding of sensory experiences and offered her a sense of acceptance.

Throughout the conversation, Jay opens up about the interplay of touch and interoception in her daily life. She highlights the challenges posed by sensory sensitivities and the emotional release that comes from being truly seen and understood. Jay's experiences illuminate the importance of recognizing and regulating inner bodily cues, marking a vital step in her self-discovery journey.

We explore Jay's personal stories, discussing her innovative coping strategies and the profound need for societal understanding and acceptance. Her account provides an enlightening view on how neurodivergent individuals navigate a world that often seems overwhelming due to unrecognized sensory and emotional signals.

Topics Covered in Episode 17

• Interoception: Understanding the body's internal cues and how missing them impacts daily life.

• Neurodivergent Identity: Jay's journey of self-discovery following her daughter's autism diagnosis.

• Sensory Sensitivities: How environmental stimuli affect Jay and her coping mechanisms.

• Emotional Release: The profound relief Jay felt upon being truly understood.

• Navigating Relationships: Identifying and expressing sensory and emotional needs in connections with others.

• Coping Strategies: Techniques Jay uses to manage her sensory experiences and maintain equilibrium.

About Jay

Jay is a passionate advocate for understanding neurodivergence, utilizing her personal experiences to foster greater awareness and empathy. Living in Michigan, she continues to explore the dynamics of being neurodivergent, aiming to create a supportive environment for herself and others on similar journeys.

Content Warnings

This episode contains discussions about sensory overwhelm and emotional vulnerability. We also briefly mention an abusive relationship Jay was in. Please ensure self-care while listening.