The Hidden Cost Of Masking Autism For Years

Dr. Samantha Hiew is an ADHD and Autism expert with a PhD in Medical Sciences and lived experience of being AuDHD. In this episode, we explore the hidden cost of masking Autism, the identity crisis that can follow a late diagnosis, why making friends can feel so difficult, and how to find your true self after years of pretending to be someone you're not. If you've ever felt different, misunderstood, or like you don't know who you really are, this conversation is for you. Chapters: 00:00 Trailer 01:28 Why Autism Often Goes Unnoticed
 03:22 My Emotional Reaction To An Autism Diagnosis
 04:59 The Identity Crisis Nobody Talks About
 07:18 Processing A Late Autism Diagnosis 
11:39 Why Traits Can Feel Stronger After Diagnosis
 12:59 The Hidden Cost Of Masking AuDHD
 16:40 How To Find Yourself Again
 20:32 Tiimo Advert
 23:12 Why Making Friends Is So Difficult
 25:39 Finding Love As An AuDHDer
 30:57 The Stages Of AuDHD Acceptance 35:50 Audience questions Visit Sam’s website 👉 https://samanthahiew.com Find Sam on Instagram 👉 https://www.instagram.com/samanthahiewphd/ Get 30% off an annual Tiimo subscription 👉 https://www.tiimoapp.com/offers/adhdchatter Buy Alex's book entitled 'Now It All Makes Sense' 👉 https://www.amazon.co.uk/Now-All-Makes-Sense-Diagnosis/dp/1399817817 Order Alex’s latest book about Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria 👉 https://linktr.ee/adhdchatter?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=9ffd8709-06df-444c-9936-c136fbd14d6e Producer: Timon Woodward Recorded by: Hamlin Studios Trailer editor: Ryan Faber DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices