Why Habit Hacks don't work! ADHD / Autism Version

Summary

In this video, Amanda discusses her experiences with autism, ADHD, and the challenges of executive functioning and habit formation. She emphasizes that autism is recognized as a disability, highlighting the stigma around this label and the harmful nature of functioning labels. Amanda shares her personal journey of masking her traits and the struggle of completing daily tasks, such as brushing teeth and doing laundry, which often require meticulous attention to micro-tasks. She encourages viewers to break down tasks and seek support, aiming to foster understanding and compassion for those with invisible disabilities.

Takeaways

• 😀 Amanda identifies as autistic and ADHD, discussing her experiences with neurodivergencies on her channel.
• 🤔 Autism is recognized as a disability in many countries, and it's important to shift the narrative around disability from negative to neutral.
• 🚫 The use of functioning labels (high functioning, low functioning) is harmful and misleading; instead, support levels should be discussed.
• 🧠 Executive functioning is a significant challenge for autistic and ADHD individuals, affecting daily tasks and habits.
• 🔄 Habits do not form the same way for autistic and ADHD brains as they do for neurotypical individuals; it often requires conscious effort and external cues.
• 🧘‍♀️ Amanda practiced yoga daily for 46 months but did not form a habit, highlighting the difference in experiences between neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals.
• 📝 Completing tasks like laundry involves numerous micro-tasks that can be overwhelming for neurodivergent people.
• 🤝 Support from family and friends is crucial in breaking down tasks into manageable steps for autistic individuals.
• 🏠 Autistic individuals may struggle with transitioning between tasks and require assistance in organizing their thoughts and actions.
• 💡 Encouraging a breakdown of larger tasks into smaller, actionable steps can improve cooperation and reduce overwhelm for autistic individuals.

Q & A

What are some of the neurodivergencies Amanda identifies with?

Amanda identifies as autistic and has ADHD, among other neurodivergencies.

Why does Amanda believe autism should be classified as a disability?

Amanda argues that autism is classified as a disability in the U.S. and many other countries, and she believes this is important for addressing internalized ableism and recognizing autism as a variation of the human experience.

What is Amanda's stance on functioning labels related to autism?

Amanda believes that functioning labels, such as 'high functioning' or 'low functioning,' are harmful as they diminish the lived experiences of autistic individuals and misrepresent their needs.

How does Amanda describe her experience with high masking?

Amanda explains that she masked her autistic traits for 42 years, which led to her autism going undetected until later in life. High masking often allows individuals to appear neurotypical but can make it harder for them to get the support they need.

What role does executive functioning play in the lives of autistic individuals, according to Amanda?

Executive functioning difficulties are part of the diagnostic criteria for autism. Amanda highlights that autistic individuals often struggle with performing daily tasks that neurotypical people can do without much thought.

Why does Amanda think that forming habits is different for neurodivergent individuals compared to neurotypical individuals?

Amanda states that for neurotypical individuals, habits form more easily and become automatic, while for neurodivergent individuals, tasks often require conscious effort and are not as easily transformed into habits.

What does Amanda mean by 'micro tasks'?

Micro tasks refer to the smaller, individual steps required to complete a larger task. For example, doing laundry involves multiple micro tasks that can overwhelm someone with executive functioning challenges.

How does Amanda suggest supporting an autistic person with completing tasks?

Amanda recommends breaking down tasks into smaller steps and providing support where needed, such as offering help with specific micro tasks that may be overwhelming.

What experience does Amanda share regarding her daily yoga practice?

Amanda practiced yoga daily for 46 months, but despite this commitment, she did not find it became a habit in the neurotypical sense, as she still had to consciously think about each step of the practice.

What message does Amanda convey to those with autistic individuals in their lives?

Amanda emphasizes the importance of understanding the complexity of tasks for autistic individuals and encourages others to be patient and supportive by breaking down tasks and recognizing the internal struggles they face.