Jackie Kelley On Navigating Partnership As An ND Couple
TIMELINE & LINKS/RESOURCES
00:20 Introducing Jackie Kelly
01:41 Jackie's ADHD Journey
03:46 Motherhood and Neurodivergence
13:43 Navigating Marriage with ADHD
25:21 A Neuropositive Future
27:43 Connect with Jackie Kelly
You can find Jackie on Instagram at @stayathomejackie
Jackie Kelley on Navigating Partnership As A Neurodiverse Couple
Introduction
In this episode, host Phyllis Brasenell is joined by Jackie Kelly, a vibrant storyteller, illustrator, and mother, known for her empowering content on Instagram. Jackie shares her ADHD journey and the lessons she's learned in embracing individuality and diversity.
Jackie's Journey with ADHD
Jackie's journey with ADHD began later in life, having initially been diagnosed with generalized anxiety in middle school. As she navigated through college, Jackie experienced severe panic attacks, largely due to unrecognized sensory issues. It was only after becoming a mother and enduring postpartum depression during the pandemic that Jackie sought a reassessment and was formally diagnosed with ADHD. This diagnosis validated her experiences and empowered her to work with her neurodivergence, rather than against it.
Navigating Parenthood and Neurodivergence
Jackie candidly discusses how becoming a mother amplified her challenges, stripping away coping mechanisms she had developed over years. However, as her children grew older, she reclaimed tools to manage her sensory overload and navigate motherhood more effectively. Jackie emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and communication in raising her children, ensuring they understand their own emotions and boundaries.
Revolutionizing Family Dynamics
Living with ADHD has profoundly impacted Jackie's marriage. She describes learning to respect and facilitate her husband's needs, even when they differ from her own. Understanding and valuing each other's unique perspectives became key to their relationship, fostering a supportive and respectful family environment. Jackie touches on the importance of self-advocacy and self-awareness in neurodivergent partnerships, highlighting the balance between self-care and mutual support.
Creating Inclusive Environments
Jackie shares her son's experience in a gifted classroom, tailored to cater to neurodivergent students. The classroom's dynamic environment, equipped with spinny stools, stim bins, and flexible learning approaches, exemplifies how education can adapt to diverse learning needs. This supportive setting reinforces Jackie's belief in creating environments that allow neurodivergent individuals to thrive.
The Importance of Self-Advocacy
Jackie discusses the importance of self-advocacy—a crucial skill she developed over time. By recognizing and respecting her own limitations, she adopted a proactive approach to managing her environment and relationships. This self-awareness transformed her interactions, allowing Jackie to communicate her needs effectively and foster mutual respect.
Looking Ahead: A Neuropositive Future
Envisioning a neuropositive future, Jackie hopes for a world where individuals can express their authentic selves without fear of judgment. She advocates for accepting people as they are, without needing explanations for individual differences. For Jackie, the key to a better world lies in embracing kindness and understanding, creating spaces where everyone can belong.
Conclusion
Jackie Kelly's story is an inspiring testament to the power of embracing neurodivergence. Through self-awareness, advocacy, and acceptance, she has crafted a life that honors her individuality and empowers those around her.
Follow her journey on Instagram at @stayathomejackie, where she continues to share her unique insights on neurodiversity, family, and life. Let's all strive for a future where being "weird" is celebrated, and belonging is universal.