Neurodivergent or Just Human? ADHD, Autism & the Internet Self-Diagnosis Boom - Ep357Neurodivergent or Just Human? ADHD, Autism & the Internet Self-Diagnosis Boom - Ep357
Through a Therapist's Eyes Podcast
Therapists discuss ADHD, autism and the idea of being “neurodivergent”, questioning how much is genuine diagnosis and how much is simply being human. They look at the influence of social media, the limits of self-diagnosis and the value of seeking real understanding rather than living by online labels.
1:11:02•19 May 2026
Neurodivergent or Just Human? Therapists Talk ADHD, Autism and Online Self-Diagnosis
Episode Overview
- Neurodivergent is a broad cultural term, not a clinical diagnosis, and many very human experiences can look similar to ADHD or autism.
- Clinicians look for chronic patterns and impact on daily functioning before giving a diagnosis, rather than relying on online checklists.
- Labels can feel validating and open doors to support, but they should help you understand yourself, not completely define who you are.
- Stress, trauma, grief, hormonal changes and lifestyle pressure can all mimic or amplify symptoms people often associate with neurodivergence.
- Internet mental health content can educate and reduce stigma, but self-diagnosis from social media alone risks confusion and missed proper help.
““Normal really in and of itself is just a setting on the dryer… at the core of who you are, you're a person, and you deserve to be loved and treated well.””
How do people find strength in their journey to sobriety, especially when the internet is shouting diagnoses at them? This conversation on *Through a Therapist’s Eyes* takes that messy mix of ADHD, autism, TikTok trends and self-diagnosis and breaks it down in plain, honest language. Host and therapist Chris Gazdik is joined by fellow clinicians Victoria Pendergrass, John Pope and Casey Morgan, who all share decades of experience across children, adults and older people.
They talk about the surge in people calling themselves “neurodivergent” online and ask a simple but tricky question: are these real conditions, or very human reactions to stress, trauma, burnout and modern life? You’ll hear them contrast everyday struggles – brain fog, grief, being easily distracted, feeling socially awkward – with what actually counts as ADHD or autism in a clinical sense.
Casey points out that “everything is on a spectrum”, and explains how she looks for chronic patterns and impact on daily life rather than just ticking a few boxes on an online quiz. The group are clear that labels can be both comforting and risky. Being “neuro-spicy”, as Victoria jokes, can help people feel less alone and access support, but it shouldn’t swallow up your whole identity.
As John puts it, difference can be an asset, but self-diagnosing from social media alone can shut down chances for proper assessment and support. For anyone in alcohol or addiction recovery who is wondering if ADHD, autism or “neurodivergence” might be part of their story, this episode offers grounded, non-judgemental reassurance: you’re allowed to be curious, to ask questions, and to seek real help rather than letting an algorithm decide who you are.
Could it be time to swap internet labels for genuine understanding of yourself?
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