Flourishing in Lockdown - A Neurodivergent Mother’s Perspective

As a neurodivergent woman and a mother of three, the lockdown period was a time of unexpected personal growth and understanding for me. Initially, the thought of having everyone at home, all the time, was daunting. Yet, as the days unfolded, I discovered a newfound appreciation for the slower pace and the reduced external pressures.

One of the most striking changes was the reduction of sensory overload. Without the need to navigate crowded places, attend in-person meetings, or manage the children’s hectic schedules, I found a sense of calm that I hadn’t experienced in years. The quiet of our home became a sanctuary where I could think more clearly and be more present with my children without the constant sensory barrage that usually leaves me feeling overwhelmed.

Lockdown allowed us to craft our daily routine that worked for everyone’s needs, including my own. The flexibility to design our days meant that I could work during my peak hours of focus and be available for my children when they needed me most. This balance between personal and family time was something I had struggled to achieve before. It also meant I could manage my energy levels more effectively, reducing the burnout I frequently experienced pre-lockdown.

With the world outside on pause, our family connected in ways that busy lives rarely allow. We explored interests together, from baking to science projects, and had deep conversations that would have been rushed in our pre-lockdown life. These moments of connection were not only precious but also crucial for my mental health.

However, it wasn’t without its challenges. Navigating remote schooling while working from home was a juggling act. There were days when my own neurodivergence made managing three different educational needs seem like an impossible task. Yet, these struggles also led to moments of creativity and learning to advocate for both my needs and my children's in new ways.

Lockdown, for me, was a period of immense growth. It taught me the importance of slowing down, embracing our unique family dynamic, and understanding my neurodivergence not as a hindrance but as a different way of experiencing the world. While I know this time was challenging for many, for me, it was a reminder of the strength and resilience that comes from facing those challenges head-on, with a heart full of love and a mind open to change.

Key Takeaways:

1. Sensory Relief: The lockdown period provided a break from the sensory overload typically experienced in crowded places and busy schedules, leading to a calmer and more focused state of mind.

2. Flexible Routine: The ability to create a personalized, flexible daily routine during lockdown allowed for better management of energy levels and a healthier balance between personal and family time.

3. Deepened Family Connections: With external activities paused, the family had the opportunity to connect more deeply, engaging in shared activities and meaningful conversations that might have been overlooked in a busier life.

4. Navigating Challenges: While lockdown presented challenges, particularly in managing remote schooling alongside work, it also fostered creativity and strengthened advocacy for the needs of both the mother and her children.

5. Personal Growth: The lockdown period was a time of unexpected personal growth, leading to a greater understanding and acceptance of neurodivergence as a different way of experiencing the world rather than a hindrance.

Glossary:

1. Neurodivergent: A term used to describe individuals whose neurological development and functioning differ from what is considered typical, including conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia.

2. Sensory Overload: A condition where the brain receives more sensory input (such as sound, light, or touch) than it can process, often leading to feelings of overwhelm and stress.

3. Burnout: A state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, often experienced by neurodivergent individuals when they cannot manage their energy levels effectively.

4. Advocacy: The act of supporting or arguing for a cause or policy, in this case, advocating for the needs of both the neurodivergent parent and her children.

5. Personal Growth: The process of developing and improving oneself, often through facing and overcoming challenges, leading to greater self-awareness and understanding.