Category

Comorbidity

Before I Catastrophize, I Pause and Reflect By, Brian

By Comorbidity, Myths & Misconceptions, Overcoming Obstacles, Success Stories
Living with NVLD and ADHD can feel overwhelming—especially when executive functioning makes time management, organization, and flexibility so hard. But before I let myself spiral into frustration or fear, I remind myself of something important: the information I’ve learned about NVLD and ADHD is a tool, not a sentence.
Understanding how my brain works gives me clarity and direction. It helps me create strategies that fit me—not what others expect. I’ve started to use this knowledge to advocate for myself in school, in work, and in daily life. I’m learning to build routines that support my needs and set goals I can actually reach.
I remind myself that awareness is progress. I’m not failing—I’m adapting. I don’t have to catastrophize every challenge when I’m actively doing the work to understand myself and grow. My path might be different, but it’s still valid—and I’m proud of how far I’ve come.
I’m learning to offer myself compassion, not criticism. And I choose to keep moving forward—one informed, empowered step at a time.

Brian

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Similar yet Different: Personal Autonomy, Autism Spectrum and NVLD, Benjamin Meyer, LCSW

By Comorbidity, Experts Blog

Neurodiversity has increased my knowledge and understanding of the many overlaps between different diagnoses. Perhaps the hardest to distinguish are NVLD and autism. Their similarities should be appreciated, and people can identify with both. I also agree with efforts to dismantle a pernicious hierarchical structure that delineates between the supposed “higher functioning” labels, such as the now-defunct Asperger Syndrome, and autism. I can understand the concern that differentiating NVLD from autism could create a category of people who are “not quite autistic,” reinforcing the assumption that there is something “lower functioning” about autism. However, advocating for NVLD as a distinct diagnosis is not about creating an “autism light”; it is about recognizing a label and identity that truly resonate for many people who for too long have been invisible in the learning disability, mental health, and even neurodiversity nomenclature. It is about respect, being counted, and the autonomy to choose one’s identity. I welcome those with NVLD embracing autism if it feels right for them, but forcing it on us is an act of identity erasure. Read More