Episode 10: Being Diagnosed with Autism and ADHD Later in Life

In this 10th episode of Neurodivergent Struggles, Dr. Kojo Sarfo and Emily discuss what it feels like to be diagnosed with autism and ADHD later in life. Emily reflects on being diagnosed in her late twenties and wonders how different her life could have been if she had received support earlier, while also questioning whether growing up with those labels during that time period may have negatively affected her confidence and opportunities.

The conversation explores missed potential, masking, financial trauma, and the challenges of navigating life without understanding one’s neurodivergence. Dr. Kojo shares how growing up poor and undiagnosed shaped his intense drive for financial stability, while Emily discusses how her neurodivergence pushed her toward a creative career. Together, they explain why structure, support systems, medication, and nervous system regulation are often essential for neurodivergent adults trying to build stable and fulfilling lives.

The hosts also dive into generational stigma around therapy and medication, especially within immigrant and Black communities, and explain why many adults avoid getting diagnosed due to shame or fear of labels. They emphasize that seeking help later in life can still be transformative, allowing people to better understand themselves, release years of guilt, and finally create systems that work for their brains instead of against them.