In part 2 of our neurodivergence spotlight, we’re joined by Esther Fidock, clinical educator and founder of The Neuro Nurture Collective, for a deeper conversation about what it means to be neuro-affirming.

Esther explores how young people experience neurodivergence in everyday life; unpacking terms like masking and shares practical ways to support neurodivergent young people at school, work, and in friendships.

Whether you’re neurodivergent yourself, supporting someone who is, or just curious about how to be a better ally, this episode is full of insight and hope.

headspace resources:

• headspace – what is autism?
• headspace – what is ADHD?
• headspace Centres – find your local service
• headspace Work & Study – free, inclusive career and study support

Neurodivergent Resources:

• The Neuro Nurture Collective – Assessments and therapy: https://www.theneuronurturecollective.com/
• Reframing Autism – Education, advocacy and community: https://reframingautism.org.au/
• ADHD Australia – Awareness and practical support: https://www.adhdaustralia.org.au/
• Amaze – Autism support and inclusion resources: https://www.amaze.org.au/
• Apps for executive functioning skills: https://adayinourshoes.com/apps-executive-functioning-adults-students/
• The Year I Met My Brain – Matilda Boseley
• The ADHD Brain Buddy – Matilda Boseley
• Colour Me Neurospicy
• Neurodivergent Burnout: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/autism-and-adhd-burnout/srsltid=AfmBOoqgCAGnM2mjZMIN8GHsOuOAyyHEzdhmt2FeBvQ-8RRjbmvaJ1CT
• Spoon Theory: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/the-neurodivergent-spoon-drawer-spoon-theory-foradhders-and-autists/srsltid=AfmBOop0XFRk3swBFezBd1nZNP4J-yqMkHLBogBzb6AeVnp5xgHHdbLR

Watch our video podcast now on YouTube or via Spotify,Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast platform.

This episode was created by Ally (Senior Community Engagement Officer, headspace Adelaide) and Esther Fidock (clinical educator and founder of The Neuro Nurture Collective).

To learn more about headspace centres, visit: https://headspace.org.au/ or connect with your local headspace centre on social media.

Led by headspace Adelaide, in partnership with headspaceEdinburgh North, headspace Marion, headspace Onkaparinga and Sonder. The podcast project is brought to you by our centre’s Youth Reference Groups. It is a headspace Adelaide Youth Reference Group initiative.

Produced by Shane (Youth Services Community Engagement Team Leader, Sonder) and Ally (Senior Community Engagement Officer, headspace Adelaide), recorded and edited by Rory at Podbooth Studios, Adelaide.

Recorded on Kaurna Country. Acknowledgment of country voiced by Yanni (Aboriginal Peer Support Worker, headspace Adelaide).

If you or someone you know is in need of crisis or suicide prevention support, please contact:

• Lifeline on 13 11 14 (Australia)

• Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 (Australia)

Disclaimer: Views and opinions expressed in this podcastare from young people and staff involved at Sonder’s headspace centres, or are guests invited to be interviewed. Information provided should not be taken as clinical advice.