I’ve built a great career, have a beautiful family, amazing friends, but after many years of masking, the burnout was real. My non neurotypical brain was asking for a break!

In autumn 2023, my mental health was low, I had identified some key triggers, yet I couldn’t quite work out the “what was needed” in order to move forward and manage this.

I changed my freelance/contract work and focused on a new programme of activity. Introduced changes in my volunteering capacity which reduced risk to my mental health. Focused time on family away days to recharge. But something just wasn’t hitting the spot. 

After reflecting in the mirror. Literally. I realised that whilst my mental health wasn’t where it needed to be, neither was my physical health, and surely that wasn’t helping. I did the usual “let’s start the gym in January “new year new me” but this time, being inspired by a friend’s transformation, I signed up with an online PT. Best decision ever.

After some time, I realised a number of the things I struggled with on a daily basis seemed to be a lot more manageable. For example, my mood was generally elevated, noticing the opposite on days that I had missed a gym session.

I did some further research and found that regular exercise does have a positive effect on the brain. Increasing dopamine levels and other neurotransmitters to help alleviate symptoms of ADHD, helping improve executive functions.   

Fast forward to now. I’m the healthiest I’ve ever been physically and mentally. The gym has given me and my mind time to focus on me.

Whilst I fully appreciate that my brain still has some catching up to do. Like many millennials, we’re now slowly realising that for most of our lives, we’ve been coasting along with little support for autism and ADHD. After all, who else was put in “special class” at school because you couldn’t spell? Or found the need for “extra help” when it came to 2x2? 

Only recently we start to see the traits of non-neurotypical minds. And with the thanks to folk who bravely expose their highs, lows, and coping mechanisms on social media. We begin to learn more about ourselves, our triggers, and the many different ways in which to learn how to lift the mask we hide behind. 

I sat on a panel a while back, sharing how Northern Pride and Curious Arts are working to make the north east tourism and hospitality sector warm, welcoming and inclusive. On the panel was a person from North East Autism Society. 

I was incredibly impressed with the work they’re doing across the north east to support people with ADHD and autism. Their sensory bags in tourism locations like the Centre for Life, Dalton Park and the region’s museums along with their training, and company certification was impressive. And great to see the challenge of Autism Action, not just “awareness” or “acceptance”.

Inspired by these folk, I’ve decided to continue my own personal journey of self care, physical and mental health, to benefit others and ensure that those with autism and ADHD get the support they need to thrive in all aspects of living! 

So…On September 7th 2025, I’ll run the Great North Run for North East Autism Society raising vital funds to support their work. 💙🧡

Huge list of people I want to thank. First up Kieran for inspiring me in the first place to start the health kick.

Kyle for agreeing to be my PT, my Jiminy Cricket to my “yes I have tracked calories and got my steps in” Pinocchio.

To Mick and Alice for supporting my decision to take a step away from Generator and becoming lifelong friends and advocates of my work.

My Northern Pride family for their continued support and backing, especially Meg who’s created space for me to avoid the toxic environment of social media.

To someone I look up to, friend  and colleague (boss) for giving me time, space and safe haven when I’ve needed it over the years. Cheers Phil. 

And finally, most importantly, my family. Richard and Lex. I’d be lost without you both. Keeping me honest and true to myself. Quirks and all. Belly laughs are the true medicine of life.