AuDHD Self-Esteem and Imposter Syndrome: What Helps Me When I Spiral

Self-esteem has been a complicated one for me as an AuDHD adult (autism + ADHD). I can be confident and capable in certain areas—and then hit a wall in others and immediately start wondering, “What is wrong with me? Why can’t I do the thing?”
In this episode, I’m sharing what I’ve learned about how AuDHD can impact self-esteem for me—especially on the other side of diagnosis—along with what I try when I feel a spiral coming on. I talk about internalized ableism and masking, imposter syndrome at work, what it looks like when my body knows I’m overwhelmed before I do (alexithymia), and how I anchor back to what I know is true.
This isn’t a “you should” episode. It’s me being honest about what it feels like in my brain—and what I’m experimenting with to build self-trust.
Resources mentioned
• Neurodivergent Insights glossary (alexithymia): neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergent-insi…

• Self-Care Activities for Autistic People card deck (Dr. Megan Anna Neff): bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507225066

Show notes bullets (for apps that surface these):
• AuDHD and why it can feel “not quite ADHD, not quite autism”

• Strengths vs. struggles and the imposter syndrome gap

• “A different way in” — reframing walls without self-blame

• Support without shame (reducing steps, ordering takeout when needed)

• Alexithymia + body cues + spiraling thoughts

• Anchoring to what I know is true + a 20–22 minute reset

• Practicing pride: “take the win”