It's an incredibly isolating feeling to know deep down that your brain works differently, especially when you're also juggling the immense responsibilities of motherhood. When I said I was 'raw dogging life and motherhood,' it truly encapsulates the sheer grit and often silent struggle of navigating daily existence without the formal support or understanding that a diagnosis can bring. Imagine feeling constantly overwhelmed by sensory input, struggling with executive dysfunction, or experiencing intense emotional dysregulation, all while trying to keep tiny humans alive and thriving. It's like trying to build a house with no blueprint, no proper tools, and constantly feeling like you're one step behind everyone else. The question of 'How did you get your diagnosis? What steps did you take?' is one I get often, and honestly, it’s a journey filled with hurdles. For me, it felt like starting from scratch multiple times. When my previous primary care provider closed, I had to completely restart with a new doctor, re-explaining my entire medical history and my suspicions about AudHD. This process alone can be exhausting for anyone, let alone someone who already struggles with communication or self-advocacy due to neurodivergence. My first step was finding a primary care doctor who was open-minded and willing to listen. I specifically looked for practices that mentioned mental health integration or a holistic approach. Once I found a doctor I felt comfortable with, I clearly articulated my symptoms and why I suspected I might be autistic and/or ADHD. I wrote down a list of my experiences, dating back to childhood, because sometimes in the moment, it's hard to remember everything. This helped ensure I covered all my bases. From there, the next crucial step is getting a referral to a specialist. This can be a neuropsychologist or a psychiatrist who specializes in adult neurodevelopmental disorders. Be prepared for potentially long waiting lists and the possibility of having to call multiple places. It's a marathon, not a sprint. During this waiting period, I've had to develop my own coping mechanisms. Things like using noise-canceling headphones, creating visual schedules, setting timers for every task, and building in 'rest days' where I allow myself to just exist without expectations, have been life-savers. For those of us 'raw dogging' it without a formal diagnosis, remember that self-knowledge and self-compassion are paramount. Researching neurodivergent experiences, connecting with online communities (like #audhd, #neurodivergent, #actuallyautistic on Lemon8!), and implementing strategies that work for your brain can be incredibly validating and helpful, even without official paperwork. You're not alone in this journey, and every small step you take towards understanding yourself better is a huge win. Keep asking questions, keep advocating for yourself, and know that your experiences are valid.