Steve Rothwell on creating a Meaningful Life with Neurodiversity

Steve grew up feeling different, always curious and passionate about things his friends didn’t understand. Early on, he developed a love for words and storytelling that set him apart.

As a child, Steve struggled with perfectionism and low self-esteem, not knowing he was neurodiverse. He saw the world differently and often felt isolated and misunderstood in social situations. Misdiagnosed and unsupported, Steve’s challenges with OCD and autism led to difficulty holding down jobs. He found everyday routines overwhelming and missed out on helpful guidance for much of his early adulthood.

In search of solutions, Steve made a desperate decision that resulted in prison time. The experience was harsh and lonely but also shaped his view of compassion and justice. After prison, Steve rebuilt his life from scratch. He leaned on gratitude, patience, and learned the value of resilience, slowly regaining hope and direction amidst ongoing struggles with mental health.

Discovering a passion for travel writing, Steve finally found his voice. Sharing stories became a way to process his experiences, heal, and connect meaningfully with others.

Steve has written about a wide range of topics including adventure travel, aviation and motoring - though his greatest passion has come from writing about overcoming trauma, and suicide prevention. Steve's focus is on describing the experience of depression and PTSD in ways that others recognise and then suggesting thinking strategies to better cope with these states of mind.

Today, Steve helps people stuck in trauma or exclusion. He uses his insights to support others facing hardship, showing that understanding and lived experience truly matter.

The Trauma Timeline Recovery Workbook and Course: www.reliefandhope.life

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We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

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We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

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Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie