Ep 306: Why I got assessed for autism and ADHD as a Highly Sensitive Person

Diagnosed with Autism and ADHD at 42: My Story as a Highly Sensitive Person who also happens to be AuDHD.

In this episode of SelfKind – a podcast for Highly Sensitive and Neurodivergent People – I'm sharing a deeply personal story: my experience of being assessed and diagnosed with autism and ADHD (also known as AuDHD) at the age of 42. As someone who has long identified as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), I’m unpacking what led me to seek assessment, how it felt to be diagnosed later in life, and why understanding your sensitivity – no matter the label – truly matters.

Have you ever wondered if your high sensitivity could be something more? Are you questioning whether neurodivergence might be part of your story too? This episode is for you.

⭐️ About your host, Erica Webb:
 Erica Webb is a registered counsellor, somatic exercise coach, and highly sensitive person. Recently diagnosed as autistic and ADHD, she supports other highly sensitive and neurodivergent people to discover their unique superpowers and more confidently navigate the tricky bits of being sensitive in an often insensitive world.

🎙️ About the Podcast, SelfKind:
 This is a podcast for Highly Sensitive and neurodivergent folks who want to explore their sensitivity with more compassion and kindness. We explore themes like self-compassion, nervous system regulation, mindful movement, and the lived experience of being a highly sensitive person, autistic, ADHD, or all three.

As your host, I bring my lived experience as a Highly Sensitive and neurodivergent woman, alongside my work as a counsellor and coach. I know what it’s like to feel like things are too loud, too bright, too much – and I’m here to help you honour your sensitivity as a strength.

From mindfulness to somatic tools, storytelling to self-inquiry, this podcast is your space to feel seen and supported.

✨ In this episode:

• Why I sought out an autism and ADHD assessment as a Highly Sensitive Person
• What it’s like to be diagnosed with AuDHD later in life
• How being a parent and donor-conceived person played a role in my choice to be assessed
• The differences between high sensitivity and neurodivergence
• The importance of taking your sensitivity seriously

Whether you’re highly sensitive, autistic, ADHD, AuDHD, or just exploring what fits – you are so welcome here.

👉 Connect with Erica:
 Website: https://www.ericawebb.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericawebb_selfkind

💛 Want to work with me?
 Learn more here: https://www.ericawebb.com.au/work-with-me

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe if this episode resonates with you. Share it with someone who might need to hear it, too.

The content I share on this platform is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While I am a qualified counsellor, yoga teacher, and somatic coach, the information provided here does not constitute personal counselling, therapy, or a therapeutic relationship.

If you're struggling with your mental health or need personalised support, I encourage you to reach out to a registered professional in your area.

Always take what resonates, leave what doesn’t, and prioritise your wellbeing.