In this episode of NeuroSpice & Life, late-diagnosed neurodivergent hosts Freya Corboy (alexithymic counsellor) and Hanna Hosking (sexologist) explore sensitivity through a neurodivergent, ADHD-informed lens. We discuss how humans are not innately taught emotional regulation — and how suppressing emotional and sensory needs can create anxiety, burnout, and cumulative emotional and physical strain, particularly for neurodivergent people.

This episode offers an authentic example of two ADHDers communicating through shared ideas. The conversation is non-linear, reflective, and associative — a communication style common in ADHD — where ideas circle, connect, and ultimately return to insight and meaning.

Freya reflects on sensory sensitivity, including food, clothing, and environmental needs, and how attuning to her body and nervous system has supported emotional regulation and reduced overwhelm. Hanna shares her experiences of emotional sensitivity, Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD), and relational patterns, highlighting how minimising emotional needs for others can take a significant toll over time.

Together, we reframe sensitivity as information rather than weakness, and explore why honouring neurodivergent sensory and emotional needs is essential for mental health, self-trust, and long-term wellbeing.

This episode invites listeners to move away from “Why am I so sensitive?” and toward a more compassionate and empowering question: “What is my sensitivity trying to tell me?”

In this episode, we explore: • Neurodivergent emotional and sensory sensitivity • ADHD communication styles and non-linear thinking • Nervous system regulation and emotional awareness • Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) • Emotional regulation and unmet needs • Anxiety, burnout, and chronic overwhelm • Boundaries, self-advocacy, and self-trust

Key concepts & searchable topics: Neurodivergence, ADHD, autism, AuDHD, emotional sensitivity, sensory processing differences, nervous system awareness, RSD, emotional regulation skills, neurodivergent burnout, high masking, late diagnosis, trauma-informed care, mental health and wellbeing.

Who this episode is for: Neurodivergent adults (ADHD, autistic, AuDHD), highly sensitive people, late-identified or high-masking individuals, and anyone learning to honour emotional and sensory needs without minimising themselves for others.

Website: neurospiceandlife.com.au YouTube: @NeuroSpiceandLife Freya (Mumshine): mumshine.com.au Hanna (The Sensologist): thesensologist.com.au

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, or mental-health advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment.