Hannah Daly talks openly about the long path to understanding her brain. Growing up, she knew she experienced the world differently, but dyslexia and dyspraxia seemed to explain enough at the time. It wasnβt until much later that she began to question whether there was more to it.
A period of intense physical and cognitive symptoms during perimenopause became a turning point. As her ability to cope and mask began to unravel, it led her to seek answers - and eventually to diagnoses of ADHD and autism. What follows is a process of looking back, reinterpreting her life, and starting to understand herself in a completely different way.
Growing up feeling different without the language for it
Hannah describes always experiencing the world differently, but early diagnoses of dyslexia and dyspraxia seemed to explain enough at the time.
Masking and the effort of trying to fit in
Much of her life was shaped by adapting to environments and expectations, often suppressing her own needs.
Perimenopause as a turning point
A sudden wave of physical and cognitive symptoms made it harder to cope and brought everything to the surface.
The link between hormones and neurodivergence
Hormonal changes intensified underlying ADHD and autistic traits, including memory issues, overwhelm, and sensory sensitivity.
Late diagnosis of ADHD and autism
Through seeking answers, Hannah went through an assessment process and received both diagnoses.
Looking back with new understanding
She began to reinterpret her life, recognising patterns that had always been there but previously misunderstood.
Unmasking and redefining identity
Diagnosis allowed her to move away from people-pleasing and start living more in line with who she is.
Understanding your brain as self-compassion
Learning how her brain works helped her develop better strategies and a more supportive way of living.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
A neurodevelopmental condition affecting attention, impulse control, and energy regulation.
Autism (Autism Spectrum Condition)
A lifelong condition affecting communication, sensory processing, and social interaction.
A hormonal transition phase that can impact mood, cognition, and physical wellbeing.
ADHD, Autism, and Hormones (Emerging Research Area)
Growing research explores how hormonal changes can intensify neurodivergent traits.
ADHD Ireland - Support & U-Map Programme
Resources and support for ADHD in Ireland.
Autism and Menopause (Further Reading)
Explores how menopause can affect autistic individuals.
Odd Girl Out - Laura James (Book)
A memoir about late autism diagnosis.
Dr Mary Doherty - Autistic Doctors International
Advocate and founder supporting autistic professionals.
Breathing and cold exposure techniques.
00:00 β Asking for accommodations and sensory needs
02:30 β What masking looks like in everyday life
04:00 β Growing up feeling βotheredβ
07:00 β Finding purpose through occupational therapy
10:30 β Writing her book and sharing her story
11:30 β Sudden health episode and onset of symptoms
14:30 β Perimenopause, HRT, and turning point
17:00 β ADHD and autism diagnosis
19:00 β Reframing her life after diagnosis
23:00 β Sensory needs, routines, and daily coping
27:00 β ADHD traits, focus, and conversation style
31:00 β Energy, burnout, and pacing
36:00 β Managing overwhelm and regulation strategies
42:00 β Sleep, routines, and nervous system support
47:00 β Parenting, relationships, and support systems
52:00 β Medication, exercise, and what helps
56:00 β Final reflections and helping other women
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