Thriving, Not Surviving: RSD, Burnout and Gentle ADHD Workarounds with Helen Valentino

Today, I'm delighted to be joined by Helen Valentino, a late, diagnosed ADHD shamanic practitioner, cacao ceremony facilitator, and podcast host. It's such a pleasure to have Helen with me today. If you've experienced ADHD burnout, anxiety or struggled when your child is dysregulated and you want to better understand anxiety and neuro diversity. These conversations are for you, and remember, it always starts with knowing yourself and building the version of you that your child needs most. Let's dive in. EPISODE REVEALS Understanding your own ADHD and nervous system is the foundation. It is also excellent preparation for parenting and supporting neurodivergent children. Late diagnosis can transform a lifetime of shame into self‑acceptance, especially when traits have been weaponised against you. For Helen it was a revelation. Tiny practical tools - alarms, trackers, routines and carefully chosen words—help forgetful, fast brains to feel safer and more in control. Leaning on alcohol or drugs to numb the pain doesn´t work. Replace numbing strategies with therapy, spiritual practice, and supportive community, Self‑talk is medicine: using humour and Helen´s “control‑alt‑delete” method reframes mistakes without triggering more anxiety or shutdown. Words are far more powerful than we realise. Nature, ritual, and meditation can slow a whirlwind ADHD brain just enough to notice patterns and choose kinder responses next time. BEST MOMENTS "Words are really powerful … we use them to hurt people. We use them to make people feel better." "When you say negative things, you're just reinforcing the negative. If you say positive things, you're reinforcing the positive things." "When we go through these challenging times, is when we grow the most." “I can get half an hour's work done in 10 minutes. So, I don't want to lose that. It's becoming aware of where neurodivergence is as helpful or practical.” ABOUT THE GUEST www.inspiredhealing.co.uk WhatsApp 07971 798 462 Thriving not surviving podcast - https://shows.acast.com/thriving-not-surviving RESOURCES The Mandela Effect Book 1 - https://amzn.eu/d/0eiZdh7l Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CLIFF´S SERVICES Are you struggling with anxiety and want support from someone who has been there and come out the other side? - Message Cliff here and take advantage of his founding members offer: https://m.me/cliff.kilmister Are you feeling overwhelmed with EHCP paperwork or are you stuck? Cliff, who has personally been through the process offers body-doubling and step-by-step support. You can contact him here - https://m.me/cliff.kilmister CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/