The Impact of a Recent Autism Diagnosis with Kristin Walker

Dr Mary talks with Kirsten Walker of MHNRN about her late diagnosis of Autism. The impact it has had on her family.

MHNRN | Apple Podcasts | Spreaker | Episode #18

The Impact of a Recent Autism Diagnosis with Kristin Walker

Dr Mary speaks with Kristin Sunanta Walker about her recent diagnosis with autism and how it has impacted her life. 

Kristin Sunanta Walker shares how her recent autism diagnosis has impacted her life. Discover more on her podcast where she takes part in discussions with mental and behavioral health providers, vendors, volunteers, and consumers on topics that include technology, clinical workflow, HIPAA, Meaningful Use, narcissistic abuse awareness and recovery, animal assisted therapy, and more!

Join Dr. Mary and Kristen in spreading awareness and reducing stigmas. Share your own stories and participate in mental health conversations on our Facebook, Instagram, and Linkedin accounts.

EPISODE NOTES:

Kristen Walker joins Dr. Mary on her podcast to discuss her recent autism diagnosis and how it has reshaped her understanding of herself.

Reflecting on the irony of having run autism-related podcasts without knowing she was autistic, she shares that her diagnosis came after years of childhood trauma and being a “high masker,” leading to a significant disconnect between her mind and body.

Kristen emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and turning what she once saw as negatives into positives. She & Dr Mary discuss how the diagnosis has given her newfound self-esteem and clarity about her life experiences.

Briefly touching on the anger she felt toward those who took advantage of her vulnerabilities, she shares about her ongoing process of forgiveness.

Dr. Mary relates Kristen’s experiences to her own family, especially her son’s challenges with autism, highlighting the difficulty autistic individuals face in discerning people’s true motives. Kristen shares personal stories of encountering danger and the overwhelming sensory overload that can occur in such situations. She also reflects on her past use of antidepressants and how stopping them has allowed her to feel her emotions more fully, aiding in her journey of self-discovery.

Overall, the conversation is a candid exploration of Kristen’s journey toward understanding her autism, the challenges she’s faced, and the growth she’s experienced as a result.

Where to Listen: Available on all major podcasting platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.

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HEY SIS!

As a devoted pediatrician, specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders, my focus is on guiding and supporting families who have received an autism or ADHD diagnosis.

I am a PCCI trained life and leadership coach.

– Dr Mary