Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen

I find myself writing this blog just minutes after meeting with my psychiatrist. I expressed to her that I'd recently been feeling frustrated because I'm struggling to manage my learning disabilities (orthographic dyslexia and ADD). Her immediate response was "Kate, neurodiversity is in, you should own that sh*t." So, if anyone asks why I have found a sudden comfort in blogging and discussing my neurodiversity, it's because my psychiatrist said so.

Photo by: thebutlercollegian.com

But on an actually serious note, I guess dyslexia is cool? However, before you ask the question, no it does not give me the same superpowers as seen in Percy Jackson.

I was diagnosed with a subtype of dyslexia in fifth grade called orthographic dyslexia. Essentially, my brain processes information in a "unique" sequence which causes me to misspell, misread and mispronounce words and sentences. Although my subtype of dyslexia does not help me unravel the mysterious meaning of Greek phrases and names, it does give me my own "superpower" in a unique way. At times, my inability to comprehend or spell words and sentences is quite an inconvenience, but it also allows me to see things from a different perspective and think differently.

Gif by: getyarn.com

The ability to think differently and think outside of the box places me in a unique position to address challenges in a way that others typically would not. I used to think my dyslexia would stunt my chances of succeeding in school or would prevent me from achieving my goals. However, I've spent so much time figuring out creative workarounds in my academics and everyday life that I now realize the biggest strength of being neurodivergent is that in itself: the ability to think differently compared to neurotypical people.

For example, although reading might not be one of my strong suits, I thrive in conversation and love making meaningful connections with people. I have a strong memory for stories and can recall facts as if I'm pulling from a storybook rather than just as a list of random data. Also, because I “think differently” I am especially good at bringing together information and resources from different areas to make new connections. And, although I am guilty of the occasional daydream, I actually have an intuitive approach to problem-solving that just appears like I'm daydreaming at times.

I’ve always been an empathetic person. I love people. I love to love, and I love to feel all my feelings.

Recently, I’ve learned that my heightened empathy is a result of my brain being wired differently, and I love that about myself. So, this is my official thank you letter to my dyslexia; I wouldn't be who I am without you, and I am eternally grateful for your constant presence in my life.

Love Always,

Kate