About Running:
About Neurodivergence:
Neurodivergent minds process information differently. There are numerous further definitions and sub-categories of neurodivergent types.
In the modern world the differences between neurodivergent and neurotypical operating systems can lead to communication challenges that can bring about stress, anxiety and other mental health conditions.
There are treatments to support neurodivergent people including pills and skills, and regular excercise is one of the lifestyle factors that can help with symptom management as well as bringing about social connection, a sense of wellbeing, and offering the chance to establish a consistent routine and work towards low pressure yet tangible personal goals.
About RunDHD:
RunDHD has been created to help create a central resource for information related to running and offer strategies to reduce or remove additional barriers to participation that Neurodivergent people may encounter. This will be done through providing information, case studies, signposting, and community links. It is very text heavy at present as I haven't got any pictures yet. Stock photo's may come to the rescue for a while. The content will hopefully grow over time. I wanted to get someting out there, then gradually add to it as more things spring to mind. That's my preferred way of working. If you have lived experience of maintaining a running habit with a neurodivergent diagnosis, or any ideas for information to add, or things to feature then please let me know via the email address below.
About Me:
Diagnosed with ADHD in 2023, awaiting likely Autism diagnosis. A runner since 2003, when in the January I impulsively agreed to run the London Marathon that April. It wasn't the best entry route and wasn't pretty on the day but I got around and after a short break to recover I thought I'd carry on the routine. An Autumn Half-Marathon that year went well and prompted me to seek out one of my local running clubs.
Running with others in a club setting helped introduce me to more local road racing fixtures as well as the Cross Country league, regional and national club relays and more. Through some early injuries I also discovered cycling and swimming which distracted me a bit for a few years although the core winter activity of Cross Country league has remained in my programme throughout.
Fast forward to 2024, I'm a run leader and coach qualified via England Atlhetics, and still an active runner in age group competition in the 45+ category. I occasionally lead run groups to support my local club weekly social run night, plus have recently begun supporting a new Couch to 5km group supporting appx 20 local beginners as they embark on their running journey.