In this episode, we explore the emotional ups and downs that often come with dyslexia in adulthood. Those days when everything clicks — clarity, confidence, momentum — can feel incredible. But just as quickly, dyslexic adults can experience sudden drops into overwhelm, withdrawal, and disconnection, often without knowing why.

I share personal experiences of these emotional swings, including common coping mechanisms like hiding, disconnecting, comfort eating, or retreating from the world. We talk about how the dyslexic brain is deeply driven by purpose, and how losing that sense of “why” can trigger those down days.

This episode also touches on the idea that these highs and lows are not personal flaws — they’re a dyslexic trait. I also share an early experiment with 5-HTP, a supplement linked to serotonin and calming the fight-or-flight response, and how it may be helping smooth out emotional extremes.

Most importantly, this episode is about reassurance, awareness, and acceptance — understanding that you’re not broken, you’re wired differently.

Takeaways

• Emotional highs and lows are a common dyslexic trait, not a personal failing

• Dyslexic minds often experience bigger ups and bigger downs than others

• Sudden disconnection, hiding, or withdrawal can be a response to losing purpose

• The dyslexic brain constantly looks for meaning and “why” behind actions

• Down days can feel scary because they often come without a clear reason

• Fight-or-flight and adrenal fatigue are common challenges for dyslexic adults

• Small “calming hacks” can help reduce emotional extremes over time

• Acceptance and awareness are powerful first steps in managing dyslexic emotions

Dyslexia ups and downs, Adult dyslexia emotions, Dyslexic emotional highs and lows, Dyslexia and anxiety, Dyslexic burnout, Dyslexic brain and purpose, Fight or flight dyslexia, Emotional regulation dyslexia, Living with dyslexia, Truth About Dyslexia podcast, ADHD, adults with dyslexia, support for adults.

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In this short and practical episode, we introduce a brand-new Adult Dyslexia Quiz created to help adults reflect on their life experiences and explore whether dyslexia may be part of their story.

Many dyslexia tests focus on childhood traits, often missing the real-world challenges adults face. This simple, mobile-friendly quiz is designed to highlight adult characteristics of dyslexia and encourage clarity, confidence, and self-understanding.

This is an early version and a true community project. We invite you to take the quiz, share it with others, and give honest feedback to help improve it. Whether you’re an adult with dyslexia or a partner of someone who is, this tool is built to spark insight and conversation.

Takeaways

• The Adult Dyslexia Quiz focuses on adult traits, not just childhood symptoms

• It’s simple, quick, and works easily on mobile devices

• The quiz encourages reflection on everyday life experiences

• It’s a work in progress, and community feedback is encouraged

• Designed to help reduce anxiety, build confidence, and create clarity

• Listeners are invited to join the Facebook community and be part of the project

Adult Dyslexia Quiz, Signs of Dyslexia in Adults, Adult Dyslexia Test, Dyslexia Self-Assessment, Dyslexia Awareness, Adult Learning Differences, Dyslexia Support Community, Truth About Dyslexia, Adult Neurodiversity, ADHD, adults with dyslexia, support for adults.

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In this episode, Stephen revisits one of the most popular conversations from The Truth About Dyslexia podcast archive as part of a special six-part replay series. While Stephen takes a well-earned summer break in New Zealand, he’s sharing some of the most listened-to and loved episodes from over the years.

This episode explores mimicking (also known as mirroring) — a behaviour many dyslexic adults unconsciously use to feel safe, accepted, and to “fit in,” especially in work, social, and relationship settings.

Takeaways

• Why mimicking can become a survival strategy for dyslexic adults

• How uncertainty and anxiety can drive people-pleasing behaviours

• The benefits of mimicking (learning new things, building rapport)

• The hidden cost: losing touch with your real identity

• How mirroring can create a disconnect between who you are and who you present to the world Asking the powerful question: “Is this actually me — or is this just keeping me safe?”

Dyslexia and mimicking, mirroring behaviour dyslexia, dyslexic masking, dyslexia coping, strategies, neurodivergent masking, people pleasing dyslexia, dyslexia and identity, dyslexic adults anxiety, fitting in as a dyslexic, dyslexia self awareness, ADHD, adults with dyslexia, support for adults.

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