The Reflections of a Neuro Diverse Nurse...1

Reflection: The Journey to Arête Health and Wellness

Description

Since graduating from the University of Lancashire, I have navigated a challenging season—from managing severe dental pain and marathon training to launching my own business. My mission is to use exercise as a therapeutic medium to support those living with chronic conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and metabolic syndrome. This reflection explores the challenges and coping strategies involved in building this practice as a neurodivergent nurse.

Feelings

Discussing my feelings is an intrapersonal challenge; my neurodivergence means I process the world with a depth and intensity that requires deliberate "translation" into the traditional clinical language expected of a nurse. In balancing multiple roles, I must be vigilant in managing both my expectations and my environment. In business, I understand intellectually that results take time, yet my brain often demands the opposite. This tension can lead to intense anxiety or frustration when things go awry. It is critical for those on the spectrum to speak up and seek peer support when navigating these hurdles.

Evaluation

Launching this business has been a significant challenge, both personally and financially. From early morning tabletop sales to increase funding, to the exhaustive hours spent designing this website, my brand identity, and clinical collaborations—all while navigating the complexities of Universal Credit and PIP. However, by liaising with the DWP and other government departments, I have secured vital "small wins." These include community engagement, interest from media outlets, and a partnership with one of the world's leading military charities.

I am deeply grateful for the funding and support provided by the Royal British Legion, the RAF Benevolent Fund, The Poppy Factory, and the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (10669 Lodge). Without their support, establishing this foundation would have been significantly more difficult. Furthermore, I have had to balance this growth while supporting the wellbeing of immediate family and a close friend. Navigating these personal responsibilities alongside a business launch has been demanding, but the outlook remains positive.

Analysis

Standard 1.1: Upholding the dignity of those with chronic conditions.

A core element of my practise is addressing the lack of specilist exercise knowledge within traditional healthcare. I have identified venues where I can apply my expertise to help indivduals make informed lifestyle choices regarding their health. Structured education and lifestyle interventions regarding their health. Structured education and lifestyle interventions have been shown in research (Thorn, et al 2020), to support managment of Type 2 Diabetes. This evidence-based approach is further reinforced by NICE Guidleines (NG 28, CG 181) lifestyle interventions, an Physical Activity in Adults (PH44) forming the backbone of my Nurse led guidance.

Standard 19.2: Taking responsibility for my own health and wellbeing. The NMC Code (2018) requires nurses to be "fit to practise"; neglecting one's own health puts both the clinician and the patient at risk. Consequently, I have implemented a Reasonable Adjustment Plan to manage fatigue and neurodivergent triggers, in conjunction with the Autism Act 2009 and the Care Act 2010.

I have engaged with the Access to Work scheme, which has provided an excellent framework for my return to employment. Their support includes specialist equipment such as noise-cancelling headphones to reduce sensory overload and laptop software to assist my workflow. I also utilize a "plan of action" to manage hyperfocus, ensuring I take regular breaks, maintain hydration, and prioritize nutrition—simple tasks that are easily overlooked when I am deeply immersed in my work.

Conclusion

Having a Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD) does not diminish my ability to nurse. The growing recognition of neurodivergent professionals within the NHS is a positive shift, offering improved peer support and self-understanding. While more progress is needed, the support available today is "night and day" compared to a decade ago. I view my autism as a professional strength; it allows me to understand patient experiences deeply and identify clinical details others might overlook. As the comedian Fern Brady aptly put it: "The best way to describe the autistic brain is your brain is an Android, whereas mine is an Apple!" (The Last Leg, 2022).

Action Plan

Currently, I have the following planned:

• Starting my MSc Disaster Medicine (September 2026)

• Completing my FREC 3

• Completing my Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)

• Developing my business further by gaining patients

• Completing the Battle Back Centre Course (March 2026)

References:

• British Medical Journal (BMJ). (2020). The role of lifestyle intervention in Type 2 Diabetes remission. (Ref: Thorn, J. et al).

  
  

• NICE. (2022). Type 2 diabetes in adults: management. [NG28]. London: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.

  
  

• NICE. (2023). Cardiovascular disease: risk assessment and reduction, including lipid modification. [CG181]. London: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.

  
  

• NICE. (2013). Physical activity: brief advice for adults in primary care. [PH44]. London: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.

  
  

• NMC. (2018). The Code: Professional standards of practice and behaviour for nurses, midwives and nursing associates. London: Nursing and Midwifery Council.

  
  

• UK Government. (2009). Autism Act 2009. London: The Stationery Office.

  
  

• UK Government. (2010). Care Act 2010. London: The Stationery Office.