Chronically Illing Out | E25 - Social Work & Creativity

In this episode of Chronically Illing Out, the hosts welcome Fiona Bridges, a seasoned hospital social worker who only received an adult ADHD diagnosis at age 40. Fiona explains how the late diagnosis reshapes her understanding of long‑standing anxiety, relationship challenges, and workplace over‑compensation. Her perspective highlights the unique intersection of chronic illness, social work, and neurodivergent experiences, offering listeners a rare glimpse into how adult‑onset labeling can alter professional self‑assessment and patient advocacy.

The conversation pivots to medication hesitancy and the fear of losing one’s creative edge. Fiona recounts an accidental Focalin dose that temporarily lifted her stress, reinforcing her belief that ADHD can act as a “superpower” when channeled through hyperfocus. She describes marathon macrame sessions and writing sprints, emphasizing the necessity of scheduled breaks to prevent burnout. This dialogue underscores how structured creativity can boost productivity for neurodivergent professionals while also illustrating the delicate balance between stimulant benefits and potential side effects.

Finally, Fiona reveals why she wears a mask during virtual appearances: to safeguard anonymity while building a Substack blog and a forthcoming book. The mask becomes a symbol of privacy in a digital age where personal narratives intersect with professional credibility. The hosts reinforce their disclaimer, reminding listeners they are not medical providers and urging anyone in crisis to contact 988. By blending personal storytelling with practical mental‑health guidance, the episode offers business leaders actionable insights on supporting neurodiverse teams, fostering creative coping strategies, and respecting privacy in online spaces.