For as long as she can remember, Naina, 17, has been passionate about physics and maths. With her quiet, studious, and compliant nature, she was beloved by her teachers. However, as she entered her teenage years, Naina found it difficult to make friends. She couldn’t understand why many girls were so focused on fashion and boys—topics that felt dull to her.
At the age of 13, Naina was diagnosed with Autism and ADHD (AuDHD) at Sethu. Working closely with her parents and the professionals at Sethu, Naina learned more about her neurodivergence. Through self-reflection and completing questionnaires, she discovered that her quieter nature allowed her to be an excellent listener, and her classmates would often confide in her.
While Naina was initially hesitant to share her diagnosis with her friends, fearing it might make her seem “weird,” her decision was respected. As time went on, the process of self-awareness continued, and Naina’s experiences were validated.
Naina went on to perform well in her Std 12 exams. With a desire to experience life away from home, she decided to apply to a University in Bangalore that offered an inclusive learning environment. She also made the choice to disclose her AuDHD diagnosis, believing it would improve her chances of admission. Her strategy paid off, and she was accepted!
Naina has now found herself surrounded by other neurodivergent students, a community where she truly felt like she belonged. Naina continues to explore her options, making decisions that align with her needs and goals. She’s well on her path to self-determination, and her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of support, self-awareness, and embracing who you are.