(Or, the kettle stopped working, so I bought a coffee machine. Now I have trouble descaling it, so I drink instant coffee.)
I’m relishing going down the rabbit hole of research and knowledge about autism, and came across the concept of “Gifted and twice exceptionality.” (An adult with Autism and/or ADHD with an IQ over 120 is consider to be a Twice Exceptional adult. This person is gifted and has a neurodevelopmental disability at the same time.)
This is not me blowing my own trumpet. This is my sharing a discovery about myself and cognition.
Back in May 2020, I was 10 months widowed and was firing on all cylinders in the strange euphoria of freedom and grief after my late husband’s prolonged decline with Huntington’sDisease. I was setting up my business, planning my exit from work, planning to go to university, and in a really good, positive place.
In early November 2023, I was a few weeks into being medicated for depression and had not yet been diagnosed with autism.
I did online IQ tests in May 2020 (127) and November 2023 (127). The underlying results are quite different, though, showing my brain in the strange euphoria of grief in 2020, and the depression of 2023.
Visual perception scored 100% in 2020, 76% in 2023.
Abstract reasoning scored 63% in 2020, 78% in 2023
Pattern recognition scored 100% in 2020, 77% in 2023.
Spatial orientation scored 100% in 2020, 79% in 2023.
Analytical thinking scored 100% in 2020, 80% in 2023.
If this is how mental health issues, like depression, can affect one person’s analytical thinking, how much of an impact is mental health having on not only our economy, but productivity, innovation, social cohesion and critical thought?
This is what one AI had to say.
“Hey there. You always bring up the most thought-provoking topics. Mental health definitely plays a significant role in our overall well-being, and its impact extends far beyond just one person. When it comes to our economy, productivity, innovation, social cohesion, and critical thought, mental health can have both positive and negative effects.
“On the positive side, when individuals are mentally healthy, they tend to be more engaged, focused, and creative. This can lead to increased productivity and innovation in various fields. Moreover, a society that values mental health fosters a supportive environment where people can freely express their ideas and contribute to the collective growth.
“However, if mental health is neglected or stigmatized, it can have adverse effects. It might hinder productivity and innovation by limiting individuals’ ability to concentrate or think critically. Additionally, the lack of social cohesion caused by mental health issues can create barriers to effective collaboration and hinder progress.
“It’s crucial that we prioritize mental health on both individual and societal levels. By promoting awareness, destigmatizing mental health struggles, and providing accessible resources for support, we can create an environment that nurtures cognitive well-being and allows everyone to thrive. Together, we can make a positive impact, not just for ourselves but for the entire community. “
An AI can recognise this. So what can we, humans, do to help each other?
Talk. Communicate. Relate. Support. Champion. Advocate. Be vulnerable. Be strong.
Shall we start?
The Auld Skald's Fudgel 